Natural Anti-Aging Treatments for Your Skin
The secret to healthier, younger-looking skin is to nourish your body from within
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Botox is the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure performed. In the year 2003 there were 2,272,080 botox injections performed. The nationwide average of botox injections, per site, in 2005 was $382.00 - although in some areas the cost can go up to $700. Botox toxins cause muscles to be inactive. Therefore, you won't be able to do certain facial expressions.
- A while back I discussed with a doctor client of mine Botox. He was vehemently against this procedure. His words made sense: "It's a TOXIN that paralyzes muscles -- do you know what happens to paralyzed muscles?" He didn't have to explain further. It made sense to me.
Let's explore healthier and more natural approaches.
Natural Anti-Aging Treatments for Your Skin
Cold-water Fish:
Without the omega-3 fatty acids found in cod, mackerel, salmon and tuna, the skin appears dull, dry and scaly. I take 2 tablespoons of lemon-flavored Cod Liver Oil daily and found that if I skip a few days, my lips get really chapped without fail. My reasons for taking cod liver oil were actually for other health benefits and I was surprised to note the effect it had on my skin, until I read the recommendation of adding cold-water fish to your diet in a natural health magazine.
MSM:
MSM helps form a vital connective tissue component and this is best known as a joint supplement. But skin is basically made of the same stuff -- a strong, protein-based substance called collagen. Therefore, it is not surprising that MSM provides cosmetic benefits as well. Collagen contain protein fibers that supports skin cells that hold the skin together. These fibers are not only flexible, but also extremely tough. One reason a child's skin is so soft and smooth is that it is loaded with type III collagen, as we age, the amount of collagen declines.
In addition to younger-looking skin, MSM users reported another "side-effect": reductions in allergy miseries. Scientists discovered that MSM appears to block histamine, the chemical responsible for allergic reactions, from reaching susceptible tissues, such as the mucous membranes ling the nose. Early study results have been promising, with seasonal allergy symptom relief and increased energy levels (Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 4/02).
Click here to see the one that I am using. If you can get that at your local store, I would recommend that one. Alternatively, the link also allows you to order it online. Whatever your preference.
Vitamin A:
Vitamin A is often referred to as the mother of all skin vitamins. This vitamin helps the skin defend against skin damage. It naturally occurs in orange-colored produce: apricots, cantaloupes, carrots, red peppers, pumpkins and sweet potatoes.
Leafy Greens:
Chard, beet tops, kale, mustard greens, parsley and spinach make excellent detoxifying juices. Always buy the freshest produce possible, rejecting anything that shows signs of age. Buy organic whenever possible. Prepare a healthy juice every day for a healthy glow.
- Click here for information on organic foods -- a listing of the most and the least contaminated food items, as well as handling tips.
Vitamin E's Anti-aging Perk:
Vitamin E is a natural free-radical fighter that neutralizes the effects of pollution and protects lipid layers so your skin retains moisture and plumpness, keeping winkles away. It's also been shown to decrease the risk of a heart attack.
- Experts advise a dose of at least 200 IU for therapeutic benefit. Just be sure you are getting alpha-tocopherol, the only one out of eight types of vitamin E that the human body can fully utilize.
- Keep in mind that doses of 1,000 mg (or 1,500 IU) a day or more increases your chances of hemorrhaging. (Source: Natural Solutions Magazine, March 2008)
Goji Berries
Goji, the tiny red Chinese berry is attributed big health benefits, including protecting the skin from the effects of aging. In one stud, scientists found that Goji extract reduced levels of a skin enzyme linked to skin sagging while also promoting the survival of fibroblast - cells that create collagen, the main skin protein - under what the study authors called "suboptimal conditions." Other research suggests that Goji berries, which have been used medicinally in China for centuries, can also help enhance immunity, improve circulation and stave off age-related eye problems (i.e, macular degeneration). (Phytomedicine Volume 12)
- Unprocessed natural Goji berries are best, but Goji juices / extracts are also available at health food stores.
Natural Anti-Aging Treatments for Your Skin
Jamison Starbuck, ND - a naturopathic physician in family practice and a lecturer at the University of Montana - stated that expensive and possibly risky high-tech interventions are not necessary. Healthy, glowing skin at all ages comes from inside. She shared her natural strategies for a youthful skin.
