Using anti-ageing products can boost your self-esteem!

Anti-ageing strategies like using creams and skin-improvement methods can improve appearance and boost self-esteem, say experts. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) offers advice on how to slow ageing and boost self-esteem. 'Photo-ageing or the changes induced by chronic UV exposure is responsible for accelerating the skin's ageing process,' said Marian Northington, M.D, director of UAB Cosmetic Dermatology. 'The No. 1 way people can prevent photo-ageing is wearing a 30-plus SPF sunscreen, one that contains zinc oxide, every day,' Northington said. If it is too late, and the sun has already done its damage, or for people who are older, there are ways to diminish the signs of ageing. 'Using an over-the-counter cream with retinol, which is a vitamin A derivative, can decrease the risk of skin cancer and improve skin pigmentation and abnormalities. It will also increase collagen content to help with lines and wrinkles,' Northington said.

Northington said studies have shown some dermatologic skin-improvement methods have benefits beyond an improved appearance. Josh Klapow, Ph.D., associate professor in the UAB School of Public Health and a psychologist, echoes this notion. 'Outward appearance can have a significant impact on a person's self-esteem, so 'looking better' both in one's own eyes and in the eyes of others can add to self-esteem,' Klapow said.

Look younger with these anti-ageing potions!

Who doesn't want younger looking skin? Alas, it doesn't happen that easily. We need to take out time to exercise, massage and relax our face to maintain a youthful look. But another essential component is our diet. Eating the right foods can help nourish the skin from the inside out. Face yoga expert Danielle Collins shares her top anti-ageing juice and smoothie recipes which will keep your skin young and healthy.

Super Green Antioxidant Juice

This juice contains spinach, kale, grapes, apple and orange. It is high in antioxidants which help reduce free radical damage caused by pollution, stress, sun and poor food choices. The result is firmer, clearer and more youthful skin. Spinach is known to help keep the eyes healthy. Another ingredient, the superfood kale (karam sag) is a beauty secret of many celebrities and is full of carotenoids. Eating carotenoids like the ones found in kale helps maintain a healthy skin colour. The fruits in this recipe not only add some great taste but the vitamin C content found in these fruits helps the skin produce collagen which results in firmer skin. All you need to do is blend all the items together and then pour it in a glass. You can vary the quantities of each according to your taste.Read more recipes by Danielle Collins

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