Top three tips to prevent early signs of aging

The FaceApp is taking social media by storm as celebrities and social media users across the nation morph their faces to look decades older. While it is currently being used for comedic purposes, there may be some people who are wondering how to keep the app from turning into reality.

Dr. Rajani Katta, a dermatologist and clinical faculty member at Baylor College of Medicine, offers three major ways to combat signs of aging no matter how old you are: 

Be careful with sun exposure

To decrease sun damage to your skin, Katta recommends wearing big sunglasses to protect the skin around your eyes, a wide brimmed hat while in the sun and seeking shade whenever possible. She adds that it is important to find a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) that can be worn every day, even if it is cloudy or you are driving in the car.

“There is a significant amount of UV radiation that can come through window glass,” Katta said. “It can cause lop-sided aging especially when you are driving, so it is important to wear sunscreen even while in the car.”

Eat the right foods

Katta says that your diet can have a major impact on your skin. She explains that excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun results in free radicals that cause premature skin aging. This can be combated by eating a diet full of antioxidant-rich foods – like blueberries and spinach. 

“While our body contains antioxidants to quench free radicals, it is essential to eat plenty of foods that can replenish those antioxidants,” Katta said. “On the other hand, eating a diet full of processed carbs and added sugar can elevate blood sugar levels, which lead to collagen damage and premature wrinkling.”

Choose the right skin care

People of all ages should choose skin care products that promote sun protection, but it is also essential to choose products that cater to your skin’s needs (like if you struggle with acne or dry skin). If you are beginning to notice premature wrinkling or aging, Katta recommends visiting a dermatologist who can show you the best products or procedures for your skin.

“If you are starting to see fine lines and wrinkles at a young age, I suggest going to see a dermatologist to counteract those lines,” Katta said. “They have great tools and procedures to help with that.”