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Chill out. Meditate. Play violin. Read a great American novel. Whatever you do for serious, relaxing downtime, do it and do it more often. "Stress causes the production of the hormone cortisol in our bodies," says Dr. Lancer. "Over time, this thins and dries out the skin, breaks down collagen and leads to sagging, fine lines and wrinkles." Stress also affects the quality of sleep (see B).
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Good face serums can contain truckloads of beneficial ingredients including hyaluronic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C -- anti-aging elements that smooth fine lines, help your skin retain moisture and fight free radical damage. Apply serums after spot treatments and before moisturizers. For specific details about how (and when) to apply specific products, see The Only Skin Care Guide You'll Ever Need.
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In-office anti-aging treatments have evolved far beyond surgery. Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments use a bright light to burn off dark spots and decrease redness. According to Dr. Woolery-Lloyd, you can see results from IPL in as little as two or three treatments. Another treatment option is a fractional laser. "They burn columns of skin leaving healthy, normal skin in between," Dr. Woolery-Lloyd says. These laser procedures can improve fine lines and wrinkles in as little as two treatments spaced six weeks apart.
You know those stories about the latest, greatest breakthroughs and research into anti-aging -- the ones that make you feel like you need a masters degree in chemistry, biology and dermatology to understand? This isn't one of them. Because creating an amazing anti-aging skin care regimen isn't about knowing every nuance behind the science of anti-aging. It's about distilling all of the research and how-to tips out there into a plan that suits you -- a plan that fits your life and your unique skin care needs.
Consider this your elementary guide to youthful, wrinkle-free and radiant skin. It's as easy as A-B-C.
Consider this your elementary guide to youthful, wrinkle-free and radiant skin. It's as easy as A-B-C.
