Oxygen molecules are the bad boys of the antiaging world. When involved in a chemical reaction, they frequently lose one of their electrons and then dash madly about trying to steal an electron from another molecule. This can start a destructive chain reaction of unstable molecules, called free radicals, dashing around creating more unstable molecules.

Think of it like a radical mob building to riot force. Free radical damage is also known as oxidation. On metal, it appears in the form of rust. So when we say we are getting rusty, its not really far from the truth!

Fortunately skin has amazing regenerative abilities that help it repair damage up to a point. As well, nature has provided an anti-riot squad called The Antioxidants. Antioxidants are found in the human body and elsewhere in nature. They effectively block free radicals from getting to other healthy stable molecules.

But there are factors that can accelerate free radical damage to the point that the balance of power shifts in favor of the free radical mob. Current thinking categorizes the factors into: lifestyle (meaning where and how you live); the natural aging process; and genetics.

Some of these skin risk factors can be changed and some cant. As time and science march on, the list of factors which can be mitigated grows longer and longer. Lifestyle changes are frequently possible if you know what to do and are motivated to make the changes.

Thanks to fairly recent scientific findings, the natural aging process of skin can be slowed and even reversed to some extent. That leaves only the genetic factors of skin aging that we are stuck with. At least for now.

UV protection, in the form of SPF creams, is the first topical step to take for your skins health. The second is moisturizing. The third step is assisting the fight against free radical damage with antioxidants. Steps four and five are skin care products that help remove old/dead/abnormal skin cells and those that promote normal skin regeneration. Many ingredients shown to accomplish this demolition and renovation are found in the latest generation of face creams.

In addition to antiaging treatments that support physical health and beauty, there are also antiaging skin care creams that address cosmetic concerns like adult acne, uneven skin pigmentation and lines of expression.

While no one dies from these conditions, it is widely accepted that if we look better, we feel better. So though treatments for these skin conditions are termed cosmetic , they frequently have a mental health benefit in that they support a healthy self-image and increased self confidence.

This article is for informational purposes only. It does not purport to offer medical advice. Consult a qualified physician before using any of these products.br
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The saying “beauty is only skin-deep” cannot be truer than in regards to adult acne. Studies have proven that topical acne creams and cleansers are simply not enough to stop acne in its tracks.

Recent studies claim that what you put into your body may be more important than what you put on your skin. It can’t be denied that acne skin care treatments can help acne, but the majority of acne products are topical, meaning that they go on the surface of your skin. So, it’s not far fetched to think that these products simply treat the symptom of something greater that’s going on inside your body.

With a few easy changes to your lifestyle, you can get to the root of your adult acne problem and maybe even find a cure. This may sound like a big task to take on, but all it really involves is taking control of your personal habits. Here’s how:

1. Eat Right
It’s common knowledge that eating healthier provides many great benefits like just feeling better overall. Eating lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and fish can greatly benefit a bad complexion. But it’s important for you to also limit the amount of bad fats, sugar and caffeine you take in, particularly if you eat a lot of processed foods.

The next time you shop at the grocery store, pay attention to where specific types of foods are located within the store. You’ll see that all of the fresh foods ? produce, meats, fresh fish and dairy products ? are along the outside walls of the store, and all of the processed foods are in the center. Keep your cart away from the center aisles and you can be assured you’re making good dietary choices.

2. Drink Plenty of Water
Our bodies are made up mostly of water. Water keeps us hydrated and helps remove toxins from our bodies. Make sure to drink water every day ? not just when you’re thirsty, but all day long. Did you know that by the time you feel thirsty, you’re already experiencing symptoms of dehydration? If you want more flavor than water has to offer, opt for teas or 100% fruit juices that don’t have added sugar.

3. Get Lots of Rest
Our bodies aren’t meant to be on the go all of the time. Not getting enough sleep can knock you out of whack. By getting enough rest every night and taking a nap if needed during the day, you can stay fresh and alert and keep your body balanced. When people don’t have enough energy due to lack of sleep, they have a tendency to snack and drink caffeinated beverages to keep them going. Opt for a 15-minute catnap instead, and you’ll be doing your body and skin a lot of good.

4. Move Around
Stress is a major cause of common health issues like weight gain, mood disorders, fatigue, headaches, and, yes, even bad skin. Exercise helps relieve stress and filter toxins out of your body. You’ll not only feel better, but you’ll look better, too.

You could face years of using topical solutions and medication to treat your acne, or you could address the issues that are going on inside your body and stop acne now. By making some simple lifestyle changes you’re not only making yourself healthier on the inside, the results will be noticeable on the outside through your clear, glowing skin.