//This post contains links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! The products mentioned in this post are the ones I use (not gifted). Photo in this post is from Pinterest (creator unknown). Supplementation after the age of 40, in the opinion of health-experts, is essential for healthy aging and more youthful glowing skin. And I´m so with them. No matter how healthy and balanced our diet is, as we age it is impossible to satisfy all of our body's needs through food alone. Mineral called SILICA, that´s a pretty intriguing ingredient as far as skincare goes, is the one to consider to intake regularly as supplement, especially starting after 40 and beyond; + it's aimed at those with sensitive skin—such a growing and relevant concern nowadays. However, there´s so much more what to love about this frequently called "beauty mineral"... I discovered Silica a few years ago, in an anti-aging course I attended at that time to rejuvenate my body. Silica was one of the mandatory supplements there, and the more I learned about this mineral, the more I wondered why I had never heard of it before, since it is such an important mineral not only for beauty, but also for health. Continue reading to find out more... SILICA (SILICONe) Silica, naturally occurring mineral that in supplements mostly comes from horsetail plant or bamboo, is not only good for the skin, but as well for arteries, bones and overall wellbeing. A 2016 study by Sao Paulo University, Brazil reported that silica helps form the building blocks of collagen, an important protein found in your skin, blood, cartilage, muscles and ligaments. "Beauty Mineral" - is extremely important for the quality of the skin !!! It is suggested that Silica is important for optimal synthesis of collagen and for activating the hydroxylation enzymes, important in the formation of collagen network, improving skin strength and elasticity. Silica is also associated with the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans (molecules found throughout the body, including skin, joints, blood plasma, and the mucous membrane of various organs). Silica sits inside collagen, acting as glue, providing strength, flexibility, and resilience to connective tissues. It has such a tremendous impact on skin regeneration—silica is strongly linked with healthy youthful skin. This wonder mineral also works to keep other minerals in balance, such as calcium and magnesium, which plays an important role in keeping our hormones balanced, too. Silica is very good at creating bonds between protein molecules and it helps skin retain water. Crucial for cell repair and renewal. Silica provides that strength, flexibility, and resilience for connective tissues, making it imperative for the healthy teeth. Remember, Collagen is one of the most abundant protein in your body. And Silica is collagen's hype girl. While collagen provides the framework for our bones, silica strengthens these bonds and makes them more mobile. Silica is required for both building and then absorbing collagen, helping to glue collagen together. Works as an anti-inflammatory: Silica is a natural anti-inflammatory that may help relieve skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. And is definitely anti-aging: While it will take time to notice a difference—anywhere up to 12 weeks— numerous impressive benefits you should notice right away, including a brighter complexion and youthful glow, firmer skin with more elasticity (or "bounce") as well as generally more hydrated skin. It also helps to reduce facial pores, blemishes, and wrinkles. It helps as well the red blood cells carry 20 percent more oxygen! And because of that, the skin stays more hydrated as well. Skin starts glowing and issues like acne, eczema, or psoriasis begin to disappear. Concerning the hair, it is suggested that strands with higher silicon content tend to have lower falling rate and higher brightness. Nails are also affected by the presence of Silica, since this element is one of the predominant mineral in their composition. The presence of soft and brittle nails can indicate systemic deficiency of Silica. By the way, we should take in mind that by improving the quality of nails, there is an increased protection against nail infections. 6 MORE ABOUT SILICA: 1. For those science buffs. A recent study showed that silica helped women’s with sun damaged skin. After they took 10 milligrams of silica daily, their skins rough texture was improved. There’s data behind silica. 2. Silicio has the ability to "stick" with pathogenic microflora (fungi, bacteria, viruses and remove them from the body !!!), and this does not apply to beneficial microorganisms. 3. Plays an important role (!!!) in calcium absorption. 4. And it also does a good job of helping to absorb magnesium (Mg), chlorine (C1), iron (Fe), sodium (Na), ceps (S), fluorine (F), zinc (mn), cobalt ( So), manganese (Mn), chromium (Sr) and other of the 81 elements we need ... 74 are digested with silicon! 5. Silica is the third most abundant trace element in the human body after iron and zinc 6. Silica gives you a glow because it is a strong carrier of oxygen, and it increases the transport of both nutrients and oxygen to the skin IN FOOD: A large amount of silicon is found in unpolished rice, nuts, bell pepper, oats and prose, in wheat bran and bread made from coarse flour, in silicon corn, spinach, onions, celery, carrots, cucumbers, white cabbage and even strawberries. Keep in mind that while silica is an important mineral, you also need magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, copper, and many more. Meat food prevents the intake of silicon in the body, despite being the source of this (raw) micronutrient. So, it's good to know; fruits and vegetables that contain vegetable fiber improve silicon absorption, but animal protein stops! Also, all refined foods do not contribute to the increase in silicon serum. If you decide to take this wonderful mineral, you have to do it 3 to 4 hours before a meal with meat or refined food .... only then will silicon be able to do good things that "he" can! HOW TO TAKE: Health experts recommend to consume Silica Dioxide from 100 to 600mg per day ... It is friendly with Magnesium and vitamin B5 (can be taken together with silica during the fasting hours (for those on Intermittent Fasting) with a large glass of water). SIDE EFFECTS: Silica supplements can be derived from bamboo or the horsetail plant. Horsetail may not be for everyone, and it may have contraindications in diabetes and pregnancy. Now Silicon dioxide, on the other hand, is generally safe. When in doubt, it is better to consult your holistic healthcare provider before starting any supplement regime. Silica is contraindicated in people with kidney or heart disease or fluid retention. WHERE TO BUY: I buy Silica at iHerb.com, there are always discounts and promotions, and this is the place where we can find a huge variety of the best brands in the world! If you decide to buy on iHerb, feel free to save with discount code AQW5924. GREAT OPTIONS FOR SILICA SUPPLEMENTS: (both options are vegan, no-GMO, gluten-free) World Organic Silica 500 Special formulation combines the whole herb with all natural flavones found in spring horsetail, plus an extra high potency extract to provide a balanced source of plant-based silica. For adults, take one (1) to three (3) tablets daily, preferably with meals, or as directed by your healthcare professional. Available on iHerb: € 23.50 / 200 tablets KAL, Silica Plus 600mg Silica Plus™ contains 20 mg of Hydrophilic Colloidal Silica, plus 37.8 mg of Horsetail Silica, providing Maximum Absorption! For Hair, Skin and Nails. ActivTab™ technology guarantees tablet disintegration within 30 minutes, in accordance with USP standards. Available on iHerb: €13.64 / 90 tablets the Takeaway Overall, Silica is a very important mineral for skins youth, that stimulates good overall health and improves bodily functions. It´s my favorite mineral actually! And I take 500 - 600 mg daily in 3 months courses 3 times per year. So practically all the time. If you are not on this mineral, you definitely should. Strive to consume your daily dose of silica through effective supplements + healthy food choices to benefit from Silica on everything mentioned in this post above. And make sure you combine this mineral with other nutrients and vitamins. Are all silica benefits enough to convince you to start taking silica supplements? Share your ideas with in the comment section below! //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem.

//This post contains affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! Gifted products are marked with asterisk*. Main photo of this post is created by me. Product photos from linked websites. The obsession and widespread satisfaction of gaining a flawless skin with glow is everywhere. Almost everyone wants to look healthy radiant and glowing. But many times it gets really hard to put on makeup without having greasy/exaggerated look or on the contrary, dry mask-like look. As we age, our skin changes – from more fine lines and wrinkles to less elasticity, changes in skin tone and texture, and much more. But that doesn't mean you can't feel beautiful and confident in your skin today and for days to come. Maybe you're already addressing new skin concerns by tweaking your skin care routine to include some anti-aging products, and this is the perfect place to start. Now it's time to adjust your makeup routine to make your skin glow today and beyond. Which makeup products are my youthful glow getters, on my almost 44? The ones that transforms me in more youthful glowing looking, and I tirelessly recommend for everyone with 40+ or 50+ and beyond? Sharing in this article few of my most-loved makeup products you may wanna know about + the most important makeup artist tips for your smoothest makeup with so needed natural glow. MAKEUP TIPS FOR MATURE SKIN - 1 - SKINCARE IS EVERYTHING! Bad skin is always difficult to make look really flawless and beautifully healthy. I know that, I have been there... I´ve made so many mistakes, till I got that the proper cleansing, regular exfoliation, moisturizing, applying active ingredients and using sunscreen will not only help a bare face, but will also make it easier to create that radiant, smooth and glowing makeup. Especially important skincare routine part is exfoliation. Nowadays good peelings are not only for to remove dead skin cells, but as well smooth the skin and rejuvenate. And of course, we can't forget the hydration and good nutrition from within. Without this you can't get it... especially if you're 40+ or more... *Post you may love - 17 Anti-aging Skincare tips or Live LONGER & HEALTHIER Lifestyle Steps. - 2 - ALWAYS START WITH HYDRATED SKIN As we age, our skin becomes dryer. Make sure you are hydrating properly before any makeup application. Dryer skin tends to accentuate fine lines, wrinkles, and texture. Hydrated skin will help to plump these areas, resulting in a smoother makeup look. Remember, skin hydration is needed even if you have oily skin. You just need to reach for water based moisturisers. - 3 - LESS IS MORE One of the most important tips to keep in mind when applying makeup to mature skin is that less is more. Makeup artists are all on the same wave here - heavy complexion products like concealer and foundation can settle into fine lines and wrinkles, so lightweight products are preferable for mature skin. Even better, if everything applied in thin layers. So, it´s just one more important one to remember - heavy makeup just will make you look older. - 4 - NO TO THE MATTE FOUNDATIONS Simple and easy - shows more fine lines and wrinkles. And this is something we all definitely do not want, right?! + matte foundation will make your skin look dry and lifeless. - 5 - SEEK OUT LIGHTER/HYDRATING FOUNDATIONS So, the makeup artist one of the top whole grail advices for skin after 40 is - wear less of a medium to full coverage foundations to achieve a more naturally radiant look. Go as light as you possibly can. Creamy, luminous formulas are best suited for mature skin. "Matte products on complexion, cheeks and lips can look very dry and aging, but anything with a little sheen will make everything appear more plump and hydrated,” says professional makeup artist Jenny Patinkin. For fresh, even-toned, well-hydrated look, pick formulas that include moisturizing and hydrating ingredients, like the ones I am sharing more below. * To know Jenny Patinkin go here - 6 - GO FOR A SLIGHTLY WARMER FOUNDATION We've always been told to choose a foundation shade closest to our natural skin tone, but turns out that when foundation matches mature skin too closely, it can actually make you look washed out. Instead, makeup artists recommends to choose for a shade that's just a touch warmer than your natural skin tone to add overall warmth. Pro tip: When applying, don’t forget to blend along your jawline! - 7 - PRIMER IS A MUST? Good primer will not only make foundation sit better on the skin, but also help diminish the appearance of pronounced wrinkles, fine lines and smooth out the pores, leaving you with a silky smooth skin. There are primers for all different skin types, so choose one that best suits your skin. If you have oily skin, you might want to use a primer that is oil-free so it can help keep your base looking fresh but not too shiny. If you have drier skin, then locate more hydrating primers or pruning oil to help get a nice glow to the skin. Yet, celebrity makeup artist and groomer Georgie Eisdell says, "I would not use oil-free or matte primers on more mature skin, as you want as much hydration and glow to the skin to keep it looking youthful and dewy. Matte primers are not going to give you that finish, and oil-free ones tend to matte the skin too." *To know Georgie Eisdell go here - 8 - GO MINIMAL WITH POWDERS Makeup artists point that the wrong powder can add too much texture, make us look cakey and took the life out of the skin. Skin is alive and should look dewy and touchable, they say. Knowing that, I put powder just a little bit on the places I need to fixe the makeup. And I never leave house without a powder for some retouch during the day, in case any greasy "moment" happens somewhere on my face. To set, you can use a microfine powder to extend the longevity of your makeup. See below the all the great options. - 9 - APPLY EVERYTHING IN THIN LAYERS Starting light and building up color will help you achieve your desired effect without piling on product. The less product that is there to settle into fine lines and wrinkles the better. Always apply foundation first and use concealer sparingly to add a bit more coverage where you need it. - 10 - ABOUT BRONZERS Aim for natural sun-kissed look. Avoid anything too shimmery or glittery. While a touch of shimmer can help make mature skin appear radiant, too much can actually end up accentuating fine lines and wrinkles. Choose formulations with complexion boosting benefits. If you have 50+ or very dry skin makeup artists recommend bronzers that comes in cream forms. Pro tip: Try reaching for a hydrating, illuminating formula that's about two shades darker than your skin tone for the best results. + You can use 2 shades darker foundation as your bronzer! - 11 - DEFINE YOUR EYES AND LASHES As you age, the skin around your eyelids becomes more prone to lines and wrinkles, and you may notice a loss of density in your eyelashes. May sound strange, but to bring life back to the eye area, most of the makeup artists recommend matte shadows as the best option. For brighter eyes, try sticking to lighter colors and also keep the darker shades towards the outside of your eyelids. As much as you may love the dramatic eye look, it´s better to avoid any dramatic lines and try lining your eyes along your upper and lower lash lines with a dark gel pencil. This almost imperceptible technique is enough to make a noticeable difference without overloading the eye area. For an extra touch, makeup artists suggest adding natural-looking false eyelashes to really highlight your eyes and lightly applying mascara. PRO Tip: to make your eyeshadow look perfect all day long, let eyeshadow primers do their job. Just like a face primer creates the ideal base for the rest of your face makeup to stick on to, an eyeshadow primer targets the eye area and makes whatever you put on top more vibrant and perfect looking all day long. I my-self discovered this makeup tip recently, makes huge difference and is now an incredibly necessary product in my makeup bag. - 12 - LIP LINER IMPORTANCE Lip definition generally softens with age, which means lip products, especially on 50+, are more likely to bleed into the skin around the lips. And exfoliation is a savior here. Pro tip: Just like your body and face, you need to exfoliate and moisturize your lips. You can use a scrub (made for lips) or a soft toothbrush to exfoliate your lips before applying your favorite lip balm or lip mask. Then, simply apply a moisturizing lip liner before applying lip products to prevent smudging and bleeding. - 13 - THE POWER OF BEAUTIFUL BROWS It's natural for body hair to begin to lighten and sometimes thin out as we age. If your eyebrows appear sparser than before, try using brow-defining products to make them look instantly fuller and more defined. If your brow hair is light and sparse, you'll want to use a super precise eyebrow product to fill them in. The microfine brow pencils creates light, thin flicks that mimic the look of natural brow hairs. Bonus: Having this much control makes defining arches and filling in sparse spots a breeze. Be careful to not go too dark and dramatic; as I call "the plastic-look brows". SOME OF THE BEST MAKEUP CHOICES, ALL GOOD FOR MATURE SKIN (primers, foundations, powders and bronzers) *my combo type skin is light with neutral undertones, prone to some redness and visible pores. - PRIMERS BY TERRY Hyaluronic Hydra-Primer This one is not for glow but to smoothen, correct and improve the appearance of the complexion. Skin feels fresh and so ready for your favorite foundation. Increases well durability of makeup. Good for all skin types. Available on Lookfantastic: €48.95 /40ml (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) CHANTECAILLE Ultra Sun Protection Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Primer* Clean beauty Delicate rose-scented sunscreen + primer; its youth-prolonging and skin-fortifying formula is infused with cherry blossom, lemon balm and white tea extract (how beautiful, right?) - all opulent in antioxidants and soothing agents. Because of Carnosine in it skin gets more firm and supple appearance. It blurs out the fine lines rather efficiently and gives the skin a calming sensation. Beautiful clean beauty product forms a great base for make-up. Can be applied all alone without any moisturiser and/or serum underneath…so, it’s great option for skincare-minimalists. Good for all skin types, especially for dry. Available on Lookfantastic: €102.45 /40ml (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) TOO FACED Plump & Prime Luxury Face Plumping Primer Serum Infused with Coconut Water and skin-reviving ingredients, this visibly plumping and volumizing primer serum can be worn alone or under makeup for healthy-looking flawless finish. Silicone-free nourishing formula melts with the skin effortlessly delivering hydrating and soothing properties. I so love the dewy look I have with it. Good for concerns like dryness, pores and uneven skin tone. Suits well all 40+ skin types. Available on Lookfantastic: £34.00 \ €39.00 / 30ml (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) RARE BEAUTY Always An Optimist Weightless Eyeshadow Primer The delicate eye area is one of the first places to show signs of aging, and any hint of dehydration can accentuate the fine lines around our eyes. So its important that the eyeshadow primer is hydrating as this one by Rare Beauty. The peach-tinted formula blends seamlessly, keeps eyeshadow from fading and creasing + blurs and smooths the eyelid area. This will last for a long time; you just need a tiny bit to apply on clean, dry eyelids, blend with fingertips, and the apply your fave eyeshadow. Available on Sephora: £20.00 -FOUNDATIONS BY TERRY Cover-Expert Foundation My big love! Multi-benefit liquid foundation that I’m constantly repurchasing again and again. Gives visibly younger, smoother and natural looking dewy look. Love that it comes with SPF15, blurs amazingly well imperfection, evens out skin tone and beautifully illuminates complexion. Non-cakey and non-masking. Brand claims it as full coverage with matte finish, but I feel it more as medium coverage foundation with natural glow look finish. Comes in few shades. My shade 7 Vanilla Beige Available on By Terry: €46.00 / 3+5ml CHANEL Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation Fine, silky texture for natural dewy look. Almost invisible to the eye, beautifies the skin with the healthiest glow. Long wear formula that protects from external aggressors such as pollution, comes in 35 shades. My shade B30. Cons: one thing I don´t love about Chanel, this brand is not cruelty-free. Available on Sephora: £45.00 \ €52.45 /30ml SURRATT Dew Drop Foundation This is absolutely stunning one for mature skin. Light-to-medium coverage foundation gives luminous, shear satin finish that’s glowing in all the right ways while boasting impressive staying power and hydration properties. The multiple shades make it easy to find a individually perfect fit; I use shade 5. Cons: the so innovative packaging with claimed unique delivery system doesn´t work very well. I would say - worst packaging of the year. The product comes out too slowly, and to get out the liquid you must depress the dropper hard several times that gets punctured after some time because of the nails. Available on Lookfantastic: €60.95 / 19ml (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) CHANTECAILLE The Future Gel Foundation * Foundation blends like a dream and “hugs the skin” in the best way possible for beautifully natural skin-like finish with subtle glow and luminosity. Contains 60% water and seaweed, oil-free ultra-lightweight formula rich in botanicals such as aloe, chamomile, rosemary and green tea transfers moisture into the skin, boost immunity and prevent water evaporation. Calming and soothing, is great option for sensitive skin. Buildable base that provide adjustable coverage (medium-to-full), has light-reflecting pigments in it, that successfully ease the appearance of imperfections so everything looks more flawless; sets down nicely on my combo skin making my pores look almost invisible. Available on Lookfantastic: €83.95 / 30g (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) TYPOLOGY PARIS Tinted Serum * Light, fluid, tinted serum, that somehow feels like a premium sheer coverage foundation with a naturally luminous, airbrushed transparent second-skin finish, but without the price tag. Doesn’t clog in pores nor fine lines. With Vitamin C, plant based Squalane and Aloe Vera it’s brightening, moisturizing and protective, doesn't include ingredients that are likely to cause problems for reactive/sensitive skin. It’s vegan, silicone free and fragrance free; 99% naturally-derived tinted care is suitable for all skin types. Cons: Retouching is needed during the day. As on the end of the day may move in more oily face areas like around the nose. Available on Typology Paris: €26.50 / 30ml MZ SKIN Tint & Protect* Lightweight tinted moisturizer with blurring second-skin technology and hydrating cocktail of Hyaluronic Acid and Kahai Nut Oil + Vitamin C and SPF 30, makes my 40+ skin look youthful, dewy, flawless, and most importantly, protected from UV rays. Blurs out imperfections so well, I’ve no need for the primer or more coverage. Mature, dull and lifeless skin, this is for you. The best multifunctional skin-perfecting tinted moisturizer I’ve ever known. Just apply on clean skin and go. No need for other serums, creams, primers and foundations. Fabulous skincare minimalism for drop-dead-gorgeous-skin. My all time favorite makeup product. Available on MZ SKIN: €124 /30ml (save 10% site-wide with code `mz0cp0ct6z`) - CONCEALER TARTE Creaseless concealer The best concealer I know. No creasing in fine lines and wrinkles here! Absolutely non, even on mature skin with wrinkles. Plus leaves with beautiful dewy and luminous finish. Definitely long lasting. Well done Tarte! My shade: 20S light sand Available on Sephora: £26.00 \ €30.00 - POWDERS BY TERRY Hyaluronic Hydra-Powder Hydrating loose vegan powder for smoother and younger looking skin. Great for fixing makeup without drying out the skin. there´s new version now with exclusive technology 8HA, infused with 8 types of hyaluronic acid! It´s beautiful natural-looking matte finish powder that smoothes fine lines, visibly minimise blemishes and absorb excess oil. Available on Lookfantastic: €48.95 (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) LAURA MERCIER Translucent Loose Setting Powder A talc-free version of the globally renowned loose setting powder. Soft and silky lightweight formula gives naturally luminous finish. Blurs imperfections without adding weight or looking cakey. Love! Available on Lookfantastic: €31.45 (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) CHANTECAILLE Perfect Blur Finishing Powder* Long-lasting gel powder, infused with a special combination of optically correcting pearls and blurring spheres to filter out imperfections, really smoothes and perfects the complexion without drying it out. This powder is super smooth, finely milled, and not powdery on the skin. The biggest surprise - I can use this even under my eyes and it looks beautiful. But still, I don’t go heavy with it…I apply a very light veil to get softly-filtered-but-natural finish. *available in two shades, mine is light/medium Available on Lookfantastic: £72.00 | €83.95/ 8g (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) - BRONZERS TOM FORD Soleil Glow Bronzer Gold Dust Iconic Tom Ford Bronzer. One of a kind that give the skin luxurious touch of sun kissed look. Comes with mix of plant-derived butters nourishes and softens the skin. Provides skin with protective and hydrating layer. Available on Lookfantastic: £54.00 | €62.00 (save on Lookfantastic up to 24% with DD2022) CHANEL Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sun- Kissed Powder This one to fall in love from the first apply. Gives natural and glamorous sun-kissed glow finish. Powder-cream texture formula is enriched with mineral waxes and beeswax for second skin effect; brightens the skin with ultra-fine golden particles and blends out even easily. Comes in several shades. Mine is medium deep. Available on Sephora: £49.00 | €57.00 *Shop on LOOKFANTASTIC and save up to 20% off with code `DD2022` (affiliate code)

