They say aging is inevitable, but no one says it has to be noticeable. Every day we live ages us, but how can we slow down the effects on our bodies? Social media shows retouched images of supermodels and photos which use filters to defy the natural consequences of aging. Mainstream media promotes expensive procedures that are not available to the average American. Isn’t there something that can be done that is affordable and available to all? The simple answer is “yes a healthy lifestyle can slow aging, but stopping the progression will require professional intervention.” Does Water Improve the Appearance of Aging Skin? The skin is about 30 percent water, but there is little evidence indicating that drinking more water every day (such as 8 to 10 glasses) will flush toxins from the skin and generate a “glowing complexion,” as is widely touted in the beauty industry. Adequate skin hydration won’t prevent wrinkles or other signs of aging related to genetics, but it will assist in keeping skin supple and reduce dryness. (1) Can Supplementation Slow Down the Effects of Aging? Free radicals are the leading culprit in accelerating the appearance of aging. Dermatologist say “The best prevention strategy against the harmful action of free radicals is a well-regulated lifestyle, with low-stress conditions and a balanced nutritional diet, including anti-oxidative rich food.” (2) The standard American diet often falls short in supplying the vitamins and minerals our bodies need to combat free radicals effectively. Supplements to consider in your fight for a youthful appearance are Vitamins C, D, E as well as Carotenoids which are derivates of Vitamin A. Polyphenols, Coenzyme Q10 (known as CoQ10), Essential fatty acids, some proteins, and lactobacilli have also been referred to as “agents capable of promoting skin health and beauty.” (2) How Does Poor Sleep Accelerate Premature Skin Aging? “Our study is the first to conclusively demonstrate that inadequate sleep is correlated with reduced skin health and accelerates skin aging. Sleep deprived women show signs of premature skin aging and a decrease in their skin’s ability to recover after sun exposure,” says Dr. Elma Baron. (3) Research shows poor sleep manifests itself through fine lines, uneven pigmentation and reduced skin elasticity. Studies also show that those who enjoyed quality sleep were more quick to recover from stressors to the skin such as sun and environmental toxins. “This research shows for the first time, that poor sleep quality can accelerate signs of skin aging and weaken the skin’s ability to repair itself at night,” said Dr. Daniel Yarosh. (3) Can the MicroPen Treatment Help Diminish the Signs of Aging? Yes, the MicroPen can make a big difference in skin tone and appearance. This procedure is relatively quick, and can be performed in approximately one hour when treating the entire face. Further, it carries very little down time and clients can typically go back to their regular skin care routines the very next. What Other Options Are Offered at Med Studio? Although you can make an impact on your skin with healthy living, to indeed reverse the effects of aging, you will need professional help. Med • Studio offers Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy, PRP for Hair Loss, and more to address signs of aging. The best option to knowing how to improve your appearance is to schedule a consultation with a licensed specialist at Med•Studio at one of our two locations in Minnetonka or Woodbury. We provide excellence for our patients in neighboring areas in the Twin Cities. (1) – Sinatra, S. Why Water is Key for Anti-Aging. Retrieved from https://heartmdinstitute.com/health-and-wellness/water-important-anti-aging/ (2) – (2012 July 1). Discovering a Link Between Nutrition and Skin Aging. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583891/ (3) – Emling, S. (2013, July 24). Sleep Deprivation Linked to Aging Skin, Study Suggests. Retrieved from https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/24/sleep-deprivation-effects-aging-skin_n_3644269.html