GLOW FROM WITHIN
Take a more holistic approach to ageing for naturally radiant skin
Take a holistic approach for a more radiant complexion
f you want a more youthful complexion, you need to do more than apply a cream. The way your skin ages is affected by what you eat, do and even think. Increasingly, experts are revealing how our lifestyle can impact on the rate at which skin starts to lose elasticity and tone. “Trying to take wrinkles away on the surface is like putting on a sticking plaster,” says naturopathic doctor Nigma Talib.
We’ve all witnessed someone age seemingly overnight when they have been through a stressful life event. “Our adrenals – tiny almond-shaped glands on top of the kidneys – produce the ‘fight or
flight’ hormone, cortisol, as a defence mechanism. It’s a good thing in the short term, as it helps us remain alert when we’re threatened, but it can become a drain if we don’t relax,” Nigma explains. Cortisol also increases blood sugar levels, and a 2011 study published in the Journal of the American Aging Association found that those with high blood sugar levels look ten years older, with skin more prone to sagging.
Other natural processes happening at a cellular level in the body also affect the
ageing process. “Free radicals – unstable molecules that can create a lot of damage – are caused by stress as well as UV exposure, smoking, pollution and a bad diet. They can lead to what’s known as ‘oxidative stress’. Like rust on a shiny metal box, they increase pigmentation, so our skin looks yellow and dull, and they cause wrinkles,” says former surgeon Dr Terry Loong, who combines her Eastern roots with Western medicine for her anti-ageing programmes at The Skin Energy Clinic, London.
Inflammation is yet another age accelerator. It’s your body’s normal response to injury caused by trauma and infection, but it can also be a response to pollution and certain foods, such as sugar and processed items, and can become chronic.
Fortunately, there are simple changes you can make to minimise the damage these factors can cause and reveal a healthier, more radiant and younger-looking you.
CALM YOUR MIND
A study at the University of California Davis Center for Mind and Brain showed that conscious breathing and meditation may help to reduce cortisol levels. Holistic facialist Marie Reynolds recommends these simple techniques: “Think of your happiest memory and visualise every tiny detail – the place, sounds, smells and colours. Keep bringing this image to the front of your mind as you relax. Or concentrate on a candle flame in a conscious way.” Try the Neom Real Luxury Intensive Skin Treatment Candle (£36; neomorganics.com), with lavender, jasmine and rosewood oil to aid relaxation. The melted oil it produces can be massaged into the skin afterwards, too.
FEED YOUR SKIN
Antioxidant-rich foods help ‘mop up’ damage caused by free radicals. At this time of year, kale, purple-sprouting broccoli and cauliflower are in season and packed with nutrients. Or look for dried goji berries, frozen blueberries and raspberries and raw dark chocolate to add to smoothies.
Eating low-gi foods can help reduce blood sugar levels. “The easy way is to have a bit of protein with every meal or snack,” says nutrition therapist Ian Marber. “If you’re having an apple, eat some almonds as well.”
Omega fatty acids are also essential for skin health. Incorporate oily fish, such as salmon and mackerel, into your meals twice a week or drizzle Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil Blend (£12.99; udoschoice.co.uk) over salads, soups and baked potatoes.
MINDFUL CLEANSING
Massage can be a youth booster, too. A tight neck and shoulders restrict blood flow to the face, causing grey, sallow skin. “The way we apply products to our skin makes a huge