//This post contains affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! Photos in this post are created by me, some from linked website. Wondering why everywhere is such a buzz lately going on around the healthy microbiome importance? Health experts and scientists has discovered that 70% of our immune system (it´s really a lot!) depends of our Gut. The "gut " is considered the core of your body´s overall health and wellbeing that can affect your entire body, including digestion, skin, brain, and even, how fast your body ages! In this article, I share what I've found in my search for the latest scientific research on the role of the gut microbiome in anti-aging + why SEED is the best pre-probiotic supplement at the time. (photo) DS-01®Daily Synbiotic For Adults (18+) UNDERSTANDING MICROBIOME AND ITS IMPACT ON HEALTH Since there's a lot to unpack when it comes to the impact of the microbiome on overall health, I'll keep it super simple. Everything that enters our body mainly comes in the form of air and drink/food. Air goes in one direction and everything that needs to be digested goes in another. And here, the digestive system plays a crucial role, making sure everything is properly filtered, what is beneficial and what is not. When the digestive system is not functioning at its highest capacity, we face many problems. An imbalance in our gut health can lead to IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome), IBD (Inflammatory bowel disease), type 2 diabetes, obesity, food allergies/sensitivities, skin disease, heart disease, anxiety, depression... I could go on and on here, actually. As an imbalance in our gut ripples throughout our body and causes much more than just diarrhea or constipation. Scientists are constantly discovering new associations between our microbiota and our health. Microbiota existing within the gut plays a significant role in nutrient absorption, development of immunity, curing of diseases and various developmental phases. New findings around the gut-brain axis are emerging which indicate that our gut flora may even impact our mood, appetite, behavior, and circadian rhythm—functions we thought were relegated solely to the brain—where microbes do not appear able to take residence. gut Microbiome and aging A healthy gut is the foundation to good health, and good health is foundation to youthful long living. Or put another way, if your gut bacteria is out of balance, you cannot be fully healthy and wait for beautiful aging with wellbeing. Researches has shown that with advancing age the richness of microbial diversity shows a marked decline. As the intestinal microbiota changes with aging, an imbalance in intestinal microorganisms can lead to many age-related degenerative diseases and unhealthy aging. Lifestyle and environmental effects on our microbiota can delay (healthy ageing) or accelerate (unhealthy ageing) deterioration of our condition and foreshorten life expectancy. Understanding the relationship between the gut microbiome and healthy aging is fundamental to achieving systemic longevity. As an inevitable, age-related process, cellular senescence* can cause severe damage to the so needed hosts in our gut. Healthy Gut = Health = Anti-aging *Cellular senescence—a major hallmark of aging— as recent scientific findings suggest an intricate relationship exists between the gut microbiome, cellular senescence and skin health. With age our immune system becomes less efficient, senescent cells accumulate and taint healthy cells, and so making us vulnerable starting from all age-related diseases to accelerated skin aging. The gut microbiome is becoming a key factor in the aging process. Therefore, scientists speculate that the gut microbiota could be a new anti-aging target. So this recent investigation has discovered that having your healthy diet with added probiotic- and prebiotic-based therapies can significantly slow down the aging process in your body! However, the efficacy of pre-probiotics should be combined with healthy lifestyle habits that help target cellular senescence as well — exercise, healthy diet, good quality sleep and consumption of longevity supplements/nutraceutical compounds. Such efforts will aid in the development of anti-aging strategies to improve skin, systemic health and overall longevity for healthy aging. SEED - the evolution of Probiotics I'm over 40, and to be honest, I've been experimenting with different probiotics for years, jumping from brand to brand. Some that have high CFUs have caused bloating, stomach pain, and discomfort, while others have simply done nothing. even so called advanced medical probiotic dietary supplements, has been a disappointment. Bringing you closer SEED, probiotic that´s pure science. Supported by the top scientists and doctors in the field, SEED is science-baked company that has been involved in actual clinic trials. SEED Daily Synbiotic is a 2 in 1 capsule that contains a blend made of scientifically studied probiotic strains and polyphenol-based prebiotics. The collection of— wait for it —24 strains!, as well methods, and formulations that go far beyond what is found in typical probiotic supplements/foods such as fermented vegetables and drinks. Seed contains an impressive array of different probiotic strains. One good sign of the legitimacy of the brand is that they list the specific probiotic strain (e.g. Bifidobacterium longum SD-BB536-JP), rather than just the species (e.g. Bifidobacterium longum). Try Seed´s Daily Symbiotic by yourself, use code DD15 to get 15% off your first month´s subscription! (photo) DS-01®Daily Synbiotic For Adults (18+) The probiotic supplement to be able to survive the passage (stomach acid an all), from your mouth to your gut. Most brands don’t. Your probiotic also needs to contain specific strains with clinically proven benefits (most brands don’t). And even when you find a brand like SEED, that are clinically proven for survivability and efficacy, you still need to know one very important thing: Probiotics are like good guests – they visit your home, stay for a few nights, and then leave. So we need: Take them daily Eat a plant-based diet with the kind of fiber that good bacteria need to feed on (also known as prebiotics) Help your probiotics by choosing Mediterranean diet (MD) that positively influences gut microbiota Make sure you’re eating prebiotic foods, and taking longevity supplements to target better senescence cells; and for gut repair (if needed) For better results, take your probiotic supplement on an empty stomach to limit exposure to digestive enzymes and bile salts Polyphenols one of the most important plant constituents, have both been studied regarding their microbiota-modulating potential. They promote the growth of healthy intestinal microflora and have potential anti-aging effects. So, Yes to the polyphenols in your plate (the reason why to love blueberries)! Exercise! According to scientists, in general, exercise increases butyrate-producing intestinal microorganisms, enriches beneficial bacteria and improves the diversity of intestinal microorganisms, thus preventing obesity, maintaining the body's health and delaying age-related diseases. SEED'S DAILY SYNBIOTIC FOCUSES ON: Try Seed´s Daily Symbiotic by yourself, use code DD15 to get 15% off your first month´s subscription! THE BENEFITS SEED is one of the best things you'll appreciate having in your life. These “good-for-you super-organisms” bring some pretty healthy gifts! They interact with your immune cells, gut cells, and existing good bacteria giving you visible improvements pretty fast. Prepare to have your skin more clean, healthy and glowing looking. SEED is the first thing I recommend to everyone who is asking for advice on skin irritations, breakouts and acne problems. They help regulate your BM’s (Bowel Movement). And they help protect your intestinal permeability (super important for those with any autoimmune disease). They also produce short chain fatty-acids, which positively affect your gut and metabolic health. SEED just make you feel and look better. And interesting, its pretty speedy in results; after one month daily intake wait already beautiful improvements. Ease of bloating is the one you´ll feel at the very first two weeks. It can also significantly help with urogenital issues. And the biggest benefit is your mood. Since you gut is your second brain, when it’s functioning optimally with a balanced microbiota, you’ll feel more bouncy! SEED Probiotics are probiotics for real gut health... this is not the case when you take probiotics, without noting any visible improvements. They´ll even help you with your allergies. SEED has made it simple - you sign up for a monthly subscription, and they’ll mail you your refills so you never have to think about it again. It’s an investment in your future with well-being that is well worth your money. Remember, your gut is the foundation from which good health springs. Stress, age, unhealthy food, antibiotics, and ill health all take their toll on your gut health. Taking effective probiotics is ultimate self-care (as opposed to sick care). Invest in monthly probiotics, and I can bet you won’t get sick so often. Finally, getting sick, especially with age-related diseases, can be expensive, so let's PREVENT it!! Other facts why seed stands out: Seed's Daily Probiotic is the first to include probiotic strains that increase the production of folate which is important for pregnancy. It's vegan, gluten-free, preservative-free, allergen-free, vegan, and free from GMOs, binders, fillers, and preservatives. No refrigeration required-easy for traveling! And it comes with a free glass travel vial that fits a week's worth, so l never miss a dose. They created a sustainable refill system that starts with a beautiful, reusable green glass jar and continues with monthly gentle-to-earth refills. Available world wide. Try Seed´s Daily Symbiotic by yourself, use code DD15 to get 15% off your first month´s subscription! SEED'S 2 IN 1 TECHNOLOGY The truth is that many probiotic supplements never help our bodies because they cannot withstand stomach acidity, but SEED has developed a technology that protects against stomach acid, digestive enzymes and bile salts, provides viability through digestion, and provides an average of 100% of our probiotic starter doses in your colon The outer capsule also serves as an elegant barrier to oxygen, moisture, 0 heat - no refrigeration required. overall pros and cons of SEED PROS: Highly potent Effectively dosed Uses strains with research backing Safe inactive ingredients Currently engaged in clinical trials Superior capsule technology Great branding and packaging CONS: Relatively high probiotic dose may cause mild side effects in some individuals (On an FAQ section of Seed's website, the brand states that DS-01 may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, abdominal tightness, mild nausea or changes in stool during the first few days of use in some individuals.) DS-01®Daily Synbiotic For (18+) Available on SEED: 49,99$ / 60 capsules (use DD15 to save 15% on your first purchase) #ad #accountable THE TAKEAWAY The gut microbiome is becoming a key factor in the aging process. Therefore, science increasingly shows that the gut microbiota can be a new anti-aging target. Bacteriotherapy is attractive for the prevention and treatment of human medical diseases as well as skin diseases. The use of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics is a cost-effective and widely available intervention that may improve the homeostasis of your gut microflora and prevent frailty and unhealthy aging. SEED is both one of the best branding (they care not only about our microbiome, but as well about microcosm of Earth’s ecology) and with no doubt the best probiotic + prebiotic supplement to impact health in and beyond the gut. Seed´s probiotic strains can impact your health everywhere from your gastrointestinal tract to your skin to your heart. The big + here is that all strains are studied in humans and shown to deliver real positive outcomes. I highly recommend Seed Probiotics to anyone looking for healthy aging! It is an investment that will bring you both short and long term benefits. Remember that your gut is the bedrock from which good health and glowing skin spring. Give it a try and let me know what you think. Wishing you the healthiest gut, Love, DD //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem.

//Ad: this post is a part of my ongoing collaboration with the brand. More read on Disclaimer on About page. All the photos in this post are created by me, except the product photos from linked website. I only share products I personally use & recommend! Luxury British skincare brand, Argentum Apothecary, where science meets poetry and magic is in the air, recently launched the most unique alcohol-free eaux de parfums collection. An enchanting collection, that includes 13 different, kind to skin and hair unisex fragrances; where each scent unveils its own character and message - a magical archetype energy. While I feel connection with few of Argentum collection's scents and archetypes, the LOVER fragrance has my heart and is one of a kind for me... But before I tell you everything about the perfume I have chosen for me, let me share you first about this all-so-magical fragrance collection called les parfums infinis. Is this collection as fabulous as their silver infused skincare range? “By embracing our lives and the energies we attract, we can aspire to reach a beautiful balance ~ that place where opposites align and become one.” Joy Isaacs, Founder les parfums infinis — Argentum luxury fragrance collection where together with brands signature scent BECOME, twelve archetype symbolic images are captured in timeless scents that reflect the innate energies within us all; Argentum archetypes infuses the symbology of the elements of fire, air, earth and water with mystical and divine numerology, these magical fragrances amalgamates as 12 BECOME 1. -FIRE collection (powerful and masculine energy) - MAGICIAN, HERO, REBEL -AIR collection (masculine energy of thought and communication) - CREATOR, SAGE, RULER -EARTH collection (cleansing feminine energy of strength and solidity) - EVERYMAN, EXPLORER, CAREGIVER -WATER collection (feminine energy of fluidity and purification) - LOVER, JESTER, INNOCENT * Each element scents are packed in separate kits available on ARgENTUM website (each kit include as well brands signature scent BECOME). ARgENTUM archetypes * ARCHETYPES are the contents of our collective unconscious - symbolic images reflecting inherent energies, patterns that are common to us all. The positive-luxury fragrance collection is all created in la capitale mondiale des parfums*, beautiful town on the French Riviera, Grasse, by herself, Argentum founder Joy Isaacs and renowned perfumer Delphine Thierry, known as an expert in natural and organic fragrances. All the process developing each symbolic image into scent has took many years; and the end result is really impressive. All the scents are so perfectly characterized by the essence and energetic expression of its archetype; an incredible creations that provides deep sensory experience. “Our fragrance journey began with the creation of ‘BECOME’ ~ la potion infinie’s signature scent. After countless comments from people asking us to bottle this magical scent, we began to develop a collection of alcohol-free fragrances that embody the ARgENTUM archetypes. That was seven years ago.” Joy Isaacs, Founder Designed with patented Water Plant Emulsion WPE® Technology, these long-lasting super-fine fragrance formulations are with no chemical solvents and no alcohol agents unlike traditional fragrances. WPE® technology - innovative micro-emulsions of oil and water formulates a milky blend; beautiful combination of science and nature (all fragrances are more than 93% natural origin), where the scent formulations are loaded with active ingredients, making these fragrances actually good for skin and hair, and suitable for all skin types and ages. When it comes to packaging, oh it´s all work of art. Silver (as Silver Hydrasol) is the hero ingredient in the brand's skincare, so this precious metal also plays a very important part in this oh-so-magical eaux de parfum collection, making it even more special, collectible and giftable. Each deluxe size fragrance is filled in the bespoke ultraviolet glass bottles that protects les parfums infinis from the light and so extending their lifespan. Within each fragrance lid lies a 925 sterling silver talisman, hallmarked with the mark AG for ARgENTUM, the town mark (an anchor for the Assay Office Mark of Birmingham), and as well a letter relating to the year it was made (X is 2022). But most importantly these amulets (picture more below) are engraved with each fragrances archetype; beautiful talismans that can be collected and/or worn as a necklace or bracelet. “Argentum archetypes explore fire, air, earth and water. To reveal your energy, embody the fragrance and wear your silver talisman.” Joy Isaacs, Founder The visually black, sleek perfume bottle is housed in elegant minimal-style box, which is like a book; when opened, all the charming monochrome pop-up illustrations (by UK-based illustrator Joe Wilson) give that special feeling... like magical excitement. Especially lovable part about the Argentum - the fragrances collection, just like their incredibly powerful skincare line, is all sustainable and cruelty-free... The glass jars are re-usable and all packagings - recyclable. This is the brand that care deeply about protecting the Planet Earth. We are proud to have been awarded the Butterfly Mark** by Positive Luxury and to be recognised as a beauty Brand to Trust. No. II LOVER My journey with ARgENTUM fragrances started few months back with les parfums infinis Discovery Kit. The most gorgeous kit really (see more below), where, as everything from this brand, is thought down to the tiniest detail. This kit holds in all collections scents, and I enjoyed really a lot having the opportunity to smell absolutely every single scent. It´s an amazing work of art; an exclusive collection that stands out with its uniqueness in fragrance-collection world out there. ... and where the Water element No. II the LOVER has my soul... (image) with ARgENTUM's LOVER in Lisbons Botanical Garden - How this scent makes me feel/ NOTES: water floral musk Crystalline notes of crisp green geranium and pink peppercorn blend seamlessly into delicately sweet honeyed rose petals and crushed berries, enveloped in a translucent, airy musk. INGREDIENTS: 94.47% from natural origins Aqua (Water), Parfum (Fragrance), Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Saponins, Tocopherol, Limonene, Citronellol, Linalool, Benzyl Salicylate, Sodium Benzoate, Sorbic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Geraniol, Citral, Hydroxycitronellal, Eugenol, Benzyl Benzoate, Cinnamal, Farnesol. LOVER evokes a feeling of floating in veiled moonlight, a stream of roses finds a home in a luscious garden, bur-geoning with fruity raspberries, untamed pink peppercorn and earthy Angelica seeds. The enveloping warmth of the Iranian rose and Turkish rose absolute is mirrored in a classic Geranium note with a soft zesty twist. I adore how smoothly geranium leaves lemony freshness merges together with the delicate rose scents and raspberry vines, all followed by a base of earthy and musky notes that becomes more prominent after it has a chance to dry down, enveloping beautifully my senses. LOVER smells exactly like described on ARgENTUM — a lush garden after a summer downpour. A beautiful feminine scent with just the right amount of masculine notes. The balance between the masculine and the feminine feels so harmonious, resulting in a charming fragrance that's worth remembering. It's important that fragrance I choose reflects my personality, my character, my skin, and even my mood. Argentum´s LOVER is giving me it all. I adore "feeling" it on me and around me. This fragrance is both great as an everyday scent and as a statement piece. It´s delightful choice for a spring/summer perfume. Yet I see many floral musk note lovers enjoying this fragrance regardless of the weather outside. For me it will be interesting how I´ll feel about it on the colder seasons, when normally I love more powdery and slightly warmer scents like SAGE, the one that makes part of ARgENTUM Air element collection. Fragrance that belongs to the beauty shelves that´s all about healthy choices; for anyone who cares about skin health and overall well-being - ARgENTUM has created here beautiful water and plant-based oil formulation that not only doesn´t harm the skin nor hair, it really makes the sprayed areas feel more softer and moist. Super-fine spray of milky micro-emulsion that avoids skins drying and premature ageing, and is all safe even for sensitive skin. One more benefit compared to alcohol-based fragrances - this eaux de parfum is harm-free for the skin while in the sun. So I spray this fragrance on my skin with no worries even on the hot summer beach days. Being fragrance with no alcohol, but all-natural, it´s surprising how long-lasting the scent is on the skin. Seriously, you only need 2-3 spritzes and you're good to go. I cannot say the same about when on the hair, where I feel scent fades away little faster. Brand recommends to not spray this perfume on the fabrics because of essential oils in it, so I avoid doing that. (photo) ARgENTUM fragrance`s LOVER silver talisman both sides Overall, the ARgENTUM fragrance experience is like an exuberant self-love perfume ritual that inspires you to reach your inner balance. All the stunning packaging details, inspiring illustrations and balancing archetype energies, rises in me extra special feelings. The cherry on the top here for me is definitely the 925 sterling silver talisman that lyes in the fragrance's lid; with LOVER beautiful swans and full-moon in background, charming details that holds it´s special archetype message within. Beautiful collectable piece of jewellery, that completes so well my style, giving me curious glances and compliments. Swans symbolize love, devotion, romance, clairvoyance, inner beauty, grace, and elegance. The full moon phase represents completion, fertility, abundance, and transformation, when the seeds from the new moon come into bloom. THE TAKEAWAY If you're fully ready to board the ARgENTUM fragrance journey, the best to unveil this debut fine fragrance collection and to discover your archetype balancing energy and scent  — les parfums infinis Discovery kit, the perfume discovery set which allow you to sample all collections fragrances at once. And because this and other ARgENTUM kits arrive in decorative packagings, they’d make excellent gifts for everyone in your mind... While for perfume-collectors, it´s a delightful opportunity to create a distinctive bibliothèque de parfums. les parfums infinis Discovery Kit Available on Argentum Apothecary: £68.00/ (13 x 2ml) (save 20% off on any 70ml deluxe fragrance with a silver talisman, when you purchase one of les parfum infinis discovery kits) eaux de parfum LOVER Available on Argentum Apothecary: £228.00 / 70ML deluxe Skin-hair-and-planet-friendly, can it be more perfect? This is true luxury... Each time I receive anything from this brand, I have a feeling  — Everything ARgENTUM does is With Love. While it's my first fragrance review here on the Blog, I really hope you enjoyed it. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below :) Love, DD *la capitale mondiale des parfums (French) - the perfume capital of the world ** Butterfly Mark - an interactive certification mark for luxury brands that meet the highest of sustainability standards. The Mark also provides confidence that a business is operating in line with international standards and best practice, while pursuing innovation and making a considerable effort to go beyond ‘normal’ industry standards.

