Taking a practical approach to anti-aging means putting a little kick into your hands, too.
A dermatologist told the US Sun that thinning hands, sun spots, and rough texture contribute to aging, even though many women neglect that part of their bodies.
Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, founder of Skincare Junkie, said that with most women focusing on facial skin care, the hands are often overlooked.
“One of the first places we see the signs of aging is our hands, which are exposed to a lot of sun and accumulate sun damage over time,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose.
“We tend to focus on facial skin care and neglect hand skin care and sunscreen.”
Experts have analyzed some of the obvious signs of aging hands.
“Signs of aging on the hands usually show up as hyperpigmentation, especially moles and sunburn,” she says.
Dr. Murphy-Rose also cites “increased skin laxity and decreased elasticity” as possible indicators.
“As the skin thins and loses volume, underlying structures such as veins and tendons become more visible,” she explained.
The dermatologist added that “dryness and rough texture” can also be a problem.
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As a preventative measure, skin care professionals recommended prioritizing sun protection.
Dr Murphy-Rose advised: “Sunscreen is most important. Start early and you’ll thank yourself later.”
She explained that everyone should take “measures to prevent cumulative UV exposure.”
This includes applying a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen or using physical sun protection measures every day of the year.
While T-shirts and hats are popular items to reduce skin exposure to the sun, doctors suggested special accessories to protect your hands.
She recommended investing in UPF gloves that are specifically designed to be worn in warm environments.
What is UPF? How is it different from SPF?
SPF measures the effectiveness of sunscreen, while UPF measures the effectiveness of sunscreen clothing.
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, it regulates the amount of ultraviolet light (both UVA and UVB) that passes through a fabric and reaches the skin underneath.
UPF 50 blocks 98% of UV rays and is considered excellent. On the other hand, a UPF of 30 is considered good and carries the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.
In general, dark-colored clothing provides more protection than light-colored clothing, and denser fabrics provide more protection than looser weaves.
Synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon also provide better sun protection than natural fibers, according to REI.
SPF (Sun Protection Factor), on the other hand, measures the time it takes for your skin to turn red when exposed to UVB rays alone.
Dr. Murphy-Rose also advised people concerned about wrinkles on their hands to regularly apply topical antioxidants to “protect against free radical damage that occurs at the cellular and DNA level.”
“This prevents the loss of collagen and elastin and prevents hyperpigmentation over time,” she explained.
“Keeping your hands well-hydrated helps keep your skin plump and promotes a more youthful appearance.”
She also highlighted important ingredients to look for in anti-aging skin care products.
“Consider using topicals containing retinol to promote collagen production,” she said.
Lifestyle choices like eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and avoiding smoking can also help promote youthful hands.
anti aging products
Dr. Murphy-Rose has revealed some of her go-to products to prevent hand wrinkles.
“One way to avoid buying extra products on your hands is to use what’s left over from your skin care routine on your face,” she says.
“While many of the best skin care products are designed for the face, they can also be repurposed for the backs of your hands, which is too often neglected.”
She recommended the $68 Megadose Super Antioxidant Moisturizer from her brand Skincare Junkie.
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Experts say the product “combines antioxidant, anti-pollution and anti-ageing properties.”
Contains vitamin C, which “prevents collagen breakdown.”
