You have heard the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.  In this case, an ounce of prevention can preserve your skin. 

It is possible to preserve your skin with a consistent and targeted maintenance program.  This is imperative in any anti-aging program and can insure you will not need more extensive procedures later.  A good maintenance program should consist of four categories-products, sun protection, nutrition, and general care.

Products include not only the basics like cleansers, toners, and moisturizers but targeted clinical products that contain active ingredients proven to help reverse DNA damage, stimulate collagen, and antioxidants.

Sun protection not only involves a commitment to using sunblock but also a commitment to reducing incidental exposure with hats that protect the full face, neck, and chest instead of a visor.  You can also preserve your skin by blocking the sun coming through the car windows.  A key factor in sun protection is that you need to make smart choices regarding your tanning options.  Skip the tanning beds and sunbathing and go for the sunless tanning products instead. 

Proper nutrition is imperative to having beautiful skin as the skin is a reflection of your inner health.  A healthy diet provides the nutrients your body needs to do repairs and regeneration on a daily basis as well as plenty of antioxidants for your COMP.

General care is a broad term I use which encompasses everything else.  You should be checking your skin on a weekly basis for any changes that may have occurred.  Once a year your doctor should look over your skin for anything that looks suspicious.  It is important to see a professional for conditions such as acne.  Early treatment can prevent scarring which can be difficult to eliminate later.  Regular deep cleansing facials can prevent enlarged pores, increase collagen production, hydrate the skin, etc.  These treatments should be maintained at home with regular mask treatments. 

Consistency is key in making sure you get the most out of your maintenance program.  No matter how old you are or what condition your skin is in, regular maintenance can make visible and dramatic improvements.  And if you don’t take care of you, who will?