Fine lines, wrinkles, sudden dryness, and itchiness all point to a common problem that is mostly seen in adults in their mid-30’s and above. In order to combat these manifestations, it’s important to know the real enemy: skin aging. In this article we interviewed Dr. Minali Midha, a board-certified dermatologist to enlighten us about all-things anti-aging.
We get it — we all want to turn back time. Although this may be impossible, the wonders of technology have made it possible for us to minimize signs of aging. Lifestyle plays an important role in bringing back that glow, too. Read along as we discuss all that and more below.
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No such thing as ‘too young’ for anti-aging
For us in our youth, the thought of anti-aging rarely crosses our minds. However, Dr. Minali advises us to “start a proper skincare regimen during your adolescence to keep your skin smooth, resilient and blemish free.” Prevention is a central idea to avoid aging — this means gearing up with a handy sunscreen and moisturizer (more on that later) even before we experience the said signs. “It’s always better to start when the signs of aging skin have not set in, but it’s never too late to start taking care of your skin,” she says.
Ingredient recommendations for that youthful radiance
Now that we know a thing or two about anti-aging, we may be well on our way to shop for skincare. Before you start adding things to your cart, get to know Dr. Minali’s top ingredient recos.
Aside from age, UV exposure is also a lead factor for the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and the like. “Since most of the aging signs in skin is due to UV rays, a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 should be started during teenage years,” Dr. Minali states. If you’re seeking for actives, ingredients such as vitamin c, peptide serums, and other antioxidant-infused skincare can be incorporated. Double it up by adding alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), as well as retinol twice a week. As for moisturizers, Dr. Midha says, “it’s very important to maintain the hydration of skin by using a good moisturiser containing either hyaluronic acid or ceramides.”
Lifestyle do’s and don’ts
According to Dr. Minali, it all boils down to how we take care of ourselves. Aiming for a healthy lifestyle is vital in having and maintaining good skin. “We call it a healthy lifestyle when there’s a proper balance of all the components which includes a well-balanced nutritious diet, keeping your body hydrated by drinking at least 3 litres of water every day, exercising, and practising meditation,” she advises. Smoking, excessive consumption of processed food and alcoholic beverages should be avoided at all costs.
The bottom line
It’s never easy to fight the nature of aging, but it can be managed when we start investing time to care for our well-being. Always remember to shower yourself with love and put on sunscreen.
About the contributor
Dr Minali Midha is a certified dermatologist by profession and has been practising clinical and aesthetic dermatology for the last 4 years in India. She runs her clinic by the name TWACHA Skin, Hair and Aesthetic Clinic in Ranchi (Jharkhand).