Aging Gracefully

It honestly amazes me every single day how many new discoveries we are making in this world of ours; particularly, in the world of skin. Who knew that certain simple key ingredients could virtually rewind the effects of aging.
Let's face it, it's going to happen to all of us. It's a process of life, but it doesn't have to take an even more serious toll on our bodies and our faces unless we let it. I'm all for au naturel and aging gracefully, as I never see myself wanting to get dermal fillers, botox or plastic surgery. There isn't necessarily anything wrong with these treatments, but sometimes a 'quick fix' isn't for everyone and with new advances in technology and ingredient discoveries, we don't necessarily have to go that route. We should all start taking steps as early as possible to slow down the process of aging. Routine is key. Now, I don't know about you, but I definitely want to be one of those 45+ year old's who looks 30.

I was doing some research the other day and while reading up on some new skin care products, I found some articles. Here's what I was able put together:

In the body, certain hormones like DHEA and melatonin have been noted as having a lasting effect on diminishing the signs of aging. We all know that with a simple pill or medical procedure our troubles can be ‘fixed’ but with new science and technology, we have actually been able to input these benefits into many skin care products. 

We all know that our own bodies produce melatonin. Yes? Yes. Melatonin is a hormone naturally made by our brains. It is linked to controlling both the wake and sleep cycles of our bodies. Melatonin is also a new discovery in skin care and is thought to offer many anti-aging skin benefits.

Melatonin is classified as a 'terminal antioxidant' because once it has oxidized it forms stable end results and cannot return to its original state. 

When DHEA is used on the skin it is first absorbed before enzymes in the skin recognize it and convert it into either an anabolic or androgenic hormone. Melatonin works to strengthen the skin by renewing the cells. Our bodies don't require large amounts of topical melatonin to work and make a difference. In fact, small concentrations can have a serious and lasting effect on the skin. DHEA topically fends off destructive enzymes. DHEA causes any ingredient to be absorbed quickly. It helps keep the enzymes that feed of oxidation at bay which helps to preserve DNA. Not only does it do this but it also acts as an anti-inflammatory.

Another thing to note is that ingredients like blueberry, jojoba (which is a plant derived oil closest to our skins natural sebum), grape seed and vitamin E restore youthful properties to maturing skin.

So, when looking to choose a good, effective anti-aging restoring moisturizer, serum or eye cream, keep this simple new knowledge in mind. Remember to read your ingredients! Just because it has a fancy name and a fancy price doesn't mean it contains fancy things!

If you are not sporting 15+ sunscreen, I highly recommend you pick up a good SPF! As heavenly as our sun looks and feels, it's harmful UVA rays are completely detrimental to our skin and causes us to age virtually 10+ years. So even in the winter, wear your sunscreen! Just because it's snowing doesn't mean you're still not getting UVA rays from the ozone. 

Wishing you a youthful appearance and a laugh or two,

Jessica.