//This post contains affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! The showcased product in this post is gifted. It doesn’t affect the way I write or how I present my content. Photos in this post are created by me. The skin below your face deserves love too. Especially when you're joining the we-are-40 club. If you have been neglecting the skin on your body, this is the final time to start taking care of your body to delay as much as possible the day when you notice that there are sagging and wrinkles, and your body is not as young-looking as it used to be. The body care options, however, have always seemed basic. But happily body care is finally stepping into the spotlight in a big way, where body lotions are packed with skincare formulas equally potent as the face creams and serums. Not long ago I received body lotion, that made me pleasantly surprised how skin-changing it is. Dr SAM´s - one of my latest obsessions. There´s lot to love from this brands facial skincare, but today, as you already know, it´s all about their body lotion + with my thoughts and reflections. Are you craving for at-home skin-so-smooth body experience for your best summer-skin ever? Continue to read on... About Dr SAM´s But first, briefly about this UK based skincare brand founded by Dr Sam Bunting, who´s considered to be a beauty best-kept secret; London based dermatologist who has been trying to simplify skincare for those who struggle with troublesome skin conditions; after sharing her skincare wisdom via her YouTube Chanel for years, in 2018 she finally launched her own affordable skincare line to help everyone get closer to ‘great skin days’, how she likes to say. Dr SAM`s goods are cruelty-free and vegan, and by buying their products, you automatically contribute to The Girls Network. Dr SAM´s FLAWLESS BODY THERAPY AHA BODY LOTION* After a whole host of impressively successful facial skincare products, Dr Sam Bunting has moved on to the body category, and it couldn´t be more pleasing. HARPER´s BAZAAR Beauty Best-of-the-Best award-winner on 2022, Flawless Body Therapy AHA Body Lotion is a body-care treatment that's all inspired by face products, and is thoughtfully and scientifically formulated with skin-loving ingredients to brighten, smooth and rehydrate dry, dull and neglected skin. Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, this lotion is packed with 0,5% Bakuchiol (a plant extract that is a retinoid - brightens, firms and clears pores without irritation or sun sensitivity), 5% Niacinamide (brightens, clears pores and boosts skins barrier), 4,35% Lactic acid (AHA smooths and hydrates), Sodium Hyaluronic (superior salt form of hyaluronic acid), and as well ultra-hydrating Shea Butter and Squalane (both full with antioxidants and fatty acids). It´s a luxurious blend with actives designed to improves skin-tone, firmness, smooth dry skin and hydrate. Dr Sam Bunting guarantee, "This is the only body cream you need, to stimulate hydration and a radiant glow in the skin, while it´s the ultimate solution for rough bumps." (photo) Flawless Body Therapy AHA Body Lotion texture All INGREDIENTS: Aqua (Water), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Niacinamide, Lactic Acid, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Squalane, Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Tapioca Starch, Benzyl Alcohol, Bakuchiol, Polysorbate 60, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sorbitan Isostearate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Citric Acid. My thoughts Incredible skin smoother. Body lotion I´m truly obsessed with. Truth to be told, I didn't expect it to be so amazing, probably because of such an affordable price (37€ - 10% when used the discount code I share more below). I've had much more expensive body moisturizers that don't give half as much skin improvement as this gorgeous formula. After just one application, my whole body skin becomes polished-like beautifully smooth and so well hydrated. Even on my legs, where I´ve skin usually drier and rougher; with this formula I´m having silky-soft legs with an improved, naturally luminous appearance. When used once daily for about week, my combo type skin becomes firmer and healthier looking; and so dewy and plump to the touch. The texture is lovely and buttery, not greasy... a bit thick but not too much. Non-scented, so there´s no way it could tire my olfactory senses, or make any confusion with the fragrance I choose to spray on me during the day. As this body lotion contains an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), it may increase skin sensitivity to the sun. So it´s important during the day wear protective clothing, or/and on not covered body parts, apply a good broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Body care I recommend for everyone. Really! It is a formula capable to please all skin types and all genders. Even for oily skin types, as its non-comedogenic and will not clog the pores + Niacinamide will keep them stay clear. Especially great option for those looking to target the signs of premature aging, extreme dryness and even for those with Keratosis Pilaris (so called chicken skin). This is your lotion for smoothest summer-skin. The big plus - its affordable, cruelty-free and vegan. *Cons: doesn't sink into the skin right away, needs to be massaged at least for few seconds HOW TO USE: After showering, apply to damp skin to lock in the moisture for longer. Apply twice daily for maximum impact, concentrating on areas of key concern. Available on Dr Sam´s: 37€/ 200ml (save 10% site-wide with code GLOWYFACEINTHESHADOW) -If you have any questions or you're willing to share your experience with this Dr SAM's Body Lotion, feel free to write everything in the comments below :) Wishing You The Smoothest-Summer-Skin, love, DD //I am healthy anti-aging lifestyle and skincare-that-works enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem. * gifted product

//This post contains affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! Gifted products are mentioned with an asterisk* . Photo in this post is created by me. Summertime is upon us and, for many, this is the time when life gets more easy to live... Good mood, pleasant mornings, hot beach days, travel plans and tasty cocktails by the pool. Everything is so good! But, there are also a few summer-specific beauty-wellness tips and habits to keep in mind for summer-time full of well-being and healthy glow on your face. So, read on for all 11 beauty and wellness tips below: 1 - Coat Yourself Before You Put on Your Clothes The first one and most obvious - we all know we should use sunscreen, right?! But to guarantee that the skin is really well protected (and DNA) from the damaging effects of both UVA and UVB we need to look for sunscreen labelled as “broad-spectrum”; we should go SPF 30 or higher, and wear it even if it's not sunny, as about 80% of the sun's UV rays still get through on an overcast day. On your body, slather on a shot glass's worth of a sunscreen. For your face, you'll need another teaspoon. Remember, SPF needs a good 20 minutes to sink in before your skin is completely protected from UV rays. When you're about to be spread SPF on your face, you might as well choose a formula that can help with your other skin issues, too. If your skin is red or sensitive, choose one with anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as Dr SAM´S Daily Sunscreen with SPF 50. If you have brown spots, pick one with soy, niacinamide, or other lightening agents, such as U BEAUTY Multimodal Defender Broad Spectrum SPF30 (find links more below). Put your sunscreen around the eye area. The thin skin around your eyes needs extra protection. It's important to take this step even if you're wearing UV-protective sunglasses, because the reflection off the glasses can magnify UV exposure. Some dermatologists even suggests, that if you're outside for 30 minutes or more, then you should wear a chemical sunscreen (like one with Mexoryl SX or Parsol) topped by a physical one (with Z-Cote or titanium dioxide). By layering the two, you’ll eventually get both types of protection. The active ingredients in sunscreens can lose their potency, so check the expiration date, it's critical to start fresh each summer. And make sure you always carry one in your purse, for some reapply during the day. Sunscreens to love: Dr SAM´s The Daily Defence Duo (body + face) Nourishing, broad spectrum SPF 50 sun care for sensitive skin from heat to toe. Prevents early signs of aging, leaves zero white cast, for hydrated and glowing finish (these products can be purchased separately) - SHOP HERE (save 10% site-wide) U BEAUTY Multimodal Defender SPF30* gives broad spectrum protection with advanced anti-aging skincare benefits, flattering dewy glow finish and is worth the attention and admiration. Great one to fight, hyper-pigmentation, brown spots and heat-induced freckles. -SHOP HERE TYPOLOGY PARIS SPF50 Hyaluronic Acid/Aloe Vera* Light fluid sunscreen for face, I was so obsessed with last summer. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera, and formulated with mineral and organic filters, it provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and helps prevent photo-aging. Goes fabulously with make-up and skin feel so well hydrated. - SHOP HERE Dr SAM´s Flawless Daily Sunscreen SPF 50, gives great broad spectrum protection with 5% niacinamide, good for all skin types. Non-comedogenic, it wouldn´t clog your pores. Calms blemish-prone skin, and is excellent as primer. - SHOP HERE ( save 10% site-wide) CHANTECAILLE Ultra Sun Protection SPF 45* multitasking adorable delicate rose-scented luxury sunscreen + primer; its youth-prolonging and skin-fortifying formula is infused with cherry blossom, lemon balm and white tea extract (how beautiful, right?) - all opulent in antioxidants and soothing agents, can be used all alone without other serum or moisturizer underneath. Gives matte finish, and is great base for make-up. -SHOP HERE 2 - protect your lips Don´t forget your lips! This is area on the face most of us forget to protect. Since the lips are thin and lack melanin (a pigment that acts as a natural sun defense), they have less natural protection from the sun. Failing to wear a lip product with sunscreen daily allows UV rays to infiltrate the lips, leading to dryness, chapped lips, and sunburns. According to doctors, skin cancer in this area can be particularly dangerous, which is why everyone needs lip balm with SPF, "Your lips are just as susceptible to the sun's radiation as the rest of your body, which means they're vulnerable to skin cancer. Using lip sunscreen that filters out harmful UVB rays gives you protection from this often overlooked cancer and, in addition, provides much needed sunburn protection. Wear chapstick or lip balm that protects against the sun your lips." Lipsticks provide excellent photo-protection if they are completely opaque. As a matter of fact, turns out opaque lipsticks provide better photo-protection than SPF-containing lip balms because they have an unlimited SPF and excellent substantivity. However, lipsticks which are made of cheap ingredients or dyes present on the lipsticks are not safe and usually are more harmful to the skin. ULTRASUN Ultralip SPF 30 Fragrance-free lip balm with black currant seed oil that provides UVB and UVA protection. Hydrates well dry lips. SHOP HERE (save with code DD2022) 3 - Don´t Let Your skin burn It takes just five sunburns over the course of a lifetime to double your risk of melanoma. Do you a favor and do not burn your one-of-a-kind skin. But even if you don't get burned, damage from the sun occurs little by little over your lifetime and can affect your skin in these ways: Cell damage: You may think that the glow of a tan or sunburn makes you look healthy, but if you look at skin under a microscope, you'll actually see that the cells are damaged. ! The sun damage one received at age 16 stays for a lifetime. It is important to increase sun exposure slowly. This is particularly important for anyone who lives in a colder, wintry climate. In spring or summer, gradually increase exposure to the sun. This will give your skin time to respond by producing more melanin, which will offer increased levels of sun protection. In fact, any tan and coloration on the skin from the sun is a sign of damage. There’s no such thing as a safe tan, other than the fake variety. 4 - prefer SELF-TANNER, but be careful Don´t bake your skin in the sun's harmful UV rays for a tan, make a good self-tanner be your new best friend. It´s much healthier habit in the short and long term. Sunless tanners are a safer option because they tint the top layer of the skin that sloughs off in two to three weeks. Sunless tanners are deemed safe if their main ingredient is DHA, or dihydroxyacetone. Using them for sun-kissed look, limits the exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which accelerates the skin's aging process and increases the risk for skin cancer. Some research suggests that wearing self-tanning products in the sun may even accelerate skin aging. The authors wrote that with UV exposure, DHA and skin proteins interact and create free radicals, promoting oxidative damage. This study found that DHA-treated skin generates more than 180% additional radicals during sun exposure. So, if you use self-tanner, protect yourself from the sun as much as you can. One of the golden rules of self-tanning starts with your skin-care routine: Exfoliate beforehand. Just be sure to remove any and all residue before proceeding, so you can start off with a clean, dry, and product-free slate that'll maximize your self-tanning results, and so to avoid an uneven development. Exfoliation should be done 24 hours before the self-tanner apply. 5 - You´re not protected behind the Window glass UVB rays, the primary sunburn ray, are largely blocked by glass; but more than 50 percent of UVA rays (the main cause of premature skin aging) can penetrate glass! As a result, you will not be able to increase your vitamin D levels by sitting in front of a sunny window, though much of the “bad rays” of UVA radiation will penetrate the glass and may be harmful. * If you drive often, or you´re planing a vacation road trip—especially for long distances—you should apply sunscreen with high SPF. Scientists notes that skin aging and even cancer on the left side of the face and body is much more common as a result of people spending a lot of time behind the wheel. (A standard windshield will protect you from 100% of UVB rays and 98% of UVA rays. The tempered glass of your car's side windows, on the other hand, absorbs only a maximum of 65% of UV rays.) If you're not a driver, have some Vogue magazine by your side (or something else), to cover the sun's rays when they hit you. That´s what I do! And it doesn't matter, am I all covered in high SPF and that the car has UV protection glass, I always try to cover myself with my magazine, and I don't care what anyone else might think about it. In the end of the day, what´s important to me, is that my skin is always well protected. 6 - choose the right skincare You may not need to completely overhaul the skin-care regimen that worked for you in the spring, but if you’re looking to maximize your summer glow and prevent some common skin concerns, there are a few considerations to get your routine up to speed, whatever your skin type. The good news is, that the higher humidity in the air should help provide more moisture to skin. If you find that your normal moisturizer is too heavy this time of year, consider one that’s lighter, such as those that contain hyaluronic acid. Clear or gel moisturizers are more water-based than creamy or white moisturizers, which have more emollients to trap moisture. All skin types benefit from a generous application of sunscreen. Plus, whether you’re oily, dry, or combination, you’ll want to look at both your cleanser and moisturizer to ensure they’re the best choices for your skin this season. If you're the outdoorsy type, and you´ve sensitive skin you may want to take a summer vacation from retinols and heavy chemical peelings: they thin the top layer of skin and can make you vulnerable to redness and brown spots. But do not put your retinol treatment completely aside during the summer if your skin is not so sensitive, as dermatologists says, increased humidity means that summer is the perfect time to use a retinoid or retinol. Higher humidity levels help keep skin hydrated, buffering the chance of irritation. Choose a product with built-in moisturizers, which is often more effective in preventing irritation than layering a separate moisturizer on top. See a good option more below. If your skin on body or face is Acne-Prone, opt for a gentle antibacterial wash and gentle exfoliation. The number one ingredient to look for? Aloe vera. It has over 200 actives in it. Not only is it super-soothing, but it helps heal the bacteria that could be causing acne. If your skin is Oily switch to sacilic acid that helps reduce oil and banish blemishes deep within the pores, and look for a cleanser with glycerin to maintain appropriate moisture. If you have dilated pore issues that tend to increase during the hot days, exfoliate regularly with AHA peelings or masks (see amazing one more below). If your pores get really large, you may wanna skip the moisturizer. Instead of a cream, keep your skin hydrated with a spritz of a facial mist plus an oil serum. Doing this two-step mist then oil really lets your skin completely breathe through the summer. And if you’re worried about daily sunscreen application causing breakouts, look for a sunscreen that’s labeled noncomedogenic (meaning it is less likely than other sunscreens to clog pores). With Dry skin it´s more easy. If your Dry skin doesn’t feel different from winter to summer, then it’s not necessary to switch from creamy products to lighter gels or foams. Nighttime, that's when your skin's actually repairing itself from sun damage and everything else. For that, make sure your overnight skincare contains vitamin A, E, and C, or non-irritating Retinoids with humectants. few summer GO-TO skincare to love: Dr SAM`s Fawless Cleanser* With Aloe Vera, its gentle, soothing and hydrating. If massaged during 60 seconds, no double-cleansing is needed! It´s non-comedogenic and is fabulous for all skin types- SHOP HERE (save 10% site-wide) IPSUM ALII Skin Refining Gel* with gentle peeling technology, instantly clears away dead skin, unclog pores while promoting skin tightness and more luminous skin tone. Award-winning powerful formula with anti-aging and antioxidant properties, for polished, refreshed, thoroughly cleansed and glowing skin. A great option to use the day before before applying self-tanner. It's j-beauty innovative skincare where Japan ancient-time herbal medicine system and modern science are put together! It's amazing and I love it - SHOP HERE (save 15% with code DD15) ARgENTUM Apothecary ´la potion infinie`* Many will appreciate this unisex cream during the summer. Unique moisturiser with Silver Hydrasol and DNA HP, gives instant lifting, deep hydration and... any breakout? This cream will eliminate imperfections quickly. For all skin types, but acne-prone, oily and combo skin types will especially adore this one - SHOP HERE TAN-LUXE´s Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum is an innovative five-in-one treatment that has hyaluronic acid, cocoa seed extract, and raspberry seed oil to nourish and soothe the skin while leaving behind an otherworldly glow. Btw, all self-tan products of Tan-Luxe are amazing- SHOP HERE (save on Lookfantastic with code DD2022) Dr SAM`s Flawless Gossamer Tint SPF50 weightless, non-comedogenic and ultra-hydrating skin perfecting protection with fatty acids and antioxidants, all-mineral broad spectrum SPF. Suitable for sensitive skin - SHOP HERE (save site-wide 10%) Dr SAM´s Flawless Moisturiser* non-comedogenic gel-cream comes with 5% niacinamide, is good for all skin types, especially for problematic skin - SHOP HERE (save 10% site-wide) MZ SKIN Radiance & Renewal AHA Instant Clarity Refining Face Mask* My top summer essential. It just shrinks pores like nothing else just in 15 minutes. The exfoliating formula stimulates cell production, amazingly minimizes the appearance of pores, blurs imperfections and reduce the appearance of fine lines, leaving with much smoother, youthfully and glowing complexion. For all skin types, except very sensitive. Ideal for those with Acne-Prone skin, but it also helps those looking to treat hyper-pigmentation and uneven skin tone. SHOP HERE (shop through link and save 10% on all MZ SKIN skincare) MZ SKIN Anti-Pollution Hydrating Mist* packed full of active ingredients, can be the best face mist you´ve ever had. Shields against pollution, infrared and blue light, and boosts skins natural barrier function. Spritz after cleansing skin or as finish touch after all the skincare routine or make-up. For glass-like look glowing skin - SHOP HERE (shop through link and save 10% on all MZ SKIN skincare) Dr SAM´s Flawless Nightly PRO 5% Retinoid Serum voted "Best Serum" by Women´s Health Magazine, it tackles the signs of premature ageing, breakouts, pigmentation and uneven texture without irritating the skin. True Beauty Sleep! SHOP HERE (shop through the link and save site-wide 10%) ** For those with KERATOSIS PILARIS, sometimes called “chicken skin,” two fabulous choices to get fast smooth skin improvements: leVerden Bamboo Salt Luxury Body Care* - SEE HERE Dr SAM´s Flawless Body Therapy AHA Body Lotion* - GET IT HERE (save 10% site-wide) **all options above are suitable for all skin types **all featured brands are clean without harmful toxins **on some I make a small commission from your purchases 7 - choose alcohol-free fragrances Sunshine and perfume are not a very harmonious couple. Stains, irritations, burns… Choose alcohol-free perfumes for a safer fragrance experience this summer. Since alcohol and skin often don’t mix well as well, it’s worth considering the benefits of switching to an alcohol-free fragrances that are gentle on all skin types because they don’t contain fillers, chemicals, or alcohol, which can irritate or damage the skin’s barrier. *Sprayed directly onto skin, perfume is so aggressive that it undermines skin's ability to protect itself against UV damage. That means that perfume-covered skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage and ageing pigmentation. According to dermatologists, spraying perfume that contains alcohol and all other chemicals on your chest and neck and going straight out in the sun can cause a skin condition called Poikiloderma of Civatte. The appearance can be described as mottled, hyper and hypo pigmentation alongside broken capillaries. When it comes to fragrances that do not contain alcohol, this unwanted effect is minimized or even non! These perfumes are ideal for the sun, but that's not their only benefit! Alcohol-free perfumes are essentially composed of pure water and fragrance oils, as the one by Argentum Apothecary featured below. They are softer, lighter and much gentler for your skin. Butterfly-mark* ARgENTUM Apothecary long-lasting super-fine milky-like alcohol-free fragrance formulations, created in Grasse (the centre of the French perfume industry) with patented Water Plant Emulsion Technology, unlike traditional fragrances, helps soften and moisturize the skin and hair, and are suitable for all skin types and ages. From all-so-magical archetype ARgENTUM fragrance collection, on my taste, LOVER, JESTER, SAGE, EXPLORER and INNOCENT, all are so go-to summer scents to enjoy. For example, The LOVER, that´s one-of-a-kind for me, is freshly romantic fragrance with floral and musk notes (think - madagascan pink peppercorns, raspberry and rare Iranian rose), and is already the summer scent of mine. The cherry on top - all these non-toxic fragrances comes in so very gorgeous packagings, and all deluxe-sized eaux de parfums has its own beautiful 925 silver talisman that can be used as pendant. Discover ARgENTUM Apothecary all unisex alcohol-free fragrance collection HERE **Butterfly-mark— an interactive certification mark for luxury brands that meet the highest of sustainability standards. 