Beware who you trust
Many websites share anti-aging health advice, or advice intended to reduce the visual signs of aging. This includes taking actions to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, gray hair, and other things associated with growing older. Numerous websites offer anti-aging health tips. Some offer sound advice, while others do not. Many anti-aging remedies are flawed as they fail to embrace the normal aging process. Some promote anti-aging products or surgeries that are ineffective, and in worse case scenarios, are downright dangerous. Consumers must scrutinize who they can trust.
Watch what you read
Just because it’s in print, doesn’t mean it’s legit. While some products boast accurate results, there are many beauty products on the market that use some forms of false advertising to make sales. For example, some before and after pictures may be photoshopped. Some companies may use false advertising, such as stating that their goods can “make you look 10 years younger overnight.” Or they may claim to have miracle products that stop aging in its tracks. Note that if it sounds too good to be true, it likely is. While some products are effective to prevent fine lines and wrinkles and can effectively prevent dryness and other issues associated with mature skin, most take time to work.
Embrace your natural inner beauty
The fountain of youth, described as far back as 5th century BC, is a mythical spring which allegedly restores youth to those who swim or bathe in it; quite simply it does not exist. However, many people feel rejuvenated and more beautiful when they focus on what’s on the inside. When people strive to live happily, they radiate joy from the inside out.
Does faith play a part?
There are some references to youthful energy and renewal in the Bible. Isaiah 40:30-31 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. For many, faith profoundly benefits the overall aging process, for God’s followers are renewed in Him. In fact, numerous articles reference believers who look young for their age.
Do the homework
There are hundreds of thousands of beauty products on the market promoted to “turn back the clock.” There are also surgeries available to reduce signs of aging. Before jumping in, it’s vital to do your homework. It’s essential to perform some research to make sure the products you are buying, or the surgeries you are considering, are safe, effective, and appropriate for you.
Your number one resource
If you have questions regarding your skin or overall health as it relates to aging, your dermatologist or medical practitioner are your best resources. In some cases, people may be overly critical and judgmental of themselves. A consultation with a therapist is highly recommended for people who experience body image or self-esteem issues. Truly healthy people do not body shame nor do they compare themselves with others. Instead, they embrace who they are and accept compliments.
Secondary resources
It’s wise to learn good ways to take care of the body to slow signs of aging. It’s also important to research beauty products, their contents, and effectiveness. However, folks are cautioned to visit medically reliable websites for information rather than blindly trust sales ads. Some trustworthy medical resources offering credible and in-depth medical news and reference materials include sites like the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), WebMD, Mayo Clinic, and official government sites such as Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and more.
Lean on solid resources
The CDC is a great informational resource. Many popular products, including some makeup, shaving cream, moisturizers, and hair supplies, contain parabens. These man-made chemicals are frequently used as preservatives and are put into many of our favorite skin care and hair care products. Some evidence demonstrates that parabens are unhealthy. To learn about human health effects from environmental exposure to parabens, visit the CDC’s Paraben Factsheet. Similarly, other ingredients in beauty products should undergo the same research and review by users to determine possible risks and which products are safest to use.
More reasons why consumers should do their due diligence
Many people are surprised to learn that the law does not require cosmetic products and ingredients, except for color additives, to be FDA approved. However, cosmetics must not be adulterated or misbranded. Additionally, the FDA has not defined the terms “natural” or “organic” and there is no established regulatory definition of these terms. Above all, there is no guarantee that natural and organic products are safe. Thus, folks are encouraged to make educated decisions.
Some sound advice
The best anti-aging health tips generally include living healthful lifestyles and avoiding stress. This means eating well balanced meals, drinking adequate amounts of water for one’s health, exercising regularly, administering self-care, controlling one’s health, and getting enough sleep. It also means making wise choices to include things like:
- Eating right & skipping high-fat and high-sugar processed foods
- Not smoking & limiting alcohol
- Practicing self-care & managing stress
- Exercising & avoiding a sedentary lifestyle
When negative conditions are controlled, it can significantly decrease signs of aging and even increase health outcomes. For more anti-aging information, visit our sister article here.
