20 Nov 10 tips for younger looking skin

Everyone wants younger looking skin. However, skin changes are an inevitable part of growing older. Have you noticed that some people seem to age far quicker than others? I’m quite fortunate that I don’t look my age and I am often asked what my secret is! So here are some of my tips – things that you can do to help yourself and your skin.

• Include oily fish, ginger, turmeric and garlic in your diet. These foods all have anti-inflammatory properties which will reduce redness, swelling and acne. Oily fish is also a natural moisturiser which will help to keep the skin supple.
• Foods that contain vitamin E are rich in antioxidants. They protect our skin (and our entire bodies) from damage. Avocado, almonds, pine nuts and sunflower seeds.
• Supporting the liver will improve digestion and overall immune health. Don’t overeat in general and reduce fatty and processed foods.
• Make sure you are getting enough sleep. If your body does not get enough rest, it cannot rejuvenate itself!
• If you suffer with puffiness, eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis it is really worth checking to see if you have food intolerances or sensitivities.
• Stress management! This may be an obvious one but how many of us actually do it? It always amazes me to see the difference in someone’s face after a Healing session. It quite literally takes years off!
• Are you getting enough fresh air to rejuvenate your system? Inhaling fresh air helps to clear your lungs, increasing the amount of oxygen available to the body. Air quality is particularly good near to water and around trees.
• Ensure you are getting sufficient amounts of the nutrients that we need to stay healthy. As we age our nutrient needs can change. Even after a short illness we can become deficient in key vitamins, so it is a good idea to get to know some of the tell tale signs of deficiencies. If you bruise easily, you may be deficient in vitamin C. Vitamin C and Selenium help us to build collagen which keeps our skin elastic as we age.
• If your skin appears more greasy than normal, you may be deficient in zinc. A Vega test can include vitamin/mineral deficiency testing.
• Choose natural and organic products for your face and body. We have enough chemicals around us already, so why put more onto our skin. There are so many different ranges nowadays that you are guaranteed to find one that suits your budget. Often the glamorous, highly commercialised products are not the most beneficial to us. I am currently using items from the Neals Yard Sensitive range.
• Limit your intake of sugar and alcohol, and avoid smoking as they all promote ageing. Drink plenty of water!