forever young naturally beauty

A glass of red wine is naturally antiaging, but so too are grapes and oil extracted from their seeds and stems. These are rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, potent antioxidant reservatol and wound-healing OPCs (oligo proanthocyanadins)— natural antiaging superstars, more protectively antioxidant than vitamins A, C, or E.

Look for off-the-shelf skincare products containing extracts of the herb rhodiola if your skin is exposed to polluted cities or endures long and stressful working hours that can kickstart premature aging. This herb enhances the body’s ability to perform well during periods of physical exhaustion and recover from the negative effects of environmental stressors.

Research suggests the constituents of carrots - beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene - could reduce intensity of sunburn. Look for offthe- shelf products containing carrot seed oil to stimulate skin cell renewal and protect against freeradical damage. Aromatherapists rate this oil for its ability to reduce age spots and wrinkles and for toning while promoting elasticity.

When green tea is applied topically after sun exposure, research has shown that it reduces the degree of sunburn as well as the extent of DNA damage. It also protects from the aging effects of exposure to environmental toxins. Use a cooled cup of green tea as a toner, to mix clay masks, or to throw into the bath.

Richer even than green tea in antioxidants is white tea. Research suggests it can prevent oxidative cell damage that causes wrinkles and reduces immunity. Look for it especially in leave-on products applied over large areas of the body.

Packed with antioxidants, honey makes a gently effective cleanser that preserves the skin’s natural oils. Its humectant properties (drawing moisture to the skin) suit it to masks, too. For skin healing look for manuka honey. Living Nature’s manuka honey-based products especially suit mature skin. Or try preparations based on royal jelly. Fed to the queen bee and thought to be the reason she lives 40 times longer than the worker bees, this is one of nature’s most nutritive materials, containing no fewer than eight amino acids and nine vitamins. Try Burt’s Beeswax and Royal Jelly Eye Creme.

Thalassotherapy centers expound the benefits of bathing in bodytemperature sea water for maximum uptake of marine nutrients, and use unrefined salt crystals or sea salt mixed with antioxidant seaweed for body wraps. At home, sea salt is good for gentle skin buffing (ideal for mature skin), since it dissolves when it meets warm water.

Skin tone and texture often alter during and after menopause—you might notice an unfamiliar tightness, red patches and other signs of sensitivity. A careful daily facial care routine can minimize the effects of hormone changes.

Be vigilant about cleansing skin of makeup and grime before bed. Tiny traces can irritate eyes and lead to blocked pores and a dull complexion.

Never pull or drag mature skin when applying cleanser. Rather, cover your fingers in the cream or oil, lay your hands over your face, press gently, then lift your fingers away one by one, in a rolling action. Repeat to cover the face and neck.