How to slow skin damage

Model Carol Ndanu gets her moisturiser treatment by Liz at Weavers Salon & Barber shop in Nairobi on March 31,2011. Skin damage does not occur instantly. Start protecting the skin from the sun by applying sunscreen and avoid late nights, alcohol, drugs and smoking. PHOTO| FILE| NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Hormonal changes coupled with poor skin care habits will wreak havoc on the skin
  • An inexpensive but effective routine consists of using a mask every week to deep cleanse

Skin damage does not happen overnight. The blemishes, acne, uneven tone happen over a long period of time. It is a gradual process.

It may not be noticeable for some years, but the signs will surely become evident as we grow old.

It is easy to take your skin for granted when you are in your 20s.

But this is the best time to take care of your skin because factors that cause future problems start in the 20s.

Hormonal changes coupled with poor skin care habits will wreak havoc on the skin.

Start by protecting the skin from the sun by applying sunscreen and avoid late nights, alcohol, drugs and smoking.

BALANCED DIET

This is also the best time to establish a simple skin-care routine of cleansing, toning, and moisturising. Make sure you remove your make up to give your skin a chance to breathe.

An inexpensive but effective routine consists of using a mask every week to deep cleanse.

Avoid the use of skin lighteners at this stage because the damage they do to your skin will be difficult to reverse.

For example, using steroids will make your skin addicted to them. It will be extremely thin and be prone to sunburn. It will age rapidly.