How to Get Youthful Skin

Skin is more than just a covering; it is a barometer that registers the state of our health and reveals the story of our lives. The decline and fall of our epidermis does not become apparent until we pass the 30-year milestone, but it actually begins at birth. Our "perfect" baby skin alters with puberty; undergoes more variations from hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause; then gradually becomes thinner, drier, and less supple as cell functions slow with age. Chronologically, we all grow old at the same rate. Visibly, we age at an individual pace—and it's never too early or late to start improving your skin. Acne attacks more boys than girls during the teenage years, but besets more women than men because oral contraceptives, menstruation, and menopause cause hormone levels to surge and wane.

Pregnancy profoundly affects the skin. For the first five months, increased estrogen production suppresses the natural skin-lubricating oils to make skin drier than normal. Use a mild, non detergent cleanser, a nourishing moisturizer during the day, and apply a rich night cream before retiring. During the latter half of pregnancy, an upswing of progesterone hormones may make skin oilier and more subject to blemishes. Cleanse your skin thoroughly, use an astringent toner, cut back on your moisturizing routine, and guard against the brown splotches of a pregnancy mask by applying a potent sunscreen before venturing forth in daylight.

While waiting for the fountain of perpetual youth to be discovered, you can prolong a youthful appearance if you:

Incorporate more moisturizing in your daily-care routine to compensate for the reduced activity of sweat and sebaceous glands, which causes gradual drying and thinning of the skin. To prevent photo aging by applying a sunscreen and sunning safely. Drink water at least 8 glasses a day.

Exercise regularly to maintain the blood circulation essential for bringing nourishment to the dermal vessels and for carrying off wastes from the skin. Deliberately relax away tension to help prevent "expression lines" in your face and other stress-related skin problems. Get sufficient sleep so your skin can receive its fresh supplies of oxygen and nutrients. Keep your weight fairly constant to avoid the saggy wrinkles that can develop stretched marks. Eat a well-balanced diet to help maintain and rebuild the supportive tissues, and to preserve the visible surface.