8 - Eat your spf No, not the cream in a tube! But real foods that actually can help guard you from the sun! All because sunburn is a type of inflammation, and diet has a tremendous impact on inflammation in the body. Your diet can increase or decrease your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, as well as its ability to repair itself when it does get damaged. Probably the greatest amount of research is on tomatoes, which are very high in an antioxidant called lycopene. One study has showed that eating 40 grams of tomato paste a day reduced redness, swelling, and pain after UV exposure. Prefer tomato paste than raw tomatoes, as this is the way you get more lycopene from tomatoes. Another good source is delicious one — chocolate! — one another scientific experiment has showed that drinking cocoa with a high concentration of flavonols, the antioxidant found in cocoa beans, protected the skin from sunburn. But it needs to be at least 70 percent cocoa, the darker the better. Omega-3s in fish like salmon also increase natural SPF. Cranberries and walnuts are a rich source of ellagic acid, another antioxidant, which has been shown to fight sun damage and premature aging. They block the formation of enzymes that break down collagen and elastic tissue. Veggies, like leafy greens, berries, beans and black tea, all are rich in antioxidants and can give you good protection from within to avoid inflammation and free radicals in your cells. Fight the sun from inside out Take a supplement with the key ingredient as Polypodium leucotomos, a fern extract; studies have shown that it helps guard skin from UV damage and even decreases redness after sun exposure. Take the recommended dose in the morning if you know you'll be outside for long periods of time, but keep in mind that you still have to wear plenty of sunscreen. You may wanna try LIFE EXTENTION Shade Factor comes with niacinamide, Polypodium leucotomos extract and Red Orange Complex®. Supplement to support healthy skin before, during and after you spend time outdoors. -SHOP HERE (shop through the link for small savings) OTHER ESSENTIAL SUMMER-SUPPLEMENTS Summer diets may not always provide adequate amounts of certain nutrients, that´s why certain supplements can be very helpful to ensure that you get the necessary nutrients to support your immune system, maintain healthy skin, and boost overall well-being. See below the list of most important summer supplements to add on your diet daily to feel and look at your best during the summer months: PRE-PROBIOTICS - All you eat or drink, the trillions microbes that line gastrointestinal tract interact with all the food, making huge impact on overall health and well-being. SEED’s DS-01™ has been a game changer for me, so with busy summer plans/ traveling/changes to my routine, I like to make sure I’m staying on top of my gut health. That´s why I´m putting it on first place here. SEED’s ‘DS-01™ Daily Synbiotic’ always with me whenever I go; it’s formulated with 24!! strains that promote gut health, skin health, digestive health (to support healthy regularity and ease of bloating) and supports not only gastrointestinal health, but whole-body health too. Gives me healthy glowing skin already after 1 month intake, making me wanna go super-light when it comes to foundation choices. SEED DS-01™ Daily Synbiotic Save on your first purchace 15% by using [ DD15 ] at checkout. SHOP HERE OMEGA 3 - these fatty acids are great for hydrating and protecting the skin, thanks to their anti-inflammatory benefits. Research has shown that fish oil supplements can even reduce sun-induced inflammation and may provide sunburn relief (but no, that is not a reason to ditch the SPF). VITAMIN C - for support your energy and immune health. Help prevent hyper-pigmentation. VITAMIN E - provides extra protection to your skin from harmful sun rays. It can also keep your skin hydrated. BIOTIN- an important nutrient that the body needs to metabolize fatty acids, which are the building blocks of healthy skin cells. PANTOTHENIC ACID - In addition to helping your skin repair itself from damage caused by summertime UV rays, vitamin B5 also strengthens the skin barrier. This barrier protects the skin from bacteria that cause inflammation and acne. It also gives your skin a healthy, subtle glow. COLLAGEN POWDER - One more great way to naturally defend your skin against sun damage during summer months. Collagen helps replace damaged cells, hydrating the skin and giving it a protective barrier. The best ones are which contain vitamin C and has at least I and III type collagen. ACTIVATED CHARCOAL - When ingested, activated charcoal binds to drugs and toxins, aiding the body in flushing out harmful substances. Great one to intake when having summer-vacation meals you know are not so healthy. Take charcoal at least 30 minutes away from food to avoid inhibiting nutrient absorption – an hour or two or simply 'in between meals' is best. Food + charcoal = lost nutrients. BERBERINE - to control possible glycation spikes + both are related to combating aging and age-related diseases. MELATONIN - take these on your vacation and and all the travelings. You never know when your body will need the help for to get a good resting sleep. VITAMIN D - As we all go heavy on sunscreens, that affects how much vitamin D your skin makes from the sun. To avoid this sun-vitamin deficiency, vitamin D3 it is! For anti-aging benefits, take K2+D3+Mg combo. 9 - protect your hair | wear hat Even if you are not suffering from a bad hair day, a sun hat can save you a lot of time, especially when you are not in the mood to style your hair. Yet Sun Hat can give you much more than that. Prolonged hair exposure to the sun can damage the cuticle of your hair, that´s the outside cover of the hair strand. You may notice sun damage to your hair when it starts to show discoloration, dryness, brittleness, or broken/split end. Wearing a hat is one of the best ways to protect your hair from the sun. Keep in mind that there is no cosmetic product that will act as total sunscreen for your hair. So, make sure to invest in good sun hats to protect your long beautiful locks. 10 - protect your eyes | wear sunglasses Do not think only about style when it comes to the trendy sunglasses. Alarming stats, given that long-term sun exposure of the eyes can lead to photo-keratitis, cataracts, macular degeneration, and cancer of the eye and surrounding skin. The good news is that eyewear brands are catching up quickly— most sunglasses come with a label indicating both UVA and UVB protection. And then there's dirt, pollutants and sand. They can cause irritation, discomfort and redness in the eyes. Happily you have your favorite sunnies on, that prevent such particles from entering in your eyes. 11 - hydrate wisely Simple water is not enough for Hydration. Water with freshly squeezed lemon, with apple cider vinegar, or with added cucumber, ginger or cinnamon. All options will be great depending on your body needs. The important is to drink 2- 2,5l per day, and drink it with electrolytes, especially with sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride - some of the most essential electrolytes to the function of the human body. Your kidneys are constantly working to prevent electrolytes from being lost in your urine, so that they can be recycled and keep the electrolyte concentration of your body fluids normal. However, if you vomit, sweat excessively, or have diarrhea, things that often happen during the summer travelings, you lose huge volumes of fluid at once, and with it, all-so-needed electrolytes. So, it is very important to keep up with your hydration wisely with electrolyte balance in check to stay healthy and feel good all the time. 12 - GO out AND BREATH Stress-defying molecules that´s in the nature´s air help cells fend off ageing! A deep-breath-of-fresh-air is good for digestive system and immune system, recharges energy, improve serotonin levels in the body, is anti-aging and is good for mental health. In addition to reducing acne, breathing deeply fresh air can actually make skin appear more glowing and youthful. + when we breathe deeply, our lymphatic and circulatory systems are engaged. This promotes cell regeneration, a key component of achieving glass-like skin. Also, mindful breathing can promote improved gut health. While you inhale the fresh natures air, you breathe in phytoncides, airborne chemicals that plants give off to protect themselves from insects. With these "happy chemicals", your body respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells or NK. These cells kill tumor-and virus-infected cells in our bodies. What about the Ocean? For many, summer means lots of time at the beach. Breathe in the salty air! Sea/ocean air, which contains iodine, salt, and magnesium, encourages respiratory health and can reduce the symptoms of asthma, promote respiratory health, improve allergies and skin problems, stimulate the immune system, mental health and reduce the signs of aging. —— Try the breathing technique I practice always when in nature, or when I´m by the ocean: I Inhale nature’s air until my lungs are completely full…hold the air in as long as I can; ideal up to 1 minute… and then expire (5-4 reps like this daily is enough) Enjoy! Wishing You The Best Summertime, love, DD //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem. Some sources: https://www.dermatologytimes.com/ https://evolutiondermatology.com/services/ https://www.healthline.com/ https://elizabethsummer.com/ https://selectsalt.com/ https://www.dec.ny.gov/index.html https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/

//This post contains affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! Gifted products are mentioned with an asterisk* . Photo in this post is created by me. Naturally chubby cheeks and baby-plump skin... many after their 40`s unfortunately are loosing it-all slowly without knowing what to do. So today, it´s all about the facial volume; how to prevent it´s loss, what causes it and what to do... The plump, voluminous contoured face of our youth is due to optimal cellular function and fat pads. So, fat is good in our face. Can be bad if it´s too much or if you´re having too much weight, but it can be great if in harmony, as like on our 20´s. The fat pads in our face are so very important for looking youthful and good. Image by DD. I´m 43, on my 1.75cm hight with weight of 65kg, my face is pretty full. All aesthetic doctors I´ve been to, always think I´m having some cheek fillers. Well, I am not! One friend of mine, that is also one-of-those-skincare-obsessed like I am, asked me once, what am I doing that my face is so chubby on my age. This made me think, "am I doing anything special that causes my full cheeks?" I decided to do some research about this theme, and I found some interesting things... As turns out, there is a lot we can do at home by ourselves to bring that fat back in the areas we need the most. But the most surprising part for me was about What-Not-To-Do... for example, about skincare devices. What happens, there´re some well known treatments that actually can ruin our precious face fat and so make us lose so needed facial volume making us look older! Read below to know it all.... CAUSES OF VOLUME LOSS and what to do AGE & SUN Youthful faces in general have rounded features, a healthy fullness, and smooth, tight skin. But as we age, skin volume declines, often unevenly, much like a grape turning into a raisin. The process is called “soft-tissue atrophy” and results in: sagging skin, wrinkles, hollows and withered soft tissues. While we age, we have increasing in the body different kind of collagen killer factors like MMPs, matrix and metal proteins. Because of that, our body ramp up and doesn´t make as much collagen as needed to stay youthful and plump. Our bodies begin to lose collagen when we turn 30. The effects become noticeable after several years. Even though this is a natural process, UV exposure speeds up skins aging process. SUN, as you might already know, KILLS COLLAGEN, which is why the under-eye and neck areas are the first to show it, because the skin is thinner and more delicate + lots of people forget to put sunscreen on these areas while they're still looking good. Over time, destroyed fibers by the Sun's ultraviolet radiation lose elasticity and the ability to contract after stretching, and so the skin is no longer in good tone and tends to lose its healthy fullness. HEATING DEVICES This one might surprise you... Heating devices like Ulthera, a high few Radiofrequency, Thermage and so on, all those tightening with heating treatments are not as good as we might think, especially if you need to preserve the fat in your face. "A great device can harm people!", says plastic surgeon Dr. Anil Rajani "Ultrasound, high frequency or even RF micro-needling devices, and many others devices - as skin tightens with these heating devices, it´s perceived that there´s loss of fat. However, the devices themselves can cause the fat loss. You need to know who´s doing your treatment, and what device is being used", he continues - "Certainly heating the skin can cause fat loss and fat shrinking, but we want this effect in some areas and not in others. If you´re in a good professional hands, he´ll rarely do the heating devices the same on all areas of your face." You may say, but I look better after these treatments! Turns out that this good tightening effect tends to disappears after around 4 months, and you realize that somehow you look even worth than how you looked before the heating device care. All because the face fat has been diminished! *I'm so so glad I haven't had any of above mentioned treatments after my 40's. I remember doing some Radiofrequency many years ago, but happily not much. TOO MUCH EXERCISE Exercise - One of the best "drugs"on Earth for our seratonin, for our body, for our hormones, testosterone, skin and so on... However, we talk here about intense exercisers. The ones that run frequently more than 15km, or bike 40+km. The problem is, they get facial waisting! + normally, what happens when they run or bike for long distances? - they´re in the Sun! So its a double hit! They tend to look older in the face. You may say, but I put always sunscreen with SPF50! Well, this will protect against 50% of the sun during hour or two. The solution - cover yourself as much as you can and try to not run or bike for extremely long distances. POOR NUTRITION High process food, high sugars, very high carbohydrates; a poor diet can lead to malnutrition which can result in the loss of subcutaneous fat in your cheeks. Dehydration can also give your cheeks a hollow appearance. A lots of people can´t afford to eat organic, non-GMO and so on... But we should try our bests. Nutrition plays a big role here. Even if you think you eat well, there might be not enough REAL food, veggies, good fat and the right fruits. Bone broth, berries, nuts and seeds, foods that contain vitamin C, antioxidants and omega 3, and of course a good collagen powder (type I and III)- all these help preserve collagen or boost its production. Some supplements like krill oil, ceramides, silica, vitamins C and E, Aloe Vera and organic MCT oil also can be very helpful to maintain these youthful looking chubby cheeks. *avoid yo-yo diets! lack of skincare & massages The good news is - Fat wants to grow back in our faces! Fat wants to regenerate! By applying daily our favorite moisturizer, we´re doing a big one here. Even better if it´s great high-organic moisturizer with some active ingredients. And MASSAGE! to increase the blood flow and so improve the fat... So there´ll be the double-active skincare routine. Below sharing few moisturizers that-does-it-all, are suitable for all skin types and all formulas comes with active ingredients that will please every single one of you :) *Btw, massage can be done while you cleanse your skin as well. **Make sure you search for well-done face massages on some PRO contents. MOISTURISERS TO LOVE: - Dr SAM´s Flawless Moisturiser (save 10% site-wide) - comes with niacinamide, it´s great option for problematic skin - SHOP HERE - ARgENTUM apothecary ´la potion infinie*- anti-aging, firming and super hydrating; moisturiser with Silver Hydrasol and DNA HP that does-it-all-so-magically. Can be acne/breakout prone skins saviour - SHOP HERE -MZ SKIN Hydrate & Nourish (save 10% site-wide)- comes with retinol, ceramides, hyaluronic acid and SPF 30. Boosts collagen and deeply moisturises - SHOP HERE - IPSUM ALII Nourishing Adaptogen cream*- my latest discovery to adore. Ultra-hydrating, replenishing and stress-balancing, j-beauty marvel where Japan ancient-time herbal medicine system is together with modern science- SHOP HERE (save 15% with DD15) ** all options above are suitable for all skin types **all featured brands are clean without harmful toxins **on some I make a small commission from your purchases Environmental causes Smoking, stress and pollution. All these produce free radicals which break down collagen and elastin, reducing the “Biological Velcro” that holds our tissues up and prevent gravitational descent. This is one of the reasons why face fat pads are getting shifted down with the time, so making us look more saggy. And we absolutely do not want that!!! So good detox diet here and there, or some everyday green tea or matcha always will be helpful. Are you stressing?- try GABA supplement - like the one HERE GOOD Treatments Blood Draw The vampire facial, also known as micro-needling with PRP, is a cosmetic procedure that involves drawing blood from your arm, separating platelets and applying them back onto your face. Platelet rich fibrin, no additives... It forms a fibrin clot and you get slow release of growth factors. Studies has shown, that this procedure has many benefits, including younger looking skin, and is only gaining in popularity. Works amazingly well as rejuvenating on fat pads, as the stem cells can grow whatever these platelet rich fibrins are around. Sculptra Sculptra® is a type of dermal filler, which is a cosmetic procedure to smooth fine lines and deep wrinkles. Sculptra is a gel-like substance made of poly-L-lactic acid. A healthcare provider will inject this filler underneath your skin where you want a fuller or smoother appearance. So it´s a great one to volumize and tighten the skin. the takeaway As you see, you have some things you should avoid and several options to prevent and increase the face fat. During all the writing of this article and researches, I understood now why I´m having my cheeky face on almost 44 - I´m just doing it all right! I haven't yet done any of good treatments mentioned above, but already thinking to have some Blood Draw on my face for sure. Hope you found this all interesting and helpful, and see you on my next article that´s coming soon.... or, I´ll always be happy to see you as my follower on Instagram :) *Btw, don't forget to share this post with someone you know might appreciate to know about Facial Volume Loss! //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem.

