For anyone who is on the fence about cosmetic fillers, here are some painless (and less permanent) swaps you can make to get firmer-looking skin without involving any needles.
8 Ways to Look Younger Without Botox
Things are looking up, friends
Get More Sleep
Aim to get a minimum of eight hours of sleep every night to keep dark circles (which age you at least ten years) at bay. Bonus points if you’re snoozing between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., which is when cell regeneration peaks.
Use A Humidifier
While you’re getting your beauty rest, keep a humidifier nearby to help skin retain maximum moisture. This is especially important if you live in drier climates and during the winter when you’re frequently exposed to indoor heating.
Drink More Water
Fact: Dehydrated skin equals wrinkled skin. Staying well hydrated can mean the difference between looking like a juicy grape or a shriveled-up raisin.
Eat More Fish And Fresh Produce
So you get plenty of antioxidants to protect against free-radical damage. You’ll also get a big dose of omega-3 fatty acids to help plump up slack skin.
...but Less Sugar
Sugar is so bad for you that there’s an official term for what it does to your skin: glycation. Without getting too technical, glycation is what happens when you have too much sugar in your diet. This can weaken the collagen and elastin in your skin (aka the fibers that keep it firm and give it that youthful bounce). Bottom line: A treat here and there is fine, but cut down on the daily cookie consumption.
Check Your Makeup
Swap out anything that’s powder (which can be drying and accentuate lines) for a more luminous liquid or hydrating cream instead. This includes foundation, blush, highlighter and, if your eyes aren’t prone to getting slick, cream shadow.
Use Retinol
This vitamin A derivative helps to speed up cell turnover and stimulate new collagen growth. What does this mean for you? More even-toned and plumper-looking skin. See your dermatologist for a prescription and ease into using the stuff (start with every other night or dilute it with your moisturizer first) to prevent irritation.
Try A Laser Treatment
Fraxel laser resurfacing zaps brown spots from your face, chest and décolleté while tightening skin to minimize the appearance of fine lines. Just make sure to be diligent about sunscreen use afterward so you don’t undo the results.