As we start the New Year, with the desire to do all things right, we are all much more focused on fitness, wellness in general and more specifically in taking notice of our skincare regimen and how it effects our anti-aging plan, which should begin at all ages. Dr. Angel Sturm, Facial Plastic Surgeon and Beauty Advisor for MRG, has beautiful glowing skin that seems to come to her naturally. Read below to get her take on what contributes to that special ‘ youthful look’ that is hers!
I was sitting at a fundraiser last week when I was asked a very simple, yet complicated question. “What is your secret to looking young?” There are so many things that go into looking your best, how can I pick just one? I started to rattle off a number of things, like skin care, sun screen, preventative noninvasive treatments that I have had, etc. However, which of these is the “secret”?
Genetics. Could it be simply genetics that helps some people look younger? We all know that genetics plays a part in our looks. However, we have all seen siblings that age at very different rates. Also, there have been studies using twins to compare anti-aging treatments that have found differences between the aging. So, although it contributes, I don’t think that that is the deciding factor.
Skin Care. There is almost always difference in the skin of someone who has taken care of their skin and is on a skin care regimen and someone who has not. We all know someone who barely washes their face and has great skin, but that is the exception to the rule. Particularly, a regimen with retinols or retin-A seem to make a difference.
Preventative treatments. We are seeing more and more preventative treatments, like skin tightening treatments to prolong the need for a facelift or Botox to prevent forehead lines. This makes sense that preventing things like skin laxity or wrinkles will be more effective than treating them.
Sun exposure. Although I think it is a combination of everything, I think this is the biggest, most preventable factor. Differences in generalized skin texture can be found in different regions that correspond with the climate and local culture regarding working outside and sun exposure. Studies have been done that find an increase in wrinkle formation and reduction in collagen content in the left side of the face compared to the right, because we get more sun exposure on the left when we drive. So, sun avoidance, particularly from 10AM-2PM when it is brightest, wearing hats and using a sunscreen/sunblock combination of at least 30 SPF are the best things you can do to keep you looking young and vibrant!
photo courtesy of Dr. Angela Sturm
I use coconut shortening on my dry lips. And olive oil cooking spray on my body after shower and put my robe on for a few minutes. Wash off makeup with RO water only. And spray my face , usually in the summer with a bottle with RO water i spray my face. And use mayonnaise on my face before I shower. And so on and so on.