Proactive youthfulness

Recently, Mira Rajput the 24-year-old wife of Bollywood star Shahid Kapoor was criticised when she appeared in an ad for a popular anti-ageing cream. But ageing skin is not something one should joke about.

In our 20’s most of us revel in the beauty that is younger skin, free of the hormone induced pimples during our teenage years. Now a days, we don't sleep enough, we get too much sun, likely forgetting sunscreen most days, and generally don't think ahead to the days when we'll start to experience sagging skin, lines and crow's feet. Genetics also plays a role in how our skin ages and some of us will start to see the signs before others. Many women and men alike, make the mistake of thinking that anti-aging products should only be used as one starts to move to middle age. The truth is, you would likely be better served to start using them in your mid 20’s as a skin care prophylactic. Prevention is better than having to cure. That's a well-known adage, and it's as true for everyday life as it is for your skin care.

So what exactly should you be doing? Here's your anti-wrinkle checklist:

1. Get to know your skin type and use products that best suit it: Your skin acts in different ways as you age. This may include excessive oil production without over-drying, clogged pores and blackheads, and breakouts – choose a product that addresses these concerns all while keeping the skin balanced and hydrated.

2. Drink plenty of water: Water is essential to keep the skin soft and smooth. Without enough water, the skin will dry out and lose elasticity, making it more susceptible to wrinkles and aging.

3. Eat foods rich in antioxidants: Leafy green vegetables, fruits, anything with Omega-3 (salmon), avocados, nuts, seeds and berries! Antioxidants minimise cell damage and fight aging from the inside, out. They can also help reignite skin's vitality, vibrancy, and overall healthy look.

4.Wear sunscreen 365 days a year: Adequate sun protection is key to prevent aging for young skin. Apply sunscreen every single day of the year, not just when it's sunny!

5.Start using eye cream NOW: The eye area is the first area to age due to wear and tear from smiling, squinting and rubbing your eyes. Keeping this area hydrated and nourished is essential for preventing premature lines and wrinkles. In your early 20’s, use a lightweight eye cream. In your late 20s, start using a more moisturising and active eye cream.

6.Use an advanced topical skin product for holistic benefits: When looking for an anti-aging product, you should look for one that contains DMAE, Retinopeptide 189, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides and Vitamin C. These ingredients help in increasing skin elasticity and firmness, avoiding sun spots and blemishes, maintaining suppleness and moisture, and fighting free radicals respectively.

7.Leave people guessing with anti-wrinkle treatments as suggested by your Dermatologist: Anti-wrinkle treatments such as fractional RF, skin needling, and cosmedical peels can also help stimulate your collagen and elastin, while cosmetic injections can instantly plump and relax facial contours. A visit to a certified dermatologist would be recommended for an informed opinion on your specific skin type.

Dr Deepika Shetty is a dermatologist. Disclaimer: Always check with a specialist before going ahead with this procedure.