As you age, it’s not just wrinkles you have to worry about. The loss of bone and fatty tissue can cause your face to sag and droop. But there are things you can do to prevent this from happening. Here are some tips on how to maintain your facial structure.
Exercise your facial muscles
Just as you exercise your body muscles to stay toned, you need to exercise your face muscles to keep them toned. There are various exercises you can do, such as making faces in the mirror or placing your palms on your cheeks and pushing outward.
There are also a few basic facial yoga poses that can help to reduce wrinkles and improve muscle tone. The following are some of the most effective poses:
- The nose-wrinkle pose: This pose is simple, but it is very effective in toning the muscles around the nose. To do this pose, simply scrunch up your nose as tightly as you can for 10 seconds, and then release. Repeat 5 times.
- The smiley-face pose: This pose is great for toning the muscles around the mouth and cheeks. To do it, simply smile as widely as you can and hold for 10 seconds. Then relax and repeat 5 times.
- The fish face: This pose is designed to stretch and tone the muscles around the cheeks and lips. To do it, suck in your cheeks and lips as much as you can and hold for 10 seconds. Relax and repeat 5 times.
Protect your skin from the sun
Ultraviolet rays can damage your skin and contribute to the breakdown of collagen, which leads to sagging skin. So be sure to wear sunscreen daily, even if it’s cloudy. Additionally, avoid tanning beds since they can cause skin cancer, premature aging, and other serious health problems. They also emit high levels of ultraviolet radiation that damage your skin.
When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. And be sure to apply it liberally, reapplying every two hours or after swimming or sweating. This will help to ensure that your skin is adequately protected.
On the other hand, when choosing to clothe to protect your skin from the sun, opt for light-colored fabrics that will reflect the sun’s rays. Additionally, wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face and neck, and sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes. You should also avoid being out in the sun during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Eat a healthy diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein helps keep your skin healthy and provides the nutrients your body needs to produce collagen. Some good foods to eat for collagen production include:
- fruits like oranges and strawberries
- vegetables like broccoli and spinach
- protein-rich foods like chicken and fish
You should also ensure you’re getting enough vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, and kiwi. They can help to keep your skin looking toned and elastic.
In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy skin. They can help to reduce inflammation and keep your skin moisturized. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish, nuts, and seeds.
Finally, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This will help to keep your skin looking plump and hydrated. Ensure to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily for optimal skin health.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is essential for overall health, but also critical for maintaining healthy skin. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more stress hormone cortisol, which breaks down collagen. Additionally, sleep deprivation can cause inflammation, which can lead to skin problems like acne. So aim for seven to nine hours of sleep every night.
To get the most out of your sleep, practice good sleep hygiene. This includes avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening, and drinking alcohol or eating large meals before bed. You should also create a calm and relaxing environment in your bedroom, and establish a regular bedtime routine. This will help your body wind down and prepare for sleep.
Consider cosmetic surgery
If you’ve tried all of the above and your face is still sagging, you may want to consider cosmetic surgery. Procedures like a facelift or brow lift can help tighten loose skin and give you a more youthful appearance.
Your teeth also play a role in your facial structure, too. When your teeth are crooked or out of alignment, it can cause your face to look off balance. And if you have missing teeth, it can lead to bone loss in the jawbone and contribute to sagging skin. So be sure to keep your teeth healthy and in good shape with regular dental checkups and cleaning.
You may also consider getting dental implants. They are a great way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. And they can also help improve your facial structure because when your teeth are in alignment, it helps keep your face balanced and symmetrical.
These are just a few tips on maintaining your facial structure as you age. By following these tips, you can help prevent your face from sagging and drooping.
