If you are like me, keeping your skin (our largest organ) looking its best is something you value.  I am not going to be talking about injectables or laser treatments as I have not gone down that road. These are just simple and easily attainable strategies that may help to keep your skin glowing.  

Living in Southern California for over 19 years now has made me acutely aware of the sun. It comes through the window as I drive, attacks me when I am picking up my children, and loves to make me squint. Don’t get me wrong, being able to be outside is one of the reasons that I moved here, but as my grandma Rose used to say, “For every advantage there is an equal and opposite disadvantage.” (Pretty wise for an Italian immigrant who never studied science.) Therefore, my top priority is sun protection!

I have had some luck with the products below and certainly would love to hear what works for you. 

Products:

Arbonne RE 9 skincare line:  Known for being safe, pure and beneficial, Arbonne's skincare line for anti-aging is known to help reduce signs of aging.  My friends raved about it so I became a representative and bought the line to see how it worked.  Representatives get a large discount.  We still have to pay tax and shipping, however.  After three months, I believe my skin looks brighter and fine lines have reduced.  I have not used any other products while doing my trial.

Vitamin C serum: I have used Vitamin C with amazing success. Skinceuticals seems to be the brand to beat but the price is high. I’ve tried other less expensive ones and have not had as much success. Fresh serums are the key. If they have turned an amber color by being exposed to light, they can actually harm your skin. I toss mine.  It's painful to do so after spending $$$. Increase your sunblock as it can make you a bit more sensitive to the sun.  When I use, I put my serum on at night and sunblock in AM.

Oils like Grape seed, Coconut and Argon: Any of these can be used at night to help with skin’s moisture.  Oils are big these days and I believe with good reason.  Most are not pricey and get the job done without added chemicals. 

Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer (illuminating) This is $42 dollars so it is pricey. I use it because it is an easy way to get a glowing complexion with moisture and an SPF of 20. I have stepped away from heavy foundations as the years have passed since I do not like anything settling in my face. Sometimes I just take a little and mix it with my sunblock so I do not look pasty white.  

Sunblocks:
Chemical vs Physical barriers: I have and use both. Physical barriers are the way to go when you need protection immediately and do not have 15 minutes to have your sunblock activated. Yes, physical barriers use Zinc oxide or Titanium oxide so you will most likely look white if you do not rub in.

Chemical barriers take activation time. Most products say fifteen minutes. I love La Roche Pose sun care and have used it for years. The melt-in products really do melt in. You will not feel like you are wearing a mask.

Frownies: Aah…another hippie idea that has been around awhile. I like them because they help you to not contract the muscles in the face that cause wrinkles. Botox does this but I don't use it.  I know that when I put my triangle "frownie" between my brows, that the stress for the day will not be as obvious on my face.  There are actually other brands that I prefer on Amazon that do the same thing but feel less like you stuck a post it between your eyes. 

Secrets of Japanese skin care:  ( Book) I have read many books on Japanese skin care and believe that they have some key practices that are crucial to great skin as we age. They are diligent about sun protection, sleep on their backs, use lymphatic drainage, and eat lots of healthy oils.  I like to press my thumbs on the inner portion of my eyebrow bones since I find I hold a lot of tension there.  These are all natural ways to prevent wrinkle formation.

Save My Face Pillow: Some people believe that sleeping on a silk pillow is the way to go to avoid those little face wrinkles that we wake up with. I haven’t got mine yet but as soon as I do, I’ll let you know my thoughts.  Sleeping on the back is also recommended if possible.  

Hats: What started out as a way to get my former red hair color from turning brassy has turned into an obsession. I keep hats everywhere. Yes, you can hit your head on more things when the brim is too wide but it is worth it. Prevention still rules when it comes to anti-aging skincare!

Scarfs:  I use these light, infinity scarfs by Calvin Klein which I got at Marshall’s, I think.  They get looped around my neck when I am driving to help prevent wrinkly chest skin.  It also adds some nice color to the face which is always helpful as we age.    I would love it in an SPF fabric but don’t want to pay the high prices.  (Hmm…maybe I shall make myself…..)

Beautypedia: Paula Begoin, aka the beauty cop, has an amazing site that reviews skin care and make-up products. She also sells her own line of products. She is a wonderful resource when you are standing at a cosmetic counter and wondering if the $$$ product is really worth it.  Of course, everyone's skin reacts differently to products so your personal opinion is the most important!  https://www.beautypedia.com/