Ways to slow the ageing process II
3. Avoid Stress -
Many people felt stressed at some point or another. It could be a work related problem, a relationship crisis with loved ones or having the inclination to meet expectations from others or themselves.
Since we can never eliminate stress, we have to manage it properly because of its adverse effects on our skin.
Stress is characterised by an increasing heart rate, rising blood pressure and rapid breathing. The blood flow is being diverted away to the muscles and the heart giving us a paler complexion because blood is what makes the skin glows. This reduction in blood supply causes the skin to flake as the skin cells are unable to renew themselves as quickly as they should.
According to The American Academy of Dermatology, cortisols, our stress hormones, are released when we get tensed up, which in turn stimulate our oil glands, increasing the production of oil. This results in an oilier skin which is more vulnerable to breakouts and blackheads.
Try breathing exercises, engage in your favourite activities or have ‘rest’ time so as to reduce the tension, improving your health and skin’s appearance at the same time.
4. Avoid Alcohol -
The presence of alcohol dilates the red blood vessels, resulting puffiness and a flushed appearance. It reduces the number of white blood cells, leading to a weaker immune system. Consuming it in excessive amounts will cause damage to the organs creating health problems like liver cancer. Other than health, alcohol dehydrates the skin, causing water to evaporate and depleting it of moisture and nutrients leading to dryness, fine lines and wrinkles.
Partying and drinking goes hand in hand but so long you don’t drink consistently and excessively, there is no cause for alarm.
5. Drink Water -
Water has numerous functions - it regulates body temperature, it transports nutrients within and toxins out of the body and replenishes loss of fluid in our bodies.
Water is a natural moisturiser for our skin for it hydrates the skin cells, making it firm and supple and reducing skin irritations like rashes and breakouts.
With regular intake of water, our body metabolism rate and digestion improves and risks of diseases are reduced. Therefore, drink adequate water to help maintain our body and skin at optimum level.
Reduce Hot Baths
Many people enjoy hot baths or showers to relax and ease muscle aches because hot water dilates blood vessels and opens skin pores. However, hot water depletes oil and moisture from the skin, leaving it parched and dry. Cold showers on the other hand refresh and invigorate the body as blood vessels constrict and blood flow is diverted to the internal organs to maintain the body temperature.
To be continued………………….
Tags: alcohol, exercise, moisturiser, natural, Skin, stress, water, wrinkles
Anti-Ageing | jan1003 February 19, 2009
