News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

 New studies show body skin is important to age perception

Is the skin on your body playing second fiddle to your facial skin? When it comes to skin care, many women prioritize facial skin care needs in order to achieve a visibly beautiful, younger-looking face. This is only natural — people tend to notice our faces before anything else — but it can result in a marked difference between the perceived age of our face and body.

It's easy to ignore the lesser exposed areas of our body — you might think that's what clothing is for, but not every occasion calls for pants and a long-sleeved turtle neck. That's why it's important to understand the unique role body skin plays in a woman's overall perceived age.

According to a recent study conducted at Germany's University of Goettingen, the appearance of skin below the face plays a big role in a person's perceived age and attractiveness. In fact, when judged independently from the face, your body skin can actually decrease your perceived age up to 10 years.

“Signs of aging on the body have a bigger impact on age perception than we realize and there are multiple signs that contribute to this impact,” says Rolanda Johnson, senior scientist for Olay. “As we age, changes in the connective tissue of our skin can reduce the skin's strength and elasticity, especially around our neck, décolletage, hands, elbows and knees. It's important to take care of the body, as much as the face.”

While some aspects of body skin aging can be chalked up to that pesky reality known as genetics, many age factors are within our control. Here are some tips from Olay to help keep your skin from aging prematurely.

1. Reduce sun exposure - Simply put, damaged skin can often be attributed to frequent exposure to UV rays. Therefore, keep sun exposure to a minimum and use a good quality sunscreen. Wear hats and protective clothing as well.

2. You are what you eat - A nutritious diet and adequate fluids can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

3. Indulge in moderation – Too much alcohol and caffeine consumption can lead to dehydration, so consider reducing your intake.

4. Don't smoke – Among its other heath hazards, smoking is bad for your skin and exposure to cigarette smoke can increase skin wrinkles and dryness

5. Keep stress at bay – It's not easy to avoid stress, but over time it can cause frown lines and wrinkles. Exercise and/or meditation are proven stress relievers.

6. Beauty rest – It's easier said than done, but the body requires at least eight hours of sleep.

7. Moisturize - Use a good moisturizing lotion and/or body wash. A moisturizer performs several important functions, including replacing lost water.

New Olay Total Effects Body Wash offers two products that go beyond cleansing to moisturize and help fight the seven signs of aging all over your body, Olay Total Effects Deep Penetrating Moisture and Exfoliating & Replenish. For more information, visit www.olay.ca.    www.newscanada.com

| More...