5 Simple Ways to Reduce Wrinkles:
1. Prevent. Every day it is essential that you use a Broad Spectrum SPF of 30 or greater. Rain or shine, there are always harmful UV rays in the air. The sun is the #1 cause of aging (wrinkles and pigmentation that darkens over time), protect yourself!
2. Restore. Now more than ever, we need to defend our skin from environmental pollutants that cause free radical invasion, thus causing the skin to age. The good news is our skin absorbs nutrients faster than ingesting them. So, meet with your Esthetician to identify products containing potent antioxidants to keep your skin healthy.
3. Pro Cleanse. Use a professional facial cleanser that is pH balanced and is tailored to your skin type. Many over the counter cleansers contain harsh detergents (surfactants) that are full of sulfates, parabens, and strip the skin. Finding the right cleanser can help balance the skin preventing conditions such as dehydrated or acne skin (saving you money in the long run).
4. Renew. Exfoliate the skin 2-3X per week to slough dead skin cells and encourage cell renewal, revealing fresh, youthful cells. Exfoliating allows deeper penetration and greater efficacy of anti-aging serums and creams by breaking down the barrier on the surface called the “stratum corneum.”
5. Rebuild. And finally, retinol. A derivative of Vitamin A, retinol is used pm only and is typically available in 1% -3% strengths. Retinol repairs cell structure and stimulates the production of collagen (proteins that “plump” the skin) and strengthen elastin fibers. If you are new to retinol, first consult with your Esthetician and identify any contraindications such as (but not limited to): pregnancy, breast feeding, some medication, and sensitivities like rosacea. Apply sparingly (only a pea sized amount), and when first using retinol you should acclimate your skin by applying 2-3 nights per week for the first two weeks until eventually graduating to nightly application.
Special thanks to "Paula’s Choice” article “How to use Retinol products” http://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/skincare-advice/anti-aging-wrinkles/how-to-use-retinol-products.html?fdid=anti-aging
Laura Bruno is a Licensed Esthetician working in Oakland, CA. She loves helping people achieve their healthiest skin, and specializes in skincare treatments that are relaxing and provide real results.