// the photo in this post is created by me... if you have any interest, please contact me. Add Cinnamon daily to your coffee, tea, oatmeal/fruit bowl or any other favorite desert of yours (preferably sugar-free), and have a nice healthy anti-aging action boosted in your body everyday! Wanna know more? See everything below... In photo - sugar-free Oatmeal pancake with cinnamon and some nuts + extra virgin coconut oil capsule CINNAMON-beauty/health-booster Cinnamon - one of the best beauty-boosting spices on the planet, that until the 1800s, was considered as more valuable than gold! Now, anti-aging scientists has discovered that this spice, extracted from the inner bark of several species of trees in the Cinnamomum genus, is a true beauty and health marvel that actually, like potato peel extract, BOOSTS COLLAGEN type 1 production; in the case of Cinnamon, it happens because it contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde which has been shown to increase those collagen levels. Cinnamon is also potent source of antioxidants, and as you probably know, antioxidants slow down the aging process by protecting your cells from free radical damage. Skin INFLAMMATION is another prime age accelerator because it breaks down collagen. The antioxidants in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects that limit these skin flare-ups that cause premature aging. Provides ANTI-DIABETIC activity- Cinnamon is great in preventing glycation spikes that make us age faster. Excess blood sugar is more likely to react with proteins such as collagen in the skin which can lead to brown splotches or "age spots" as well as loss of elasticity and premature wrinkling. These sugar-damaged, very dangerous cross-linked proteins are called advanced glycation end products, or AGE! That´s why its always a good "thing" to add generously Cinnamon to yours sweets, even if its fruit (fructose makes glycation spikes as well) or sugar-free sweets. Amy Stockert´s, associate professor of biochemistry at Ohio Northern University Raabe College of Pharmacy, research found that people who consumed 1 gram a day of cinnamon saw blood sugar reductions comparable to what would be expected from prescription drugs. But she believes that even smaller quantities—like those used in cooking and seasoning—can also give pleasing benefits. Cinnamon contains compounds, known as phenols, which bind to Sirt-1 molecules. SIRT1 plays a critical role in modulating a wide range of physiological processes, including apoptosis, DNA repair, inflammatory response, metabolism, cancer, and stress. This yummy spice revs up the metabolism, reducing hunger and sugar cravings. A new study even suggests that cinnamaldehyde, (the same chemical compound that boosts collagen production), may also help burn fat cells! Beneficial to ageing BRAIN, Cinnamon contains compounds that appear to slow conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease. GUT-friendly: if consumed regularly, help restore the balance of bacteria in the gut. Cinnamon can also help to reduce inflammation in the gut, which is important for maintaining gut health. By reducing inflammation in the gut, cinnamon can help to improve digestion, reduce bloating and gas, and prevent leaky gut syndrome. Research suggests that the powerful antifungal properties in cinnamon could be effective in treating and preventing CANDIDA overgrowth in the digestive tract. It has been shown to lower amounts of dangerous candida albicans, which is the yeast that causes candida overgrowth and can cause a host of digestive and autoimmune issues. Cinnamon has also been known to have an inhibitory effect on enzymes involved in carbohydrate catabolism. Great spice to be added to drink after meals, cinnamon kills bad BREATH germs before they have a chance to kill a good conversation! Cinnamon can significantly reduce the severity, intensity and duration of period cramps. If you practice INTERMITTENT FASTING or other type of fasting, cinnamon is safe; when you stick to less than 1 tsp. of cinnamon during your fast, cinnamon will not break your fast. And so loved fasting coffee you can have with added Cinnamon for sure :) The type of cinnamon called Ceylon provides more health-promoting antioxidants than the type called cassia. However, cassia is the most common type found in foods and on grocery store shelves. **Additionally, many people often wonder: IS CINNAMON BAD FOR DOGS? While cinnamon is non-toxic to your furry friends, it’s best to stick to Ceylon cinnamon to minimize coumarin consumption and keep intake in moderation to prevent negative side effects. While cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, though cinnamon essential oil can be toxic for pups! -NUTRITIONAL PROFILE OF CINNAMON One tablespoon (about eight grams) of ground cinnamon contains: 19 calories 6.2 grams carbohydrates 0.3 grams protein 0.2 grams fat 4.1 grams dietary fiber 1.4 milligrams manganese (68 percent DV) 77.7 milligrams calcium (8 percent DV) 0.6 milligrams iron (4 percent DV) 2.4 micrograms vitamin K (3 percent DV) *Cinnamon also supplies a wide variety of important nutrients and is especially rich in fiber and manganese, along with several other vitamins and minerals. CINNAMON IN SKINCARE Cinnamon can be part of a healthy diet, there’s little research to support its topical use for anti-aging, skin lightening, acne, discoloration, or other skin issues. Even though it’s popular in homemade skin care products, it´s rarely found in commercial skin care products because it’s a common irritant. If you have very sensitive skin, Cinnamon use isn’t recommended. The potential cinnamon benefits for skin are rooted in its antibiotic and antimicrobial properties, which can help protect skin from irritation, rashes, allergic reactions and infection. One study indicates that applying cinnamon essential oil directly to the skin can be helpful in reducing inflammation, swelling, pain and redness. One of the benefits of cinnamon and honey, another antimicrobial ingredient, is that using both together can boost skin health even more and may be beneficial for acne, rosacea and skin allergies. You can use add either raw honey or Manuka honey for additional skin relief. the takeaway For me it´s the most delicious spice... And I´m having it really a lot in my diet, daily (1-3 teaspoons). Especially I love to add Cinnamon to my coffee. There´s no day I´m not having at least one, so called energy-booster-coffee (black coffee+ MCT oil or Extra Virgin Coconut Oil + cinnamon). It´s healthy, anti-aging, controls my blood sugar levels and its delicious way to have more energy in my body and brain. Sometimes I drink CINNAMON WATER when I need to low inflammation. It is not only hydrating, tasty and anti-inflammatory, but also supply an array of health benefits, such as: delivering antioxidant and anticancer properties, supporting heart health, lowering cholesterol, and potentially aiding in weight loss! Can be helpful with diarrhea issues. How to make it? - The only ingredients you need are a fresh stick of cinnamon and some H2O. Boil a bit of water and then cool to a simmer. Drop in the cinnamon stick and let simmer until the water turns a deep brown, up to 10 minutes. Take the liquid off of the stove, remove the cinnamon stick and let cool. If you´re willing to benefit even more, or you´re not a fan of Cinnamon flavor, you always can intake Cinnamon as supplement (up to 1g per day with the meals). *Scientists caution that above-average doses can worsen liver function for people with existing liver damage, and the use of cinnamon supplements should always be discussed with your physician. Some sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/ https://draxe.com/

// This article contains some affiliate links. The product photos in this article are from linked websites, except the one with me (cover image). Some info is Updated! Our environment and lifestyle choices can cause our skin to age prematurely. Scientists call it "extrinsic aging." Thankfully, we can slow down these unsightly skin aging processes by taking a few preventative steps and incorporating a smarter, healthier lifestyle choices. As a healthy anti-aging enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for the best skincare options. I've tried a lot... Feeling ready to share some of my favorites, that really do work. So check out the following 17 anti-aging tips that, if practiced regularly, can really improve the way your skin's looks already in 2023: (photo) Me with CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Mask -1- USE LED LIGHT DEVICES Get noticeable and natural anti-aging results in as Little as 10 minutes. Since I have led light device making part of my skincare routine, I feel huge difference on my complexion. LED light therapy promotes anti-aging effects and reduces inflammation. Gives an increase in the amount of collagen in the skin, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and other stigmata of aging. Acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, scarring and sun damage- LED light devices helps treat it all. The ones to love: MZ SKIN - by Dr. Maryam Zamani is a high-performance skincare brand, clinically-proven to deliver visible results. With MZ skin you´ll find the next level of luxe at-home devices - the LightMAX Supercharged LED Mask (pink)2.0 Red + Infrared or Blue + Red, to promote total skin rejuvenation. LED therapy that can help solve a plethora of skin concerns such as plumping and firming the skin, calming inflammation, diminishing breakouts and reducing hyper-pigmentation; The Light-Therapy Golden Facial Treatment device (golden) is a five-coloured LED light treatment that results in transformative radiant skin. The healing combination of five light modes, calms and rejuvenates the complexion while visibly diminishing hyper-pigmentation. Just choose the best for you and save 10%: Available on MZ SKIN: €709 - €501 (save 10% with code - mz0cp0ct6z ) CurrentBody - The Award Winning LED mask combines anti-aging therapy with red and near-infrared lights, to reduce wrinkles by 35% in just 4 weeks. Loved by many celebrities and featured in Vogue, ELLE and other magazines, is great Led light home treatment that gives visibly healthier and glowing complexion. Helps calm down the redness and inflammation. This is the one I´m using currently 4-5 times per week, normally after my pm routine. But can be used at am. as well. I love to use it after microdermabrasion peelings, derma rolling with serums and/or sometimes even after full skincare routine; helps all the skincare applied before, work much better, and so I get much more visible skin improvements. Cons: with the time, more frequent charging is needed. Available on CurrentBody: €322.00 -2- DO MICRO-NEEDLING Micro-needling, often referred to as dermarolling or collagen induction therapy, is where thousands of tiny little needles pierce into the surface of your skin via a rolling or stamping device. One of the benefits of using the Derma Roller is that it helps to stimulate new cell growth while also boosting the collagen and elastin required to smooth the lines and wrinkles. To take your results to the next level, use products that target hydrating, healing, and increasing collagen production. Post-rolling, serums with peptides and ceramides can help to further boost the anti-aging process. The best thing you can do on post-rolling is to use a sheet mask or overnight cream mask + LED light device mask. I use this kind of routine 4-5 per week. Results are really amazing! No time for the masking? I just apply my favorite serum, do derma roller little bit over the serum, and then moisturizer. To have permanent results use repeated rolling 3-5 times per week. Do it at nighttime before the sleep, because your skin will need time to repair itself, and is not susceptible to sun damage. The microscopic wounds you create should heal within 15-30 minutes, but derma rolling at night assures your skin gets the proper rest it needs. The longer the needles, the deeper the wound — and that means the longer the recovery time. Never make your skin bleed, do slight movements when rolling. If you're sticking to the evening regime, before the micro-needling, you may want to consider double cleansing to get rid of oil and all the dirt that's built up on your skin during the day. Because water is essential to the collagen-creation process, hydration is so important around the micro-needling procedure. So, glass of water before and after will give you much better results. By the way, this is great time to drink your collagen powder! It is extremely important that the next morning, after the pm routine with micro-needling, before going out, you apply your fave sunscreen, with at least SPF30. Derma rollers can be found online. You don’t need to overcomplicate things and get an expensive one. The cheaper ones will work just fine, like Brushworks HD Micro Needle Derma Roller great to start with, on Lookfantastic PT is for only €5.29 (if used code - DD2022) -3- SPLASH YOUR SKIN WITH COLD WATER Take a cold shower every morning to boost Dopamine and Serotonin, and increase energy levels... Or just splash your face with cold water for 5-10 seconds to reduce the fine lines and wrinkles on your face considerably. It also helps refresh the skin, and take care of dullness. Cold water can give the face a new lease of life, you can say. Since cold water tightens the pores, bacteria and debris can get trapped and won’t clear out as easily as using warm water, so it´s recommended to wash the face with lukewarm water first as a way to remove any makeup and pollutants from the day, and only then, end with a ice-cold water to tighten pores and promote blood circulation for a healthy glow. * Washing with hot water is bad for the skin. It strips your skin of its natural oils. This can cause your skin to dry out, which can set off a chain reaction: dry skin equals a compromised moisture barrier - which equals aggravated skin problems. -4- WASH YOUR FACE WITH GENTLE CLEANSER Cleansing your skin and thoroughly removing makeup, especially each night, is an important part of any effective anti-aging regimen. Free radicals, toxins, and impurities aren't removed from your skin without the cleansing well the skin. Double cleansing is always so recommended by dermatologists. For every night you don't cleanse your face, you are aging your skin by 3 months! Scrubbing your skin clean can irritate your skin. Irritating your skin accelerates skin aging. Gentle washing helps to remove all the dirt without irritating the skin, while preserves the skin barrier and keep it resistant to dehydration and damage. Gentle cleansers with a high pH like natural soaps are very harsh and can leave your skin vulnerable to irritation and infection. Cleansers or cleansing bars with a low pH, such as the one below by ARgENTUM Apothecary, cleanses the skin gently while restore the natural balance of the skin. `le savon lune’, ARgENTUM Apothecary soap-free cleansing bar, packed with some truly unique goods such as Silver Hydrosol, DNA HP and Bentonite (a colloidal clay made of aged volcanic ash). Its mild lather is creamy and hydrating; smoothly washes of impurities and makeup leaving the skin perfectly clean, balanced, healthy glowing and youthful! No signs of dryness or irritation. Absolutely safe for all skin types, even for the most sensitive skin. This Beauty Award Winner Illuminating silver cleansing bar, comes with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, the same as their cult moisturiser, ‘ la potion infinie ‘, is one of the greatest options for those with acne and breakouts issues. Available on ARgENTUM: £80.00/100g Dr. Sam's fragrance-free and vegan skincare simplicity is kinda fabulous and so effective, especially for troublesome skin. The Flawless Cleanser, an award-winning non-comedogenic jelly formula does just what a cleanser should do. Perfect for all skin types, including redness-prone like mine, with a single 60 second cleanse, it gently removes all traces of make up, dirt and pollution + clears pores without drying the skin. So I'm truly amazed, that I can go further with my pm routine without double-cleansing here + I get here high quality cleanser that works for pretty amazing affordable price. Available on Dr, SAM`s: £18.00/ 200ml (save site-wide 10% with - GLOWYFACEINTHESHADOW ) -5- REMOVE DEAD SKIN CELLS Exfoliation - my favorite part of pm skincare routine. Exfoliating the skin regularly helps our body produce more collagen and elastin, keeping the skin extra plump and ready to bounce back. This makes exfoliating a great way to slow down and even delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines! Our skin is made up of many microscopic layers of cells, but only the deepest level, called the dermis, contains living cells which are smooth and radiant. The well known AHAs are commonly considered to be exfoliating agents, however, the benefits of AHAs extend well beyond exfoliation. So loved by global aesthetic clinics, gives great dead cell removal, moisturization, reduction of wrinkles, firming and skin brightening. Alpha hydroxy acids also help stimulate collagen production, making it ideal for those wanting to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Here I favor the one you see below by MZ SKIN. Now, microdermabrasion scrubs offer some of the most hardcore exfoliations you can get without leaving your home. The micro tiny particles in microdermabrasion can penetrate the skin easier than larger molecules. They break down dead skin to help other skincare products to work more effectively and reveal a new, fresh layer of skin. The bests are professional grade microdermabrasion creams, like the one by Dr. Brant (see below). MZ SKIN´s award winner, vegan, highly effective blend of low level AHAs and Papaya Fruit Enzyme, removes dead skin cells, refines pores and boosts cell renewal on a daily basis, without being abrasive. Most importantly it prepares the skin for the ultimate absorption of serums and moisturizers. Can be used as a refining face mask for deeper exfoliation and more radiant skin. You´ll just love your skin after this so much - expect smooth, flawless, glowing complexion. Available on MZ SKIN: €16/20ml - €85/100ml (save 10% with code- mz0cp0ct6z ) Specifically designed to make you feel like you just stepped out of a clinic, this breakthrough Microdermabrasion Exfoliating Cream offers transformative brightening and smoothing results in just minimal time. Lactic Acid together with aluminum oxide crystals gently polish the skin and refine the surface to smooth away the look of fine lines and delated pores to reveal a fresh-faced complexion, instantly reviving skin's radiance. Lactic acid is a humectant, so it's also great for drawing water into the skin, giving the skin a plumper, supple appearance. Cons: not cruelty-free Once a week is enough for me, but can be used 2 times, to have all the good anti-aging benefits; on dampen skin gently massage cream into skin for 1 - 2 minutes, avoiding the eye area. After, just rinse well with lukewarm water ant pat dry. Available on Dr. Brandt: £64.00/60g -6- PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN WISELY It doesn´t matter where you go and what kind of weather is out there, sun protection is essential. UV rays pass through clouds and even through windows as far as UVA rays are concerned! So be careful all year long, and not only during the summer. Without a filter, the cells attacked during the day will have to work harder to regenerate in the evening and the face marks faster. What type of Sunscreen is safest?