You could take a decade off your face by adding one powerful step to your daily beauty routine – no needles required, says a leading skin expert.
Dr. Saniyya Mahmood believes there’s one non-negotiable skincare ingredient that is “an absolute must for every single person, every single day”.
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The Medical Director of Aesthetica Medical Clinic says that daily use of it will banish wrinkles and has the potential to shave a decade off your face.
She urged women apply SPF religiously.
Sure, we’ve heard that it’s important to protect your skin when the sun’s out – but Dr Saniyya says applying it every day, without any exceptions, is a surefire way to age your skin backwards.
Yes, that includes in the winter and on cloudy days, which we have enough of in the UK.
Although the physical signs of ageing are impossible to avoid, SPF visibly reduces wrinkles and fine lines, while also protecting the skin from UV damage.
“Sunscreen is by far the most important skin care product to maintain long term skin health,” Dr Saniyya told GB News.
“It is essential in preventing signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots and pigmentation.
“A broad spectrum sunscreen is recommended (at least factor 50) to be used every single day come summer or winter.
“Not only does it prevent premature ageing, it also protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause skin cancer.”
Moisturisers with SPF contain UV filters, which are ingredients designed to absorb or reflect ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
The SPF number on the moisturiser indicates the level of protection it offers against UV rays.
For example, an SPF 30 moisturiser theoretically allows you to stay in the sun 30 times longer without burning, compared to unprotected skin.
Dr Saniyya also urged people to overhaul some of their eating habits to provide greater anti-ageing benefits to their skin.
“Vitamin C plays a major role in the production of collagen, so eating fruits and vegetables will help your body boost collagen levels,” she said.
“I recommend citrus fruits, like oranges and grapefruits.
“Tomatoes, red and green peppers, and dark green vegetables such as broccoli, kale and Brussels sprouts, are also fantastic for boosting collagen.”
There’s also drinks that boost collagen – and we’re not talking about the kind with collagen artificially added in. We’re talking about drinks that do it naturally.
“One of my favourite collagen–boosters is bone broth,” Dr Saniyya continued.
What is Collagen?
- Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and provides strength and structure to the skin and muscles
- It plays a significant role in maintaining skin elasticity and hydration
- As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin and decreased skin firmness
- Collagen production starts to dwindle in our mid-to-late 20s and early 30s. By 40, it has dropped dramatically
It’s important to note that while collagen-based skincare products may offer benefits, their effectiveness can hugely vary.
Some experts suggest that topical application of collagen may have limited effectiveness compared to other skincare ingredients that stimulate collagen production within the skin.
“Bone broth like beef, chicken or fish can be drunk straight up or used in other dishes like soups and stews.”
She also recommended herbal teas to “boost collagen” – such as green tea and even hibiscus tea.
“Hibiscus tea contributes to healthy skin and collagen production,” the doc said.
“Hibiscus tea is packed with Vitamin C which plays a huge role in the formation of collagen.
“It can be a great and affordable addition to your daily collagen-boost routine.”