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Secrets to Youthful Skin

In addition to receiving Botox treatments, there are many other ways to achieve younger-looking skin. Here are a few:

Collagen

Collagen is the key to healthy skin that tends to age well. The change in the pH level of the skin caused by just a few uses of a retinoid product such as Retin-A or AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) can help generate collagen. "Collagen is the skin's structural fiber," dermatologist Dennis Gross said in the October 2005 issue of O Magazine. "As we get older, it breaks down, creating lines and large pores." The best way to keep collagen from breaking down is avoiding the sun at all costs. Dermatologists warn that up to 90 percent of wrinkles, dark spots and sun damage are caused by sun exposure, which is why sunscreen is important.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A really cuts down on the wrinkles, perhaps better than any other type of skin product. I would recommend skipping the over-the-counter vitamin A products and consider getting a prescription from your doctor for Retin-A, Renova or Retin-A Micro. These contain the ingredient "tretinoin," which is proven more effective on fine lines and wrinkles than retinol, found in most OTC products. Keep in mind that you shouldn't expose skin to the sun when using Retin-A, Renova or Retin-A Micro. You'll want to cover up with sunscreen and a hat. Vitamin A makes skin very susceptible to skin damage.

Retinoids

Retinoids are the tamer, non-prescription versions of the vitamin A derivatives listed above. Retinoids contain a less harsh Vitamin A derivative called retinol. These products are less potent and therefore great for weekly upkeep.

Alpha & Beta Hydroxy Acids

AHAs and BHAs are better options for women who find the Vitamin A products dry out their skin. AHAs are acid extracts that tend to be more moisturizing. You'll want to look for products that include glycolic (an acid extract from sugarcane), lactic (milk) or citric (citrus fruits).

Habit Changes

Increase your intake of water. Although you should be drinking 8-9 glasses of water a day, try to increase it to 13-15 glasses a day. Quit any unhealthy habits, like smoking. Smoking restricts the blood flow to the surface of the skin, making it look old. Protect your skin from the sun every day. The best way to go about it is to use a good sunscreen lotion. Increase your fruit and green vegetable intake. Finally, some skin experts swear by the old adage, saying your skin reflects what you take into your body at mealtimes. Looking for a "quick face fix" before a big night out? Nicholas V. Perricone, M.D., a professor of dermatology at the Yale University School of Medicine and author of "The Wrinkle Cure", has this advice: "Fish, fish, and more fish." His suggested menu for the 48 hours before the special event features freshly broiled salmon, and also includes fresh fruit salad, an egg white omelet, a mixed vegetable medley, a salad of leafy greens, and fresh melon for dessert.