Clients of our Santa Monica medical skin spa always ask us for our best anti-aging secrets. We polled our in-house skin experts and colleagues in the industry to discover some of the best advice for looking forever young. Most of them agreed that what you put in your body is as important as what you put on the outside and that it’s never too late to get started. A good skin care regimen, regular anti-aging treatments and a nutrient-dense diet can take years off your face and body.

The following tips will help you combat the signs of aging and look your very best.

1. Start a Regimen Early

Don’t wait for the first signs of aging to appear to start taking care of your skin. An anti-inflammatory diet, exercise, proper hydration and daily application of sunscreen should start as soon as your early 20s. For best results, avoid smoking altogether and only drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. Try to stay out of the sun as much as possible, especially from 10 am to 4 pm, which are the sun’s peak hours. No matter your age, you can always get regular facials to fight acne and laser treatments for hair removal and to reverse sun damage.

Laser Hair Removal March Specials

2. Use a Retinoid

Dermatologists across the board recommend using a retinoid to combat breakouts and wrinkles while boosting collagen production. Retinoids are compounds derived from vitamin A that promote cell turnover and boost circulation in the area. Regular use diminishes hyperpigmentation, reduces acne, unclogs pores and makes skin appear brighter and more radiant. Only apply retinoids at night, as they make your skin more photosensitive. For best results, try an over-the-counter strength formula first and then progress to prescription-strength once your skin has adjusted.

3. Boost Collagen

Take steps with your diet, skin care regimen and anti-aging services to stimulate collagen production. This will help your skin maintain elasticity and firmness while reflecting light so that it glows. Laser treatments, micro-needling and topical vitamin C products are excellent for building collagen. A diet rich in vitamin C and amino acids is also very important.

Santa Monica medical skin spa

4. Follow a Healthy Diet

Youthful looking skin starts with an anti-inflammatory diet rich in antioxidants. Make sure to get the majority of your nutrients through organic food and supplement the areas where you’re lacking. Hydrate properly with water, green tea and foods with high water content, such as watermelon, berries and cucumbers. Consume healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which strengthen the skin’s protective moisture barrier. Eliminate sugary and starchy foods as much as possible, as they cause inflammation and spikes in blood sugar, which cause collagen breakdown. Swap out processed foods for lean protein, fruit and produce. If you drink alcohol, keep it to two drinks with a glass of water in between each to prevent dehydration.

5. Get Anti-Aging Services That Promote Skin Regeneration

Our Santa Monica medical skin spa offers anti-aging services and treatments that prevent, reduce and reverse the signs of aging. Opt for those that regenerate and repair cells, while smoothing wrinkles, improving texture and evening out skin tone. Laser treatments, photofacials and chemical peels are excellent choices that promote cell turnover and boost collagen.

Visit our Santa Monica medical skin spa to get anti-aging treatments and services that shave years off your looks.