Those with mature or damaged skin can begin to repair damage by following these simple techniques.
In the past decade natural body care products (including organic, fair trade, and mineral based items) has changed the way consumers look for and use cosmetics. Customers are now more savvy about who to look for and what to avoid. This shift has meant huge growth in the industry with new products hitting the market on almost a daily basis.
However, there is a very large segment of the population being left behind – those with mature or damaged skin. By addressing and understanding the needs of this group, retailers can expand their product base and increase their bottom line.
As skin ages, it loses elasticity and becomes thinner. The layer of fat giving skin its plump and firm appearance begins to shrink and does not regenerate. This shrinking fat layer also reduces the amount of moisture in the skin, leading to dryness and wrinkles. There are two ways for skin to show signs of aging:
Chronological Aging – We get old. This type of aging is impossible to stop, but the process can be slowed down. Many products that address this type of aging focus on increasing moisture and collagen levels in the skin.
Environmental Aging – This type of aging can happen at any age and is due to exposure to the elements (sun and wind). Environmental aging can be prevented, but once it starts it is difficult to repair. Products addressing this type of aging focus on exfoliating dead skin and aim to prevent future damage.
Lifestyle Aging – Smoking and poor nutrition can lead to skin looking and feeling older. This type of damage can definitely be prevented and repair is very difficult. Products addressing this type of aging focus on exfoliation and antioxidant replacement.
So what can you to repair and nourish mature skin?
Protect your skin – As the saying goes, the best defense is a good offense. Be proactive in treating your skin well. This means washing your skin with a gentle cleanser daily, moisturizing after cleaning and reducing your exposure to the sun by using sunscreen and wearing a hat. Those with darker skin should not neglect skin protection. While more melanin in skin does provide slightly more protection, it is not enough to prevent sun damage.
Exfoliate – One of the best ways to make the skin look brighter and stimulate skin growth is to take dead layers of skin off. Using a gentle exfoliation method (such as papaya or apricot seeds) can polish and bring blood to the surface of the skin.
Drink water – This is especially important for combating lifestyle aging. One of the effects of a bad diet and not taking care of yourself is a build up of toxins in the skin and one of the best ways to remove those toxins is to flush it out with water. Drink 8-10 ounces of fluid a day. Mix it up with both water and green tea.