---According to dermatologists, the best and healthiest is a mineral-based broad spectrum sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, that provides safe, broad range protection against ultraviolet light and scatters and deflects the sun's rays away from the skin... Sunscreens to love are by Typology Paris and U Beauty, they not only protects in a healthy way, but as well gives great skincare benefits. This is as close as you can get to not wearing sunscreen while, you know, wearing sunscreen. It goes on completely clear, feels like nothing, and dries down to a weightless, skin perfecting finish. Non-comedogenic Dr. SAM´s Flawless Gossamer Untinted SPF 50 (there´s beautiful 4 tinted forms as well) provides all-mineral broad-spectrum protection that leaves absolutely no white cast and is perfect for layering under makeup. There´s no need for another primer. + we get here next-level hydration, non-clogged pores and beautifully glowing complexion. Suitable for sensitive skin. Available on Dr SAM´s: £35.00/ 50ml Positive luxury U Beauty, Glamour award winner, Multimodal Defender SPF30 is a next-generation treatment that not only offers broad spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, blue light rays and drying effects of the sun, but as well gives visible results in hyper-pigmentation, dark spots, heat-induced freckles, and fine lines +you get here lush like glowing complexion. An ingenious multitasking cream with U Beauty´s unique Siren Capsule Technology™, so perfect for aging skins protection and care. Available on U Beauty: £160/50ml (subscribe U Beauty website and save 20% off + free shipping: £128/50ml) Dr. Sturm´s molecular cosmetics are so loved all around on social media, and not only... Everyone is adoring this brands beautiful minimalist jars, yet the most exciting here are high-end science formulas that do work, and I´m strongly on the same wave. I had two little samples of these once-tried-never-forget Sun Drops. Innovative, light-textured SPF 50 sun serum with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection; loaded with active ingredients this serum protects as well from oxidative damage and calms the skin. Leaves skin radiant and glowing. Suitable for sensitive skin and...eyes! Many sunscreens are irritating the eyes, but not this non-toxing beauty creataed by Barbara Sturm. I definitely need a full sized ASAP! Available on Dr. Sturm: €50.00 - €130/ 10ml - 30ml (subscribe and save site-wide 15% on your first order) -7- PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM POLLUTION When it comes to the skin protection, many limit it to UV protection, while the pollution that is everywhere around us is actually very harmful, weakening our skin cells and tissues and thus causing us to age prematurely. Even young skin requires protection form free radicals. Urban people already know that cities are plagued by harmful skin aggressors. But those living in the countryside, should consider investing in anti-pollution skincare, too. Living away from busy roads reduces the risk of damage from fine particles and gases emitted by traffic. However, pollution can drift out from the cities to cover the countryside meaning the difference in air quality might not be as clear cut. MZ SKIN`s Anti-Pollution Hydrating Mist - packed full of active ingredients, it’s so complete; founder Dr. Maryam Zamani, global leading Aesthetic Doctor and Oculoplastic Surgeon, has put in this mist pretty much everything a mist can have. The cutting-edge active ingredients not only form a shield against pollution, infrared and blue light, but as well boosts the skin’s natural barrier function for increased resilience over time + reduces redness, calms inflammation and deeply hydrates the skin. I love to spritz it right after cleansing my skin, after the make-up application to set, and/or throughout the day for extra refreshment, hydration and protection. *MZ SKIN is sustainable cruelty-free clean beauty free from GMO, parabens, sulphates, silicones and phthalates… Available on MZ SKIN: €36/30ml - €72/75ml (save 10% with code - mz0cp0ct6z ) -8- APPLY SELF-TANNER RATHER THAN GET A TAN Every time you get a tan, you prematurely age your skin. This holds true if you get a tan from the sun, a tanning bed, or other indoor tanning equipment. All the mentioned, emit harmful UV rays that accelerate how quickly your skin ages. Recording to dermatologists, sunless tanners are a safer option because they tint the top layer of the skin that sloughs off in two to three weeks. This kind of tanners are deemed safe if their main ingredient is DHA, or dihydroxyacetone. DHA is derived from plant sources and is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for skin tanning purposes. If you choose to use a self-tanner to achieve a sun-kissed glow, don’t forget to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before you go outside. Self-tanner provides no protection from the harmful rays of the sun. It is just a superficial tinting of the skin and has no protective properties from the damaging UVA/UVB rays. Achieve sun-kissed skin (without the harmful UV rays) with Tan-Luxe's Illuminating Facial Self Tanning Drops. A multi-award winning formula that is safe and works synergistically with regular skincare routine; comes with hydrating skincare properties and is suitable for all skin types. I couldn't recommend this product enough! Use the drops with your moisturizer before bed and you'll wake up with a perfectly tanned skin. I love that I can add this to my regular favorite serum and moisturizer, and the tan is buildable. The scent is also the least offensive that doesn´t bother me at all. I´ve tried Tan- Luxe body and face self tanners, and I´ve loved them all a lot. * Never forget to wash your hands after self -tanning! Available on Lookfantastic: €41,95/30ml (on Lookfantastic PT save with code DD2022) -9- FIX YOUR GUT The very very important one... The connection between the skin and gut seems to be mediated by the host immune system. The interaction of the microorganisms and the host immune system is important to maintain the skin homeostasis. The gut–skin axis may be viewed as an integral part of the gut–brain–skin axis ... If you have an unhealthy gut, it can significantly impact your overall health and your skin, including breakouts of spots, dry skin, psoriasis, inflammation, atopic dermatitis (eczema) and rosacea. One study found that people with wrinkles had a higher level of gut inflammation than those without wrinkles. While more research is needed, the gut-skin connection is clear. Improving gut health can lead to better skin health, and vice versa. I've tried a lot probiotics supplements. So grounded in science, SEED DS-01® Daily Synbiotic "super organisms" are the ones for me; gives the most amazing skin, health and overall well-being improvements. If many probiotic supplements comes with 3- 7 strains, Seed ones has 24 clinically studied strains. See more details below: DS-01® comprises 24 scientifically-validated probiotic strains with a patented, non-fermenting prebiotic. This breakthrough formulation is paired with innovations in probiotic stabilization and a precision-release system to deliver strains to the lower small intestine to support systemic benefits, including digestive, heart, skin, and gut health. Gut-Skin axis is reinforced and the better looking, healthier skin you can get here already after just one month daily intake. ViaCap® technology together with two layer capsule coating ensures bacteria survive and stay viable through digestion - one of the reasons why with Seed’s super-organisms we can expect some good results pretty fast. #ad #accountable Available on SEED: $49.99/60 caps (save 15% on your first purchase with - DD15) *worldwide shipping -10- MOISTURE & HYDRATE YOUR SKIN SMARTLY Look for the creams and serums that contain Ceramides or other skincare ingredients that locks in moisture. Ceramide is a “glue” that holds skin cells together, helping skin maintain its appearance while protecting it. Healthy skin has lots of ceramides, which lock in moisture and protect the more sensitive second layer against outside irritants. Now, the most common hydrating heroes are Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin. These as well lock in hydration and keep the skin from drying out. The skin has a protective lipid barrier consisting of natural oils. This barrier is there not only to help keep water in your skin but to keep environmental toxins out. Apply moisturizer when your skin is damp. The prime time for moisturizing your skin is within five minutes after cleansing it. Skincare goods with “great barrier repair” that bind in moisture and water: SOMM Skin, Primal Plus, 100% natural skincare duo with multi-strategy Intelligent hydration. SOMM “plays strong” in nature’s amalgamation with science, and has put in their micro-biome skincare formulas the most radical plant technology that promises to re-program the cellular skin-intelligence. Primal is packed with natural symbiotic system and three way intelligent hydration strategy to lock in moisture while supercharge the skins defense mechanism, collagen production, smoothing, energizing and rejuvenating it. Boasting 28 nutrient-rich phyto- active botanicals, No.38 Gold super-active serum pleases the skin with the ultimate rejuvenative rich blend full with vitamins, minerals, phyto-nutrients, antioxidants, aminos, fatty acids and phyto-ceramides. It’s so complex, I love to wear this serum alone, or add a few drops into the Primal for more glow, nutrition and everything the aging skin is so needy for. Both products can be purchased separately.... (SOMM goods perfectly fits as the next tip´s nr.11 choice, as well). Available on SOMM: €88.00/50ml U Beauty- The Super Hydrator is intuitive moisturizer that works in harmony with their Resurfacing Compound (see more details on their website). Powered with patent-pending Hydra-Siren capsule for mega-dose of moisture to last some long 48 hours. Rich in anti-aging ingredients like shea butter, peptides, purified oat extract, grape-seed oil, avocado oil, five types of hyaluronic acids and argan oil to repair the skin leaving it with more youthful glowing appearance. Available U Beauty: £160.00/50ml (subscribe U Beauty website and save 20% off + free shipping: £128/50ml) -11- INCLUDE MICROBIOME-FRIENDLY SKINCARE Skin`s microbiome plays an equally important role in human health and beautiful skin, as the Gut microbiome does. The microbiota in your gut is different from the microbiota in your skin. So while you may have purchased your probiotics already, know that your skin needs its own set of care tactics to keep its unique flora thriving and your complexion naturally healthy. An off-balance in the skin microbiome, can flare atopic dermatitis and cause rosacea. Good quality microbiome-friendly skincare can be life-changing who has inflammatory skin condition, like acne, eczema, psoriases; all in some way affected by poor microbiome health. I always choose micro-biome-friendly skincare when my skin is having some irritation or redness issues going on. Works always beautifully, especially the one by ARgENTUM: ARgENTUM Apothecary `la potion infinie` restorative day and night silver cream; unique skin´s microbiome-friendly ultra-luxe formula with Silver Hydrasol in it, is able to take care of many skin issues like dryness, environmental damage, breakouts, acne, redness, enlarged pores, fine lines, lack of firmness, irritation or sensitivity, and dulling discoloration. Due to the DNA HP, moisturises in a unique way by delivering hydration to cutaneous intercellular space, carrying 10,000 times its weight in water (is great choice of previous Tip 10 as well). Beautifully scented luxury (unisex) cream, that can positively surprise literally everyone just in 3 day! Available on ARgENTUM: £174.00/ 70ml -12- CHOOSE SILK PILLOWCASES Let´s talk about the sleep wrinkles. Studies have found that pressing your face against a pillow as you sleep can cause permanent wrinkles. Silk pillowcases— or silk anything, really — is a small luxury, but it can bring so much beauty benefits. The smooth surface of the silk pillowcase can decrease wrinkles and improve the appearance of skin’s hydration, which can make you look more youthful. Silk lets the skin breathe and prevents pores from clogging. Skin stays hydrated all night and because of minimal friction reduces fine lines + reduces hair breakage, split ends, frizz and less breakage when brushing. Talk about beauty sleep!… and that’s why this should be your new beauty obsession. The highest-quality silk is mulberry silk, which is made from silkworms who eat from the leaves of the mulberry tree. It's the most durable silk and also the softest, which makes it ideal for a high-traffic item like a pillowcase. -13- HAVE A SUGAR-FREE LIFESTYLE Healthier skin is one of the sugar-free diet benefits. The body produces more insulin and similar hormones when you consume excess sugar. These hormones may trigger some changes in the skin, causing acne and aging. Reducing your sugar intake can help lower glycation in your skin. Glycation is when sugar molecules attach to protein or lipids in our bodies. When this happens, stored cells aren't as supportive to the skin's surface. The lack of collagen and elastin means it is hard to achieve a firm and plump look. `NO Sugar`diet can improve your complexion by strengthening elastin and collagen and reducing the level of inflammation present in your skin. Remember: sugar is not only in the sweets, its in many not sweet products like ketchup, bread, protein bars, granola, instant oatmeal, yogurt and so on... By the way, avoid foods where protein is together with sugar, like protein bars; this combo makes us age 7 times faster! We do not want that,right? So choose always sugar free protein bars. But be aware - many sweeteners like fructose, sucralose, saccharin, maple syrup and aspartam are very harmful to the overall health. For example, fructose consumption can accelerate aging. Fructose affects skin collagen cross-linking by increasing the amount of stable chemical bonds both within and between collagen molecules which in turn may reduce skin's elasticity and softness, the hallmarks of youthful skin. That´s why some longevity experts are not recommending to intake more that 3 fruits per day (except red fruits like blueberries and raspberries). The best sweetener - always Stevia. It's even associated with several impressive health benefits, such as reduced calorie intake, blood sugar levels, and risk of cavities. In 2008, stevia won FDA approval for use as a safe sweetener for foods and drinks. -14- DRINK WATER Drinking plenty of water every day will significantly reduce skin aging. Water keeps your body hydrated and refreshed and helps maintain your skin's elasticity. People who drink large amounts of water are less likely to suffer from scars, wrinkles, and soft lines and they won't show as many signs of aging as those who drink little amounts of water. Skin´s outermost layer of the epidermis is called the stratum corneum. This important membrane keeps bad things from entering the body. It also plays a role in making sure that too much water doesn’t leave our bodies. In other words, it helps keep the skin hydrated by preventing water evaporation. If you´re dehydrated and decide to start drinking plenty of water, eventually you`ll notice how your skin becomes brighter and plumper already in a few days. I drink 2,5l -3l water daily, some with freshly squeezed lemon juice (not including here tea, matcha and coffee, I drink everyday). -15- EAT HEALTHY, WELL-BALANCED DIET Studies suggest that eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may help prevent damage that leads to premature skin aging. Findings from research studies also suggest that a diet containing lots of sugar or other refined carbohydrates can accelerate aging. That pattern can be summed up this way: Choose more whole foods (vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains and lean proteins) and fewer ultra-processed foods (fast food, soda and sweets). You may wanna include in your diet following anti-aging foods: avocado, broccoli, red bell pepper, not heated nuts, spinach, papaya, watercress, arugula, sweet potatoes, pomegranate seeds and blueberries. Recording to longevity scientists, the Mediterranean and DASH are the ones of the healthiest diets known. Everything is even better is practiced 16:8 Intermittent Fasting (when 16h is without eating and 8h window is where you can have 2 - 3 meals). You can do this daily or 2-3 days per week. For me Intermittent Fasting is everyday 24/7. The benefits are just too good - Intermittent fasting triggers multiple changes in the body that slow down aging by keeping cells and DNA healthy. -16- COSMETIC TREATMENTS FOR MORE DRASTIC RESULTS When you´re in your 30`s, you can still control everything with a good skincare and the right nourishment from within. Now, after 40, if you're not the lucky inheritor of some fabulous genes, everything starts to change more dramatically. Thankfully, there´re effective noninvasive anti-aging options capable effectively stop—or at least slow—the clock. Skin boosters are often a good first step in stimulating new collagen and elastin deposition to reduce crepeyness in the delicate neck area. Talk with your plastic surgeon or beauty care professional, he´ll surely advice what´s best for you. -17- INCLUDE IN YOUR DIET LONGEVITY SUPPLEMENTS Longevity supplements differ from other 'generic supplements' as they do not provide ingredients to the body simply to prevent vitamin deficiencies; instead they provide the body with ingredients that can act on pathways to change the rate at which we age. Taking longevity supplements, like for example, Spermidine will make the skin aging visibly slowed down. THE TAKEAWAY If you struggle with skin aging and wrinkles (on your body or face), you should know that many safe treatment methods can be very helpful. But its always important to pay attention first on all the lifestyle choices you make, like protection from UV and pollution, the right skin care, good hydration levels and guts microbiome well-being. Make smart choices and leave the part -16- as the last one. Cosmetic applications will always give much better results if you have taken a good care of yourself at home first. //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem.

