Natural Anti-Aging Ingredients

By Holly Dunbar, CMT, RH (AGH)

New Moon Body Work and Botanicals

. http://www.newmoonbody.com

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Natural Anti-Aging Ingredients

The skin is a remarkable organ, the largest of the body, and its general appearance reveals much about one's internal health. Aging of the skin, contrary to what appears before the mirror, begins at the ripe old age of eight, so it is important to be pro-active in regards to skin care. Certain activities, such as massage therapy, can stimulate new collagen production in muscle tissue. Natural anti-aging ingredients applied topically can also stimulate collagen production, inhibit free radicals, and improve the appearance and general health of this vital organ.

Two of the safest and most effective topical anti-aging ingredients are hylaronic acid and stable vitamin C. Hylaronic acid is a natural component of the skin, but is depleted with age and environmental stressors. Hylaronic acid promotes suppleness of the skin by assisting in moisture retention and collagen production. Collagen and elastin give body and elasticity to the skin. When the fibers of these components of the intracellular matrix are compromised, the skin becomes less pliable and sags, and is more vulnerable to infection because of its fragile dermal layer. Think of a rubber band left out in the hot sun.

Vitamin C can be a very effective skin care ingredient, however it must be the right type- AAP, a stable form when immersed in liquids, otherwise it oxidizes very quickly. This oxidation that can occur can actually be damaging to the skin. Stable vitamin C promotes collagen and protein synthesis, and brightens the skin by inhibiting melanin production. This can be useful for age spots, evening out complexion tone, and brightening dull skin. Melanin is a protector of the skin that inhibits UV rays, so when using a product that contains vitamin C, it is important to always wear sunscreen.

Antioxidants are derived from herbs, fruits, and even mushrooms and are effective anti-aging agents, as well as important for general skin health of all ages as they scour for free radicals that damage skin cells. Damaged skin cells will lead to a dull or inflamed complexion, but also are more prone to developing harmful skin cancers. Look for ingredients such as white and green tea, rooibos, ginkgo, and rosemary. These herbs also have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.