Dermatologists share: Anti-aging tips that work

We don't have to accept every little age spot and wrinkle because many anti-aging tips really do work, says Debra Jaliman, MD and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets of a Top New York Dermatologist. If you're ready to take on Mother Nature, then let these top medical experts help you start your anti-aging skin regimen today.

Practice prevention

The earlier you begin caring for your skin, the better. "Prevention is important," says Houtan Chaboki, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with George Washington Medical Faculty Associates Department of Surgery in Washington, DC. "Start a skincare program with your dermatologist or plastic surgeon when you're younger to help reduce the signs of aging when you're much older."

Get started now>>> How to choose a skin care professional

Never forget the sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential. "Apply it daily," advises Dr. Chaboki, "even on cloudy days."

Use SPF 30 or above, says Dr. Jaliman, who prefers "zinc oxide, as it is broad-spectrum and anti-inflammatory." Sun protection factors of 70, 80 and even 90, however, aren't necessary. Modest UV exposure promotes the production of vitamin D.

Read more>>> The dos and don'ts of using sunscreen

use good skincare products

Retinol

For years now, retinol has been (and still is) the anti-aging buzzword. Retinol (retinoid) is a derivative of vitamin A that promotes an increase of collagen and elastic production. Retinol is used to treat fine lines, wrinkles and age spots.

Expert Tip: To help reduce skin irritation, at night after washing off your makeup, let your skin dry before apply retinol products. ~ Houtan Chabokin, MD

Peptides

Peptides are amino acids enhanced with a fatty component. Effective peptides can stimulate collagen production and cell repair to lead to healthier looking skin.

Antioxidants

Vitamins C is an antioxidant that helps our skin neutralize free radicals. Topical vitamin C improves smoothness and tone. Vitamin E helps protect the skin from UV exposure and the damage that accompanies it.

Read more>>> Top skin anti-aging ingredients

Be patient

We're a culture of immediate gratification, but it's important to note that some things take time. "Most dermatology products take several weeks or months to demonstrate skin improvement," says Dr. Chaboki. Trying different products for only a few days or a couple of weeks doesn't give the product an ample chance to work.

Read more>>> The softest, silkiest skin: How to get it

Live a good life

"Lifestyle choices have more impact on skin quality than any treatment the dermatologist or plastic surgeon can provide," says Dr. Chaboki. "Stop smoking, drink plenty of fluids, restrict sun exposure, get plenty of sleep, eat a balanced diet with vegetables and start a skincare program with your skin specialist."

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7 Common skincare mistakes from Jason Steffan of Richard Steffan Skincare in Switzerland:

1. Going to bed without removing your makeup
2. Using too many different skincare brands at once
3. Not allowing enough time for your skin to adjust to a new skincare regimen
4. Living an unhealthy lifestyle consisting of poor food choices and lack of exercise
5. Exfoliating excessively
6. Not looking at ingredients in food and skincare products

 

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