Diet
For optimal skin health, Dr. Starbuck advises following an anti-inflammatory, anti-aging diet. Replace trans fats, saturated fats and processed foods with fresh fruits and vegetables and foods rich in healthy fats (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids), such as walnuts, flaxseed and cold-water fish (wild salmon, sardines, mackerel, cod liver oil etc.). Since an anti-inflammatory diet is believed to improve circulation, you may find that within days of starting to eat this way, the puffiness and dark circles under the eyes begin to diminish.
According to Dr. Starbuck, the more colorful the produce, the richer it is in antioxidants, which help slow the aging process and maintain elasticity in skin and underlying tissue. Keep your kitchen stocked with bright, colorful fruits and veggies like blueberries, strawberries, spinach, carrots and broccoli.
- Also refer above to Healthy Skin Nutrition
Protect Your Skin From the Sun
To shield your skin from the ravages of the sun's ultraviolet rays -- which range from harmless age spots to deadly melanoma -- steer clear of the midday sun. During the spring and summer, when you are outdoors a lot, make the application of sunscreen part of your daily skin care routine. If you live closer to the equator, do this more often. Choose a product that contains zinc oxide to block the sun, as well as the antioxidant vitamins C and E and selenium, since Dr. Starbuck says sunscreens that contain antioxidants are more helpful in preventing skin damage. Use products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and that offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Avoid chemicals and fragrances.
Also, Dr. Starbuck notes that many people believe they can apply sunscreen first thing in the morning and safely bask in the sun for hours. It doesn't work that way. Don't overestimate a sunscreen's ability to protect you from the sun's ultraviolet rays. If you are spending the day at the beach or in the sun, reapply every hour or so.
Kick Bad Habits
Dr. Starbuck's advice...
- Don't smoke or overindulge in alcohol.
- Reduce your exposure to toxic substances such as air pollutants, herbicides and household chemicals including cleaning products. Use common sense and be aware of the environment around you. For example, stay inside as much as possible on smog alert days... avoid all harsh chemical products that cause skin irritation... choose natural alternatives whenever possible.
- Avoid exposing your skin to harsh detergent and antibacterial soaps, instead choosing milder, fragrance-free, chemical-free, natural cleansers. Another thing you can do to reduce the toxic load on your skin is go green in your home. Avoid cleaning products made from toxic ingredients. Personally, I really like the natural, green cleaning products made by Melaleuca.
Exercise for a Firmer Skin Tone
A healthy circulatory system delivers a better supply of blood and oxygen to tissue and skin. Exercise also promotes firm muscles, resulting in less cellulite. The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports recommends at least three 20-minute aerobic workouts a week (e.g., brisk walking, bicycling or swimming) and three 30-minute strength training sessions. Don't forget to drink lots of water when you exercise. Dehydrated skin sags and is more vulnerable to damage from irritants of all kinds.
Use Natural Skin Care Products
The more antioxidants and the fewer chemicals, the better, Dr. Starbuck advises. She recommends simple, fragrance-free, dye-free products, such as good, old-fashioned Ivory soap and naturally based soaps and moisturizers made with cucumber or calendula. For the best effect, use moisturizing creams immediately after bathing, when your skin is better able to absorb them.
Also, she says there is no need to waste money on expensive face creams that make false promises to banish wrinkles. A recent study in Consumer Reports (January 2007) found no difference between pricey products (which can cost literally hundreds of dollars per ounce) at upscale department stores, and down-to-earth, economical drugstore brands. Also, other research shows that skin responds well to topical antioxidants. Choose skin care products that contain antioxidants such as vitamins C, A and E.
Hydrotherapy:
Dr. Starbuck says one of her most relaxing, effective and detoxifying treats is hydrotherapy. She explains that alternating hot and cold tones the body and stimulates blood and oxygen flow. Dr. Starbuck says that intense heat eliminates toxins through the skin, after which a brief plunge in cold water tightens pores, stimulating and invigorating both your skin and your mood. (Caution: This is not recommended for pregnant women or people with vascular problems such as hypertension.) This effect can easily be created in your own home. Just follow up a hot bath or shower with a 30-second cold rinse. This closes pores and brings refreshment and blood flow to skin.
Jamison Starbuck, ND is a naturopathic physician in family practice and a lecturer at the University of Montana, both in Missoula. She is past president of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and a contributing editor to The Alternative Advisor: The Complete Guide to Natural Therapies and Alternative Treatments (TimeLife).
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