Medicine or Malarkey: Anti-Aging Remedies at Home?

Every year, we do get wiser, but that also means our bodies begin to age. Over time, our skin will begin to develop wrinkles, dark spots, and also start to lose its elasticity. Although the fountain of youth has yet to be discovered, ingredients for healthier skin may be closer than you think – and without shelling out a fortune for expensive creams or more complex treatments. Can home remedies straight out of your refrigerator and pantry help preserve your radiant skin? Read on and find what might be right for you!

Lemons

Lemons are loaded with vitamin C and collagen, which can help lighten dark spots on your skin and heal skin tissue. By mixing lemon juice with honey and applying the mixture to your face (leaving on the skin for 20 minutes), you can tighten and brighten the skin.

Coconut

This white beauty naturally softens, moisturizes and reduces wrinkles. Simply grate the interior of the coconut, and then squeeze to collect the milk. Apply to your face and leave for 20 minutes. (Don’t have time to scrape out a coconut? Coconut oil is also a great natural moisturizer.)

Cucumber

This vegetable is abundant with antioxidants and silica that both rejuvenate the skin, fade dark circles and reduce puffiness. Simply apply cool, sliced cucumbers on the skin on and around your eyes for about 20 minutes, or create a facial mask with cucumber and lemon juice to pack an extra punch against premature aging. 

Nuts & Fruits

Eat nuts such as almonds, loaded with vitamin E to help heal UV damage — and walnuts, which are high in potassium — to help combat puffiness and sagging skin. It’s also smart to eat fruits high in vitamin A, C and E, such as blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and cranberries. For a facial mask, blend walnuts and blackberries together and massage onto your skin as a gentle exfoliant.

Egg Whites

Egg whites are not only a healthy pre- or post-workout snack… they also help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of your pores. The protein in egg whites repair tissue; the potassium moisturizes; the magnesium slows aging; and lysozyme resists acne-causing bacteria. To cleanse your face, simply mix one egg white with a teaspoon of lemon juice and half teaspoon of honey.

Bananas

This fruit is chock-full of “skin goodness.” Vitamin A fades dark spots and blemishes; vitamin B prevents aging; and potassium hydrates skin cells. Simply mix one mashed banana with a teaspoon of orange juice and plain yogurt for a 15-minute facial mask.

What else can you do to help your skin? Some simple lifestyle habits can make a difference, too.

• Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15 or more every day – even in the autumn and winter months, rain or shine.
• Stay hydrated by drinking 64 or more ounces of water each day
• Exercise 20 to 30 minutes each day
• Get your beauty sleep! It’s true, when you get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night, your body produces and repairs cells.
• Focus on lowering stress levels. Stress is proven to cause anxiety, insomnia and weight gain.

The healthier your skin is, the better you can feel overall! If you find any spots or changes in your skin which cause you concern, you can stop by CareSpot to see if you may need a referral to a specialist or simply get peace of mind.