Beware of the early signs of ageing, keep your skin happy, healthy with these 6 lifestyle changes

Health benefits of sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your skin to recover and maintain its youthful appearance (Image: Canva)

Dull, tired skin, with fine lines and wrinkles despite your best efforts? These are signs of ageing that become apparent over time. A healthy and happy skin not just about the products you apply, it’s  also about the habits you adopt.

Multiple factors contribute to skin issues and premature aging. Genetics, environmental stressors, and lifestyle choices all play a role. Exposure to UV rays from the sun speeds up the breakdown of collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm and elastic. Additionally, poor dietary choices, lack of hydration, and insufficient sleep can lead to skin problems such as dryness, dullness, and the formation of fine lines.

By making some lifestyle adjustments you can combat these issues and maintain radiant, youthful skin. Here’s how:

Drink ample water: Adequate hydration helps to maintain skin’s elasticity and suppleness. Drinking plenty of water aids in  keeping your skin hydrated from the inside out, flushing out toxins and promoting a healthy complexion. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and consider including hydrating foods like cucumbers and oranges into your diet.

Make nutrition a priority: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats supports skin health and combats oxidative stress that can lead to aging. Foods high in vitamins C and E, such as berries and nuts, help protect the skin from sun damage and promote collagen production. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds can also help maintain skin hydration and reduce inflammation.

Never ignore a good sleep: Quality sleep is vital for skin repair and regeneration. During deep sleep, the body produces growth hormones that help repair damaged cells and regenerate skin. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your skin to recover and maintain its youthful appearance.

Protect yourself from heat: Consistent use of sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to prevent premature aging. UV rays from the sun can cause sunspots, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours when exposed to sunlight.

Move that body: Regular physical activity boosts circulation and enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Exercise also helps reduce stress, which can negatively impact skin health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to promote a healthy complexion and overall well-being.

Stay stress free: Chronic stress can contribute to skin issues such as acne, eczema, and premature ageing. Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Managing stress effectively helps maintain hormonal balance and supports a clearer, more youthful complexion.