It is a silent problem that you can do little about. Aging is a dreadful phenomenon, especially when it leaves lines and spots on the skin. This article discusses skin aging and whether you need to consult a doctor for it.
Why aging is your skin’s enemy
The aging process creeps up slowly on you at first, but starts leaving indelible signs on your skin from the late 20s. It begins with dullness or dryness, then goes on to fine lines and wrinkles. You might even suffer acne and pigmentation.
Aging depletes the skin’s natural barriers against the environment by reducing the production of collagen, and decreasing the cells’ ability to retain moisture. The cells are unable to repair and restore themselves as quickly as they used to in your teenage years and 20s. The aging process is further exacerbated with a poor diet, the harsh climate in the UAE, constant exposure to air-conditioned environments, lack of deep sleep and little to no exercise.
Can you stop the march of time?
Nobody can halt aging. It is a natural process that must be met with dignity and acceptance. But accepting the inevitable does not mean that you can allow your skin to appear older than you are. You might not be able to stop time in its tracks, but you can certainly stave off the effects of aging for as long as you can.
This is what you need to be able to retain your radiant, youthful looks:
- A daily skin cleansing and moisturising routine
- Mandatory use of sunscreen lotion with an SPF of 25 or above
- Limited exposure to direct sunlight
- A diet rich with leafy greens, mineral- and vitamin-rich vegetables and fruit, and water
- At least seven hours of good quality sleep
- Exercise at least three times a week that works up a sweat and conditions the muscles
- The best skin care products to combat the signs of aging
- A top dermatologist on speed dial for all your skin and hair issues
Do you need to see a doctor?
Not all skin problems need a doctor’s intervention, at least at first. But if you have noticed an uptick in your skin care issues after your move to Dubai, then it may be time to find the best dermatologist in the city. Let them diagnose your problems and do not self-medicate. Skin care products that suit one person may not be suitable for another, and the doctor is the best judge of which products will work best for your skin.
Some basic skin care to follow
As you age, you must take better care of your skin so that you can retain your good looks. These basic skin care routines are a must:
- Start and end the day by cleansing, toning and moisturizing the face and neck. After your shower, apply a water-based moisturizer all over your body to lock in hydration. We recommend the moisturizer and purifying cleanser from Kaya skin products for the best results.
- Apply sunscreen lotion every day, whether you are indoors or out, and irrespective of the weather conditions. Replenish it every three to four hours with a fresh application.
- Invest in the best quality skin care products and use them as directed by your dermatologist.
- Get a skin analysis done once a year to know the health of your skin, and possible issues that need sorting out. Do not wait for a problem to fester into something serious – seek timely help for your skin and hair.
- Consume a diet rich in nutrients and water. Stay away from processed food, fizzy colas and white sugar for optimum skin health.
- Take up an exercise routine you like and stick with it regularly. Exercise removes toxins from the skin, and regularizes your digestive, circulatory and metabolic processes. It also promotes the flow of oxygenated blood to the major organs of the body, and improves lymphatic drainage processes.
- Stress is your skin’s biggest enemy. Learn de-stressing techniques like meditation, or listen to calming music if you feel stressed out. Having a hobby is important to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, and to keep the mind and body productively occupied.