//This post contains affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! Gifted products are mentioned with an asterisk*. The product photos in this article are from linked websites, except the one with me (cover image). To me, the most enjoyable skincare step... my obsession with beauty masks is real - from a deep-cleansing clay mask to a rejuvenating night cream formula, there's always a special spot on my bathroom vanity for a good anti-aging face mask, in case I need a quick boost to pump up my skin to more youthful and glowing one. with Sarah Chapman, Platinum stem cell eye mask The best face masks are no different from a good facial in terms of results and potency of ingredients. They deliver intense benefits to the face with strong formulas that are left on the skin for an in extended period of time – similar to a facial. If we find the right formula face mask, we can get younger looking skin after just one use already. According to dermatologists, what we need are the formulas containing active ingredients with a small molecular structure and easy penetrating forms like nanopeptides (organ-specific cellular extracts and peptide molecules) + hyaluronic acid, squalane, or ceramides, to allow the skin rebuild itself with the building blocks for retaining and drawing in moisture. My preferred masks are those that address specific skin issues like congestion, dehydration, skin irritation, lack of firmness and dilated pores; and those capable transform my 43 year old complexion in brighter, dewier, less congested, lifted and just generally more youthful and glowed-up. See below 12 skin-boosting formulas I love and I cannot recommend enough. ARgENTUM APOTHECARY, le masque infini* The best clay mask that need to be in your skincare kit ASAP... ARgENTUM Apothecary balancing silver clay mask `le masque infini`is really one of a kind. With the most silky feel texture, enveloping creamy melange packed with the timeless skin healer Silver Hydrasol, super hydrating and cell regenerating DNA HP (salmon milt), nourishing Argan oil with Algae extract to calm redness and blemish prone skin, as well as to strengthen the skins microbiome + Cornish kaolin and activated Charcoal that deeply purifies skin, without any sensations of tightness promoting the skins elasticity and absorb excess oil… each impart their unique benefits to calm, smooth, supple and balance the complexion. The skin after is beautifully plump, healthy luminous and fresh. For all skin types, from breakout-prone to dry or sensitive. *Augmented by brush with cruelty-free bristles for the pleasing applying and bamboo pads to help rinse the mask away more easily. Available on ARgENTUM: £128/105g MZ SKIN Vitamin-Infused Meso Mask* Out-of-the-ordinary hydrogel mask awakens the youthful MZ glow in the skin, and before I know it, I'm entirely hooked. For skin cell renewal, balance and nourishment, this vegan high-end face mask comes with some rich combination of soothing antioxidants and brighteners such as Aloe Leaf, Liquorice Extract, Green tea and Vitamin C, E; expect reduced inflammation, improved skin texture, tackled age spots and pigmentation and more healthy glowing complication. Hyaluronic acid helps to attract and retain the moisture, so everything is rejuvenated, plump and youthful just in short 15 minutes. 'The Option' for lifeless/dull skin. Available on MZ SKIN: €26 (Save 10% with code: mz0cp0ct6z ) AMAN X 111 SKIN, Nourishing Gold Algae Face Mask Unique skin-hugging hydrogel essence mask, from 111Skin and Aman Essentials collab, works immediate dramatic rejuvenating wonders leaving you with fresh-from-the-spa-glow like skin. Infused with omega rich marine extracts, 111’s signature NAC Y² amino acid complex and hyaluronic acid boosts the radiance elevating the skin’s hydration and luminosity right away. I got amazed, so adding to the list of my favorites. Suitable for all skin types. Available on AMAN: €99.00/set of 5 SARAH CHAPMAN, Platinum Stem Cell Eye Mask Tri-ocular™ treatment mask that targets with 360° focus all the critical eye contour areas, giving immediate cell turnover and increased collagen production, all thanks to so unique cutting-edge complex of advanced, scientific actives, think Platinum Matrix EM, Celtosome™ Sea Fennel Stem Cell, Effipulp®, Hyaluronic Acid Complex and Eyeseryl®. Expect here instantly smoothed lines, lifted and hydrated slackening and crepey eyelids, and as well depuffed and brightened dark circles. Besides looking cute on Instagram for your self-care-selfies (see on the posts main photo), Sarah Chapman silvery looking eye mask can surely give that youthfulness around the eyes we all so need on our 40+ Available on Lookfantastic: €70.94/ 4x 8g (for this price you get if used code DD2022) AMBUJA, Globetrotter Mask* `The urban pollution magnet` transcends spa-worthy luxury and gives back to the skin it´s youthful translucence and healthy glow. Velvety smooth hybrid mask with superfluid™ (lotus+coconut cell fluidum™), and superstone-adapto-gene™ enriched with volcanic rock powder, amazonian clay, camellia and desert rose provides ferment-based exfoliation and gives what urban skin is so needy for -- de-pollution urban anti-aging care. Composition loaded with 100% certified organic immerses the skin in moisture, lifts dullness and diminishes fine lines and dark spots, leaving the complexion ultra-hydrated, clear, radiant, shielded, supple and smooth + you get here mind pleasing moment because of it´s gorgeously delicious scent. Good for dry, oily, combination and normal skin. Available on Ambuja: €38.00/15ml - €205.00/100ml MZ SKIN Hydra-Bright Gold Eye Mask* Who knows better what the eye delicate skin might need, than `the eye doctor`, right? Designed by global leading Aesthetic Doctor and Oculoplastic surgion Dr. Maryam Zamani, we get here some real golden eye rejuvenation. With nano gold particles and active ingredients, Hydra-Bright Golden Eye Treatment Mask is the one to save for a special occasion to restore radiance of tired eyes in almost no time at all. 15 minutes SOS treatment smoothes the appearance of fine lines like nothing else. Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, and seaweed brighten dark circles, reduce puffiness, and restores hydration and elasticity while illuminates weary eyes. Put these well-soaked under-eye patches for 5-10 minutes in a refrigerator before the use and get immediate depuff cooling effect. Available on MZ SKIN: €22.00 - €91.00 (Save 10% with code: mz0cp0ct6z ) CHANTECAILLE, BIO LIFTING MASK + My first acquaintance with Chantecaille, super agreeable one, was while trying it out at my friend's sleep-over-party. She shared this Chantecaille beauty with me, the results was insanely good; now having this mask on my wishlist to purchase for me ASAP. Luxury in a jar, each Bio Lifting Mask´s features five plant extracts with up to 10 million plant stem cells, supporting moisture-retention, while fortifies the skin’s natural defenses against the effects of environmental aggressors. Buffet of botanicals together with hexapeptides and tensing agents here, smoothes-out expression lines leaving with a smoother-looking and lifted complexion. Can be used for 10-15 minutes or overnight; I recommend to go with it all night long on, to awake looking enviably rested and more rejuvenated. For all skin types. Available on Lookfantastic: €61.95/15ml (save with code DD2022) DECREE, SOS REVITALISING SHEET MASK Once-tried-never-forget mask. Incredibly effective Dr, AJ Sturnham gold-standart luxurious formulation, rose-infused bio-cellulose treatment mask, soaks the skin in hydrating actives that comfort even the most sensitive skin. Calming, reparative and brightening ingredients restores and repairs skins barrier to its former glory. After 10 minutes the redness/irritations are gone and overall skin looks refreshed, calm, nourished, plump and luminous. For all skin types, especially sensitive and irritated. Available on Cult Beauty: €22.60 KARIN HERZOG, ESSENTIAL MASK* Essential Mask- my most loved product from Karin Herzog´s oxygen skincare line... It's been awhile when I had this face mask on my skincare shelf, but never forgetting how wowed this formula has made me already ... Applied just for 5 to 10 minutes or as overnight treatment, the most tired skin can get refreshed and beautifully renewed here. Made in Switzerland, Dr. Herzog´s Miracle formula is packed with 2% active oxygen, vitamins and rich blend of essential oils; radiance-boosting face mask, capable to bring back the life into the skin for more rejuvenated, plump, deeply hydrated appearance. Noteworthy for those looking to diminish imperfections and pore size. Suitable for all skin types. Available on Karin Herzog: €59.00/50ml SARAH CHAPMAN, SKINESIS INSTANT MIRACLE MASK Cleverly infuses the skin with moisturising hyaluronic acid, protein skin tighteners, skin clearing Moroccan lava clay (ghassoul), brightening vitamin C, brown sea algae, and delicate rose. Pores appear smaller and the complexion looks firmer, smoother and more radiant. Redness is calmed and diminished and skin feels cool, soft and fresh. Ideal for tired skin days. Suitable for all ages, skin conditions and concerns. *Comes with the shaker and sachets with the powder-like formula--you should mix 60 ml of cool water with the full contents of one sachet. Shake until the mask goes silent, quickly apply thick layer, wait 15 minutes and then just peel-off and have your glowing rejuvenated skin ready. Available on Feelunique: €55,86/ 4 x 15g ELIzABETH ARDEN, Superstart probiotic Biocellulose Mask Calming from the second it hits the complexion, this luxurious, ultra-concentrated cooling mask has hyaluronic acid and 2X the probiotic blend featured in the Skin Renewal Booster for smoother, more youthful-looking skin. No need to lay down while masking here - the biocellulose material, derived from natural coconut water, fits snugly to the contours of the face like a second skin. The probiotics help to restore the natural balance of the skin, strengthening its ability to repair and optimizing its natural defenses. This skin´s microbiome-friendly formula leaves the skin glowing with health and radiance. All skin types. Available on Elizabeth Arden: £40/ 4 x 18ml LANEIGE, FIRMING SLEEPING MASK Who doesn´t want a time freeze effect, right? Laneige changeover-in-a-deep-sleep skincare line is getting pretty close to it. Affordable price face-firming mask with soothing scents of ylang-ylang, rose, orange flower and sandalwood relaxes senses for more restful sleep, so all the body´s attention and energy is leaded for so needed face-lift action. Laneige Time Freeze anti-aging elasticity technology and Dynamic Collagen_EX ™ technology takes care of 5 signs of aging simultaneously, like dryness, skin texture, fine wrinkles, pore elasticity and skin tone. Feeling less firm? This one can be your one of top-sos-in-a-jar for more lifted look. For all skin types. *I once purchased this mask on Lookfantastic, but unfortunately at the time its sold out. I couldn´t find it on Laneige website either. But you can check out this brands other products. Remember to save on Lookfantastic PT with code `DD2022` //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem.

// This post doesn't contain any affiliate links. Photo in this post is created by me. "MAKE YOU REJUVENATE FROM INSIDE AND YOU´LL LOOK YOUNG FROM OUTSIDE" - Dr. David Sinclair Forget what you’ve been told about the inevitability of aging... we are on the beginning of the new era where people will live much longer and the aging can be stopped, even reversed. People live their lives thinking that aging is natural process, that can´t be reversed... But Science is going hard on this and results are coming out. It’s a seemingly undeniable truth that aging is inevitable. But what if everything we’ve been taught to believe about aging is wrong? What if we could choose our lifespan? - Dr, David Sinclar. In the last few years, scientists have succeeded in making old organisms younger. There are many ways to do this, via cutting-edge biotechnologies, and – to a lesser extent – via specific lifestyle interventions. Sharing below all the ultimate age reverse lifestyle steps, that can be practiced by each of you. EAT LESS OFTEN / INTERMITTENT FASTING ...it’s not just what you eat, but when you eat, that’s important. JUST SKIP A MEAL... better two! Or change your lifestyle to Intermittent Fasting one ... "There are numerous studies pointing to the health benefits of intermittent fasting", says Professor of Genetics, Harvard Medical School Dr. Sinclair, “Almost any periodic fasting diet that does not result in malnutrition is likely to put your longevity genes to work in ways that will result in a longer, healthier life.” Fasting 16 - 18 hours a day may greatly improve your heart health. It reduces the bad cholesterol that clogs the blood vessels and heightens the chances of heart disease. See all the benefits of Intermittent Fasting: Insulin levels. Blood levels of insulin drop significantly, which facilitates fat burning. Human growth hormone (HGH) levels. The blood levels of human growth hormone may increase dramatically. Higher levels of this hormone facilitate fat burning and muscle gain, and have numerous other benefits Cellular repair. The body induces important cellular repair processes, such as removing waste material from cells Gene expression. There are beneficial changes in several genes and molecules related to longevity and protection against disease. Intermittent fasting helps you eat fewer calories while boosting metabolism slightly. It’s a very effective tool to lose weight and visceral fat. Can reduce insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels, at least in men. Can reduce oxidative damage and inflammation in the body. This should have benefits against aging and development of numerous diseases. Can improve numerous risk factors for heart disease, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers. Fasting triggers a metabolic pathway called autophagy, which removes waste material from cells. Help prevent cancer in animal studies and some human studies. Research in humans showed that it can help reduce side effects caused by chemotherapy. It may increase growth of new neurons and protect the brain from damage. May be protective against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. ...not to be surprised, when Intermittent Fasting is considered as the most healthy diet of all times! Do you wanna know the less healthy diet? - Atkinson diet... but this is not what I wanna talk about... lets get back to the good healthy stuff that can make us look younger :) ... EAT HEALTHY Reduce your intake of animal protein, especially processed red meat such as sausages, salami, bacon, ham, hot dogs, patés, etc. Eat a lot Avocado Replace red meat (e.g. beef, pork, mutton, veal) with white meat (poultry), fatty fish (e.g. salmon, herring, mackerel), and meat substitutes (based on tofu, pea, or mushroom protein). Consume lots of vegetables, legumes, mushrooms, fruits, nuts, seeds. Vegetables should be the basis of your diet (not potatoes, pasta, rice and bread). Reduce your intake of starchy, empty-calorie foods like bread, pasta, rice, and potatoes. Replace them more with vegetables, legumes, mushrooms or quinoa. Avoid sugary foods and drinks as much as possible, like sodas, fruit juices, candy, cookies, sweets, cake, pastries, doughnuts, candy bars, chocolates and so on. Avoid everything that makes your glucose levels shoot up drastically Eat some greens like arugula with everything you eat… this will make your glucose levels more balanced Avoid trans fats, which can be found in fried foods, fast-food, bakery products (e.g. crackers, cookies, cakes), and vegetable shortenings. Significantly reduce your intake of omega-6-fat-rich foods, like corn oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, margarine, sesame oil, mayonnaise and most salad dressings. Consume more healthy fats, especially omega-3 fats, by consuming more olives, olive oil, walnuts, avocados, flax seed, chia seed, fatty fish and so on. Consume foods that have come straight from nature and processed as little as possible, like foods your great-grandmother would recognize. Consume a daily, freshly-made smoothie with vegetables and low-glycemic index fruits, like blueberries. Eat specific foods that can slow down aging: green leafy vegetables (broccoli, spinach, arugula), blueberries, dark chocolate (containing at least 70% cacao), salmon, shrimp, walnuts, pomegranate, etc. Avoid toasted nuts - when heated they turn toxic Eat beans (black beans are the best ones) …studies has shown that people who eat regularly (even daily) beans live longer! Drink your Coffee black and organic with no added sugar or lactose in it Have your fasting coffee as mentioned above (always with glass of water before and after) Remember- more your food lives, less live you! *More about Fasting Coffee you will find HERE INCLUDE ANTI-AGING/LONGEVITY SUPPLEMENTS NMN- White powerful powder, that I take daily in an empty stomach (powder version is better than capsules), holds the key to longevity in boosting cellular health. Read everything about this miraculous anti-aging molecule in my other post I posted some months ago > HERE. If you’re looking for the best, safest, and strongest NMN, AGE SCIENCE is what I recommend. I´m on this high quality German labs molecule already for a year ( 500mg per day) and I´m more than satisfied. Worldwide shipping. RESVERATROL- Resveratrol protects the body from free radical cell damage. In addition, resveratrol promotes the activity Sirtuins. Sirtuins, Resveratrol and NMN are all interconnected, looking to stop - even reverse - aging. That´s why I take it always together with NMN. (Make sure you purchase Resveratrol that is white. Important: by taking resveratrol with a fat source, it improves it’s bioavailability.) QUERCETIN- The main role played by Quercetin in anti-aging lies in its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Other than that, Quercetin also ensures that our cells are protected from free radical chain reactions. It increases the immunity of the body significantly. Believed to have important anti-cancer properties as studies indicate. Quercetin I take with courses - 2 months yes, one month I go without. SPERMIDINE- Molecule first found in sperm, hence its name. Spermidine is mainly known for its ability to induce autophagy. Autophagy is a very important process to keep our cells healthy and young. Makes part of a group known as polyamines. Polyamines interact with our cells and are responsible for performing various metabolic functions. Spermidine delays aging in humans and may counteract the general clock of aging; improves cardiovascular function, anticancer immune surveillance or neurodegeneration and thereby reducing the incidence of the major age-related diseases. I would recommend to take it daily, especially if you’re 50+... PRE - PROBIOTICS- Gut health is extremely important for overall health, good skin, immune system and healthy brain. Changing microbiome to healthy one is linked to less inflammation and contributes to longevity. SEED good bacteria (look for the link below), my best friend at the time to gain back healthy microbiome, stronger immune system and better skin after antibiotic intake… I´ve had many probiotics in my life, but this is the only one I’ve got stick with. Works like any other probiotic I´ve had in my life. ‘DS-01™ Daily Synbiotic’ formulation of 24 clinically and scientifically studied, broad- spectrum strains to support healthy gut barrier function, integrity and systematic health. ViaCap technology together with two layer capsule coating ensures bacteria survive and stay viable... and this is why these pre-probiotics gives fabulous results already after just one month intake. SEED super organisms are my daily "health treat" for about 3 months now, and I´m completely blown away. Skin redness/irritations are gone and belly bloating is significantly diminished. And my Immune system is back! >> feel free to use code ‘DD15’ to save 15% off on your SEED´s first month's supplies HERE. * Worldwide shipping ** You may wanna check out article about Gut Microbiome role in anti-aging HERE FISETIN- The one I´ve not yet had included in my lifestyle, but definitely its on my list. Fisetin is perhaps the most intriguing of the first generation senolytic compounds, those capable of selectively destroying senescent cells in old tissues and thus producing rejuvenation to a meaningful degree. Fisetin is a senolytic, a compound that can clear away senescent cells. Senescent cells accumulate everywhere in the body during aging. These cells were previously normal cells that became too damaged. Normally, when a cell is too damaged, it kills itself, but senescent cells don’t do that. I don´t know what I´m waiting for!!!? I need this! Recommendations?? METFORMIN- Popular low cost anti-aging prescription drug that are used to lengthen the lifespan. Metformin has shown to extend lifespan in various organisms, including mammals. In humans, diabetics taking metformin actually live longer than healthy non-diabetics who obviously don´t take metformin. This was not the case for diabetics on other anti-diabetic drugs. For anti-aging benefits take 500 mg / 0.5g of metformin in the morning and 500 mg / 0.5 g in the evening. K2+ D3+ Mg - super important combo for heart and bone health. Ensure that calcium is absorbed easily and reaches the bone mass, while preventing arterial calcification. Helping to keep your heart and bones healthy. Vitamin D is the one that correlates very nicely with longevity, and it’s critical for bone and for skin health. Vitamin K also improves skin appearance. Magnesium is also a crucial part of the equation, as it is a component necessary for the activation of vitamin D. Without sufficient amounts of it, your body cannot properly utilize the vitamin D. I’m on this combo already some large years. Absolute must have. RAPAMYCIN- In terms of life extension, rapamycin is one of the most consistently effective drugs available. Works mainly as an immunosuppressant inhibiting mTOR which may benefit longevity. According to a recent study, rapamycin, a medicine that has long been used to suppress the immune system, may also help halt the aging process in human skin. Have never tried this one on me...surely will. On the list! HAVE A SIRTUIN RICH DIET Sirtuins are epigenetic regulators. There are seven sirtuins in mammals. They mute the chronic inflammation that drives many chronic diseases like atherosclerosis, arthritis, and asthma. Sirtuin-activating compounds have been identified, such as fisetin and butein. Resveratrol outperforms both of these. It is considered a calorie-restriction mimetic. It has been shown to protect against several diseases, to extend lifespan in several species, and to make human cells resistant to DNA damage in the lab. Activating the SIRT1 gene has been shown to boost mitochondrial activity and kicks off various processes that counter the effects of obesity, age-related decline, and age-related diseases. *Following the Sirt Diet and eating sirtfood-rich meals encourages SIRT1 activation. This ignites the body’s natural properties of burning fat and warding off disease. The top ten sirtuin foods are blackcurrants, green tea, dark chocolate, olives (olive oil), capers, parsley, onions, turmeric, omega-3 fish oil and avocado. HYDRATE YOURSELF Hydrate a lot. Drink at least 1.5 of liters per day: that’s 8 glasses per day…But better more. Drink green tea, white tea, ginger tea, Matcha