To visibly reduce the signs of aging, the first thing to do is to stay out of the sun. It is so sad and ironic that the very thing that lifts our spirits, droops our faces.

Excessive sun exposure damages the immune system in the skin, destroys both collagen and elastin production and kills some normal skin cells. Heat and cold also damage skin and reduce functionality. The environment contains many chemical agents that react with the skin and create free radicals which in turn react with the compounds in the skin. Fortunately, proper diet and proper hygiene practices can help reduce the visible signs of damage caused by the environment. Eating a well balanced diet of proteins, fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and whole wheat grains as well as drinking at least 8 glasses of water will help retard the appearance of aging.

Many cosmetic companies have developed several lines of products to cater to your specific skincare needs that meet the criteria for the essentials of great skincare. The 6 essential steps to younger-looking skin are:

1. Cleanse
2. Exfoliate
3. Freshen
4. Moisturize
5. Protect
6. Drink plenty of water

This may seem like an awfully lengthy daily routine. However, I assure you that you can achieve great results and it takes less than 5 minutes twice daily. Look for a streamlined skincare program that delivers dramatic anti-aging benefits when used all together consistently twice daily (morning and night). I suggest finding one brand and sticking to it. Very often a particular brand formalates all of their products to work together. You will experience the best results that way. As always look for a try-before-you-buy service, usually offered by Beauty Consultants and/or a satisfaction guarantee. This will ensure that you will only be purchasing the products that work best with your skin type.

Start with a cleanser: Look for a gentle exfoliating cleanser for your skin type. Some contain vitamin E (a free radical scavenger) as well as botanical extracts that freshen the skin in one simple step.

Next is moisturizer: Age-Fighting Moisturizers should absorb quickly, leaving the skin feeling soft and younger-looking.

Solutions with Sunscreen SPF 15 provide protection from the suns rays to help prevent skin damage and premature aging. Some also contain vitamin derivatives A (to help boost the skins own ability to produce collagen) and E (free radical scavenger).

Night Solutions are designed to be used at night to improve skins overall texture and firmness. Some also contain vitamin derivatives A, C and E and anti-aging botanicals.

This is a simple daily routine that will deliver excellent results when followed consistantly. Remember, the one part of your body that is always exposed is your face. Put your best face forward and take proper care of your skin for a smoother, softer, more radiant, younger-looking appearance. When you love the way you look, you have a tendency to feel great too! And it will show in every aspect of your life!

Have a great day!