A few fine lines, a hint of gray. The normal changes of aging are inevitable. But with skin rejuvenation products, facial treatments that don't involve surgery, and hair care products, there are plenty of options for women over 50 who want to enhance their natural beauty. Time in the sun, smoking, diet, and heredity all have effects that become evident on your skin as you get older. Stress, gravity, and obesity also affect the way skin looks. And as you age, your skin doesn't produce new cells as quickly as it used to. So it gradually becomes less elastic and prone to dryness.
Here are a few simple steps to care for your skin
- Quit smoking. Smoking promotes aging on your skin.
- Just say no to sunbathing and tanning. Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The sun's rays are the strongest then. If you must be outside, wear a protective hat, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and sunglasses. Freckles, age spots, and blotchy complexions are linked to sun exposure.
- Wear sunscreen religiously. Sun damage can result in such changes as fine wrinkles and an uneven skin tone.
- Check your skin often for skin cancer. If there are changes that worry you, call your doctor right away. Older, fair-skinned people are at high risk and must have a yearly check.
- Soothe dry skin. Use a humidifier. Also use moisturizing soaps and lotions. See your doctor if you still have problems.
- Eat right and hydrate. Good nutrition helps the body repair skin. Drinking lots of water helps hydrate skin from the inside out.
- Try anti-aging products. If you're over 40, over-the-counter creams and lotions can help enhance your natural beauty by rejuvenating your skin. Prescription treatments and retinoid creams are also options.
- Know about skin treatments. Injections of Botox or Dysport can ease wrinkles in the upper third of your face. Chemical peels can remove fine lines and smooth skin, especially around the eyes and mouth. Wrinkle fillers can plump up your skin and erase lines. Microdermabrasion erases ultrafine lines, rejuvenates your complexion, and improves skin tone and color. Laser resurfacing can improve sun-damaged skin, scars, and other facial problems.
Your favorite natural beauty tip may be as simple as wearing a radiant smile. Or it may mean using a few products or treatments along the way. Whatever your choice, taking care of yourself is the most beautiful thing of all.