or organic coffee (yes, coffee can reduce the risk of various aging-related diseases). Add spices (e.g. mint), lemon, lime or apple cider vinegar to add healthy detox properties. Avoid as much as you can any sugary drinks (such as soda, commercial fruit juices, etc). My choice >> never. One more thing I never drink is milk – milk accelerates aging. EAT STRESSED PLANTS Stressed plants - Plants grown without fertilizer or pesticides, produce their own defensive compounds. Eating them may also benefit our own biology. "We have a theory called xenohormesis and that’s the idea that stressed plants make molecules that help them, but also when we eat those plants we turn on our defenses.”, says Dr. Sinclair." In following this theory, eating stressed plants that have been exposed to a lot of sun before harvest can help activate our body’s natural defenses. The best example is resveratrol in grapes. We bottle that in red wine and we’ve found resveratrol activates a particular longevity pathway in the body. That’s in part why we think red wine over the long run can be healthy”. SAY NO TO SUGAR The older we get, the more insulin resistant our tissues become. The more insulin resistant you are, the less well your tissues can process sugars. The sugar is not taken up well into cells, and lingers around in the body, causing damage, which contribute to aging. Sugar, fructose, suclarose or everything actually that is sweet can put your glucose levels high and make your cell age faster. The best of sweeteners is already so famous Stevia - it is one of the very few sweeteners that aren’t just safe, but it comes with actual health benefits as well. Stevia is known for its two greatest health benefits: lowering both blood sugar and blood pressure levels. A compound in Stevia called Stevioside was found in a study to improve insulin functions, resulting in lower blood sugar levels. EXERCISE Lose your breath from exercise. Do hip-hinges exercises, weight-lifting. Keep your hips and legs strong. If we sit around all day, and we don’t exercise, and we eat constantly, our defenses don’t get turned on. So being hungry (intermittent fasting we talked above) during the day and exercising, these are the things that tell the Sirtuin genes to come on and to protect the body. Exercise has several advantages, one of which is increased NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) levels which activate the survival network of lifespan regulators such as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and Sirtuins (the name comes from “silent mating-type information regulation”). So, exercising has so many anti-aging benefits we definitely wanna add to our stop aging lifestyles! No time for exercise? - “You may reap the advantages of exercise in 3 minutes a day by sprinting until exhaustion, or by pushing yourself as hard as possible for around 3 minutes and then resting,” Dr. Sinclair said. i)- If you are above 45 and are able to perform more than 20 pushups, you are doing well. (ii)- Test of sitting-rising (SRT): Sit cross-legged on the floor, barefoot. Lean forward and rise to a standing posture in one motion. Fit individuals may perform this without using their hands or making an intermediate motion to their knees. This is, in effect, a squat. GET HOT & COLD Get out your body of constant comfort. Do the sauna and jump in cold water baths to try and stimulate and get the body out of its complacency. Put your room temperature the way you feel slightly cold, sleep with a light blanket on, keep the doors and windows open, take cold showers, exercise in a colder environment, wear fewer layers of clothing. Restricting calories itself reduces the body’s core temperature and so providing a substantially colder environment. Data reveals that constantly lower core body temperature correlates with prolonged lifespan. When we expose our bodies to cold temperatures, it starts in producing Brown Fat, that contributes to better lifespan. Scientists used to believe that only babies had brown fat. They also thought this fat disappeared by the time most people reached adulthood. Researchers now know that even adults have small reserves of brown fat, that´s stored in small deposits around the shoulders and neck. So, You wanna get more of Brown Fat? Turn on the ice cold water in your shower time! ;) DO NOT SMOKE Smokers age faster. Smoking causes DNA damage and keeps the repair crews working overtime, resulting in epigenetic instability and aging. Sinclair says, non-smokers are bathing in DNA-damaging chemicals too. Even breathing can damage DNA through air pollution, and we are exposed to many DNA-damaging chemicals in plastics, dyes, solvents, pesticides, hydraulic fluid, many foods, background and medical radiation, etc. CLEAR THE SENESCENT CELLS "Kill Senescent Cells Before They Kill You!" A senescent cell is one whose life cycle has come to a permanent end. Normally, such cells are eliminated from the body by the immune system. But in some cases, this fails to happen and they accumulate in tissues, with potentially serious consequences for health, poisoning the body with chemical signals (cytokines) that fan the flames of inflam-aging. Senescent cells can contribute to aging not only because of the accumulation of senescent cells but also by limiting the regenerative potential of stem cells. This leaves you more vulnerable to cancer and aging. Cell damage and stress can have external sources, like toxins, viruses, and radiation. For example, when we catch some sun, the UV rays can cause DNA damage, which puts cells in an alerted frenzy to repair and maintain the integrity of our genetic code. There are more sources of damaging radiation, such as X-rays, which is why medical and dental technicians give you a lead shield to protect your cells and DNA from getting zapped. Oxidative stress is another way our DNA is highly susceptible to DNA damage. —The question is, how to eliminate these cells? Some studies have shown that calorically restricted diets started in adulthood can reduce the number of senescent cells in proliferating tissues...so,again, Intermittent Fasting it is! Fisetin is one good option, I talked about more above. Quercetin is the one that kills senescent cells in endothelial lining. The chemo drug is the one that works on fat cells. Dr.Wei and colleagues from the National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics in China, has found that NMN treatment significantly reduced the number of senescent cells following the bleomycin antibiotic stress. These findings show that NMN protects against senescence induced both by excessive replication and stress. AVOID UV EXPOSURE Bla, bla bla... everyone knows that! But it´s just so important one, right?… If you have read the previous part about Senescent cells, you now know, why it´s so eminent to protect yourself from damaging UV exposure. To avoid skin cell, collagen and matrix degradation, sunscreen is, above all, the most important aspect of an age control regimen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen product must be applied each morning to prevent further damage. Choose an SPF of at least 25 and look for ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone (Parsol), or ecamsule (Mexoryl®) to ensure adequate UVA and UVB protection. BE STRESLESS Stress - the hardest to control from all the list for me... Its just so difficult to get control of! Stress seems to be such a normal part of life, but learning to manage stress can help you live a longer, healthier life. You can take some GABA supplements, meditate, practice gratitude or just learn to accept the things you can’t change and be the calmest you can be... just do everything you can to move out the stress from you. HAVE A QUALITY SLEEP Finally, obtain a peaceful night’s beauty sleep! Overnight, the body must repair itself, and by skipping sleep, you are pushing yourself closer and closer to old age. Melatonin is a hormone made in the body that regulates night and day cycles or sleep -wake cycles. But it´s not only a hormone, but as well a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in the reduction of inflammation in the body and in reducing oxidative stress, a leading cause of aging. The body produces less melatonin as you age. Getting inadequate sleep further reduces the amount of melatonin available to the body. Sleep deprivation is also melatonin deprivation. Can´t sleep? Take a supplement. Melatonin is likely safe for most adults when used short-term. Melatonin is possibly safe when taken long-term. It's been used safely for up to 2 years. But it can cause some side effects including headache, sleepiness, dizziness, and nausea. Don't drive or use machinery for 4-5 hours after taking melatonin. (*)Caffeine might increase or decrease melatonin levels in the body. When taken together with melatonin supplements, caffeine seems to increase melatonin levels. THE TAKEAWAY Hope you´re feeling at least just a little bit inspired to give your body all the love, so beautiful changes can happen :)... Remember, to stop aging you should do these, above mentioned, steps all together + to slow down aging it’s important to avoid to the maximum things like microwaved plastic, X-rays, and CT scans as well. Good luck on your healthy living "New You" journey <3 //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem. Trusted Sources: David Sinclair's 6 Secrets of Longevity & Anti Aging in his book Lifespan - Prime With DERMASCOPE Magazine - Skin Care Magazine .

// This post contains affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use & recommend! Gifted products are mentioned with an asterisk* .The product photos in this article are from linked websites. Winter time - magical time, yet it bring along it bevy of colds and viruses and much shorter days, mostly cloudy, so we have far less opportunities to get sunshine and with it so important vitamin D. The other things like festive time´s not so healthy meals and drinks, too much time indoors with air conditioning everywhere and stressing about this and that... all this harms not only our immunity and so precious gut health, but as well the well-being of the skin, hair and the mood. ----Below I´m putting all my go to winter time immunity boosters and supplements (some that actually I take all year round) + I'm adding as well my favorite healthy winter holiday tips I use to stay away from getting a flu, and to not intoxicate my body with all the appetizing drinks and foods. I hope you´ll enjoy the read and take from it whats best for you :) VITAMIN D3 Available on iHerb: €15.06/10.3ml Often called sunshine vitamin, vitamin D is a must especially on the winter time. Recent studies have shown that adequate feels of vitamin D can have very positive effects on many vital functions, including strength and energy, immune function and the prevention of common allergies. Essential one for bone health and immune system, it´s challenging to get enough vitamin D from food sources alone, we can find in fatty fish, cod liver oil, beef liver, egg yolks and some mushrooms. Why D3 and not D2? Our body just absorbs it more effectively. (on iHerb save on everything with code AQW5924) PRE-PROBIOTICS Available on SEED: $49.99/60 caps + save 15% -`DD15` (worldwide shipping) To promote wellness on `baby it´s cold outside`days we should give as much as we can the most caring love to our Gut - this is where 70% of our immune system is located! We just need to make sure, the good-gut bacteria is much more than the bad one living in the Gut. Broad spectrum probiotics year-around, can guarantee the `good guys`on winter time are all there, ready to fight for you and protect. Choose high-quality probiotics as SEED´s ‘DS-01™ Daily Symbiotic’*; pre-and-probiotic containing 24 clinically-and-scientifically studied strains (and 53.6 billion AFU) for benefits in and beyond the gut. Think stronger immune system, healthy regularity, ease of bloating, smoother skin, heart health, and so more. ViaCap® technology together with two layer capsule coating ensures bacteria survive and stay viable through digestion - one of the reasons why with Seed’s super-organisms we can expect some good results already after one month daily intake. Use code ‘DD15’ and benefit 15% off on your first purchase. ZINC Available on iHerb: €11.57/100 tablets Zinc is one of those super-needed micronutrients that perform countless tasks in the human body. Zinc has the unique ability to support our natural anti-viral immunity, it also can inactivate the viruses that it comes into contact with, as well as reduce the infectious burden within cells. To make zinc go deeper in our cell we need Ionophores help, they naturally bind Zinc in the blood and drop them off inside the cell, just like a nice Uber ride; we can find them in green tea, Curcumin and Quercetin...the one I´m adding next next on this list... QUERCETIN Available on iHerb: €17.69/ 60caps Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation and a vital health nutrient that can improve our health, increase longevity and help add immeasurably to a more energetic and healthier life. Found in apples and onions it has an anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-allergy action thats great to reinforce immune system and can make us feel very much protected during the cold season. Because quercetin is fat-soluble it is best taken with a fat source or a meal containing fat, such as avocado, nuts, olive oil or whole eggs. VITAMIN C Available on iHerb: €19.02/ 100 caps Finally the most popular everyone knows about - vitamin C. Not only does it help the immune system to fight off pathogens, but it s also a powerful antioxidant that helps body fight off oxidative stress and contributes to healthy skin. Only half of a 1,000mg dose is absorbed in the body while the rest is excreted in the urine. The body has very little capacity to store vitamin C, so if you wanna take 1,000 or even 2,000 mg per day, it´s recommended to spread out the dosage of vitamin C over the whole day. I take Ester- C version. Vitamin C ( ascorbic acid) has an acidic pH, and Ester C has a neutral pH. Most importantly, vitamin C has low bioavailabity compared to Ester C. B VITAMINS Available on Naturitas: €18.21/365 tablets B-vitamins can fabulously kick our immune system up a few notches and add to the overall well-being our body. It´s good to intake B vitamin complex for a month or so where are included B1(thiamine), B2(riboflavin), B3(niacin), B5(pantothenic acid), B6(pyridoxine), B7(biotin), B9(folate) and B12(cobalamin); each have different functions, they all aid in cell metabolism, beautifully protect the body from sickness, and promote a healthy happiness that helps to deter the winter blues. OMEGA 3 Available on iHerb: €26.95/ 60 softgels Taking in Omega-3 while keeping good balanced lifestyle will give so needed support to your mental health and so help you over come the winter depressions on the cold, short winter days. If you are deficient in omega 3’s then you may find that your skin is dry and cracked; issue that bothers many on cold weather times. Omega 3’s may provide anti-inflammatory properties that can be useful in preventing or treating skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis and eczema. Cod liver oil comes with added nutrition in the form of vitamins A and D. Krill oil is more sustainable than both fish oil and Cod liver oil as well as being distinctly more potent, that´s why I take and recommend Krill oil. But, Cod Liver oil is not a bad option as well. GARLIC OIL Available on iHerb: €14.81/ 250 softgels For more than 4,000 years, garlic has been used as medicine for many types of ailments include digestive and respiratory problems, fatigue, bacterial infections, toothache, arthritis and heart disease. Garlic has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic effects; a true winter wonder that can help overwinter with health and well-being. Cell damage and oxidative stress can also be curbed by garlic. * Thus, garlic should not be eaten or taken as a supplement 2 weeks before surgery or before a dental procedure, causing excessive decreases in blood sugar levels. Garlic can also add to the effects of blood pressure–lowering drugs and thus lower blood pressure too much. K2 + D3 + Mg Available on Naturitas: €15.68/ 200 softgels Vitamin D is one of things that correlates very nicely with longevity, especially when in combination with vitamin K2 and Magnesium. Actually, I’m a big fan of this combo... I take vitamin D every day along with vitamin K2 & Mg for my blood vessels, heart, bones and skin health. Superhero combo ensures that calcium is absorbed easily and reaches the bone mass, while preventing arterial calcification. Helping to keep our heart & bones healthy + supports a healthy immune system. *mostly of the times K2 + D3 does´t come together with Magnesium. So consider to purchase it separately. COLLAGEN PEPTIDES Available on Naturitas: €23/ 284g Collagen is essential protein to form our skin, bones, muscles, tensions and ligaments. As we age, we naturally start slowly loosing its production. To prevent dry, chapped and cracked skin on winter time,it´s a good time to enhance the beauty routine with Collagen Peptides. If you choose good quality collagen, the results of skin´s well-being you can start to feel already around 1-2 weeks. VITAL PROTEIN Collagen Peptides are the ones for me. Improves amazingly skin´s elasticity and plump moist from within. Take it in the morning, first thing on an empty stomach; or before the sleep, as when we sleep our body is naturally recovering. * consider vitamin C intake together with collagen. Doing so will likely boost your skin health even more. SKINSHAKE Available on Dr. David Jack: Subscribe & save 15% - £62.90/ 500mg (+ get 10% on your first purchase) Other great skin support you definitely should take a look at, especially if you´re 40+, that comes from outstanding Dr. David Jack supplement collection. Cold, harsh winds and dry air is extremely demanding on your skin. Long winters don’t give the skin time to restore the barrier. SkinShake™ is 100% natural delicious plant based skin supplement featuring hemp and pea protein, superfoods, super greens, peptides and antioxidants, including glutathione and Vitamin C. Simply fabulous nutritious anti-aging skin boosting formula supplies cells with supporting regeneration and its repair. By the way, this one can be fabulous gift for your beauty obsessed bestie or your the most important human being, your Mum :) GOOD "THINGS" TO ADD TO YOUR LIFESTYLE TO STRENGTHEN YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM and HAVE A HOLIDAYS WITH WELL-BEING AND HEALTH ACTIVATED CHARCOAL There´s always a time when we just can´t say no to something delicious that is filled with sugars or other not so healthy additives. Winter festive time with plenty of irresistible foods can be a little "nightmare`for healthy lifestyle lovers. This is where Activated Charcoal can be very helpful and turn as your bff :) Activated Charcoal is amazing at absorbing and removing harmful particles and bacteria from the body. It traps toxins and chemicals in the gut, and since it is not absorbed by the body, the activated charcoal along with the harmful substances it holds on its surface are eliminated through feces. My favorite that I use comes together with propolis for even better healthy detoxification -> see it HERE. *Take it right after the meal or between the meals with the cup of water. COCONUT OIL Coconut oil contains lauric acid and caprylic acid, which are highly essential to strengthen the immunity system of an organism. These acids can easily fight off the bacteria and viruses that can cause harmful diseases. One spoon after each meal daily of organic Extra Virgen Coconut Oil can be enough to benefit all the good things. BONE BROTH The perfect winter superfood for the skin really. Drinking bone broth is an easy way to boost the collagen in your skin. Restorative and nourishing, it also gives benefits like stronger bones and joints, better Gut health, mood and sleep. MATCHA TEA Don´t miss out during the winter flu season the countless health benefits of a good matcha tea powder. Due to it's high antioxidant content, matcha green tea powder is a great immune system booster! Actually, drinking matcha every day gives noticeable mood boost, optimized all-day energy, and potential benefits like cell damage and chronic disease prevention, weight loss, heart health, lower blood pressure, metabolism balance, and even totes cancer-fighting properties. GINGER TEA Ginger has immense supremacy of healing. Start your day off with a warm mug of ginger tea. This will keep you warm the entire day and prevent you from getting a flu. Ginger tea can be consumed at any time of day. It works well as a pick-me-up first thing in the morning, but you may also find it helpful after a meal to ease digestion. I love to make my own ginger tea: I simply cut ginger root in thin slices and add those into previously boiled water. I leave it like this some 10 minutes or so, and the Ginger tea is ready. * add slice of lemon for a soothing bedtime ritual to help put the day behind you and calm down your stomach and promote sleep. LEMON AND PEPPER TEA In a boiling water, put pepper, honey, and turmeric in the mug – and the tea is ready! You can have Lemon and Pepper Tea when you want a prolonged immune system. It’s a great detoxing agent as well. GABA GABA is one of the most healthiest options to avoid falling into the trap of holiday blues and beat the holiday stress naturally. Superior source and naturally produced form of the important brain compound gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), can be taken during the day, and it will not make you feel sleepy. Your menstrual cycle is around the Holidays? GABA can be very helpful to diminish your PMS very well. *GABA is most effective on an empty stomach, so it is a good idea to wait an hour between eating food or, for example, drinking your favorite collagen smoothy. N-ACETIL-CYSTEINE (NAC) The one, in case you need to ease/avoid the symptoms of the hangover. 1 - 2 cups of a good red wine is ok, but more can make you feel not so good the next day. N-acetylcysteine, also known as NAC, is one of the best supplements you can use to combat the hangover and the negative effects of alcohol on your body. NAC increases your body’s ability to produce glutathione, which is an antioxidant that can reduce the toxicity causing your painful hangover. NAC doesn’t have any major side effects, making it ideal for combatting your hangover without adding to nausea or drowsiness. To make it effective take NAC (roughly 200 mg) about 30 minutes before the first alcoholic drink. (on iHerb Doctor´s Best NAC Detox Regulators save with my code AQW5924 ) ** drinking one glass of water, after each alcoholic drink you may have, will help you avoid hangover negative symptoms as well a lot!!! THE TAKEAWAY Remember,a good quality sleep is vital for wellbeing. Make sure you`re always with positive mindset, well hydrated and protected whenever you go and whatever you do. We live only one time, and we have only one body and an incredibly elastic organ that covers this body - the skin. //I am healthy anti-aging enthusiast, not a nutritionist nor dermatologist. Therefore, you might want to clarify some things with a specialist first, especially if you have a specific health or skin problem. some sources used for scientific information https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326847 https://www.icecreamderm.com https://aaptiv.com/magazine/ https://www.verywellhealth.com