7 Ways to Ensure that You Age Gracefully

Coco Chanel once said that “a woman has the age she deserves", and in many ways she was correct. Growing older is a chronological process, but looking older is more ambiguous as it depends on various factors. Many have taken to cosmetic surgery or botox injections in an attempt to look younger. But, these options don’t appeal to everyone as they are relatively expensive, physically painful and unnatural; what’s more, they are more reactive than preventative solutions. Below is a list of seven things that one can do to ensure they still look good in their 40s and beyond.
1.      Avoid sugar
The consequences of excessive amounts of refined sugar are far from sweet. Besides the cavities and the extra kilograms, it also speeds up the ageing process. This is because excessive sugar reduces levels of antioxidants, and antioxidants make your skin look healthier and younger. A study conducted by Unilever presented findings that concluded that people who eat unhealthily and don’t exercise regularly are more likely to look older than they are because of high blood sugar.
2.      Get active!
As was mentioned in the first point, a sedentary lifestyle and excess weight promotes high blood sugar, which in turn causes the skin to age. You certainly don’t need to aim for a pre-teen’s figure. Use your body mass index (BMI) as an indication of whether you're currently at healthy weight for your height.
3.      Avoid sun exposure
I’m sure by now that you’ve heard to avoid too much exposure to ultraviolet rays. It isn’t healthy because it can lead to cancer, and it also promotes premature aging of the skin. The solution is so simple: SPF forever! If you’re dying for a tan, then buy it in a bottle or visit the spa to get it sprayed on. Your skin will thank you later.
4.      Drop the cigarettes
Besides sun damage, smoking is the biggest cause of premature ageing. It’s even worse for women because, (as countless studies have proven) nicotine is more addictive for women, and they are more affected by the skin and health consequences. Tell tale signs of ageing become apparent as early as a smoker’s 30s, around their mouth and eyes; and by the time they are in their 40s, smokers often look older than non-smokers of the same age.
5.      Reduce your stress levels
I’m sure you’ve heard it many times before, high stress levels make you get sick, gain or lose a lot of weight and age before your time. Make sure you’re not overdoing it. Switch off your cell phone and dedicate time to yourself and to people who make you laugh; keep a healthy diet and exercise; talk to someone you care about, and get enough sleep at night.
6.      Moisturize your skin
It makes intuitive sense that skin that’s always dry will eventually lead to wrinkles. Cleansing and moisturizing are also basics to a skin routine that promotes beautiful healthy skin. If you want to have one up on ageing then, instead of using the same products throughout your adult life, switch to a moisturizer specifically formulated to fight the signs of ageing on your face when you hit you mid to late 30s.
7.      Drink wine
Finally, something to celebrate! But, if you’re more of a “white wine person”, then maybe you shouldn’t hit the roof just yet. I say this because it’s specifically red wines that have anti-ageing properties. But, keep it healthy—one or two small glasses a few times a week should be enough. Put your feet up, let your hair down and toast to a beautiful, long life.

Tetlanyo is an aspiring and avid reader. Some of her favourite past times include scouring second-hand book stores and reading whilst buried between her bed sheets and throw pillows.