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Looking fab at forty

To have glowing skin at 40, follow a skincare regimen from a young age

SHOWING THE WAY Sridevi

When our mothers were young, skincare meant Cinthol soap at the end of the day and maybe some leftover `malai' scrubbed on the face and hands on Sunday. Things have changed dramatically over the years. Women comprise nearly 50 per cent of the workforce in urban settings and with disposable incomes and a strong sense of self-esteem, they pay close attention to their own skincare needs. Dermatologists say that the primary cause of premature aging is photo aging. Almost 70 per cent of wrinkles, brown spots, sagging skin and dryness are caused by exposure to the sun. The sun's UV rays damage cells and blood vessels in the outer layer of skin and trigger the formation of free radicals. Free radicals scavenge the skin, break down the collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Environment, pollution, genetic and lifestyle factors also determine your skin's condition.

After 40, the inevitable loss of collagen that is part of natural aging becomes more apparent. The latest skincare Age Solutions formulae are created with collagen and cell renewing ingredients that work as a natural facelift.

Skincare routine: An effective daily regimen must include cleansing, toning, exfoliation, moisturising and nourishing. First, determine your skin type. Exfoliation, the removal of dead cells from the epidermis, uncovers the smoother, fresher-looking skin beneath. It encourages growth of new cells. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are derived from natural ingredients such as grape in grape phenol, sugarcane and fruits, can serve as natural exfoliators. Boost the circulation in your skin by using a facemask containing Ginseng Extract once or twice a week to keep your skin surface soft and smooth.

Never overlook the `cleansing' and `toning' step. Your skin's surface becomes clogged with debris, sweat, pollutants, excess oil and bacteria. Choose something gentle. You want to remove excess sebum, but not the fat that waterproofs your skin and protects it. Also use cool water to rinse

Adopt a 24-hour programme (day cream and night cream) that protects, nourishes, repairs and strengthens. Look for products that have marine bio-polymer and micro-collagen which prevent sagging and wrinkles. And always use a light touch on your skin, and whenever you can, use upward and outward strokes, rather than dragging the skin.

Diet: Drink one litre of water for every 15 kg of bodyweight every day. Stick to a balanced diet with adequate quantities of cereal, leafy green and brightly coloured vegetables and protein. Olive oil should be the cooking medium.

Sleep: It is while you sleep that your skin cells get their nourishment and regenerate. Some hormonal secretions can take place only when you are in deep sleep. Go to bed one or two hours earlier than you did.

Nutrition: Look out for organic food or vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure good health and a strong immune system. Ask your GP.

Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol three hours before bedtime.

Exercise: Exercise is a panacea for most ailments and most age-related maladies can be kept at bay by exercise.

Stay out of the sun: To reduce its aging effects, always administer sun-blocking products of SPF 18. Keep out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wear protective clothing, carry an umbrella and opt for long sleeves, if you are outdoors during the day.

Sex: A satisfying sex life (with a steady partner) has a beneficial effect on your skin, apart from extending life expectancy by at least two years.

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