5 Anti-aging habits and herbs for the skin

I'm a firm believer that nature gives us everything we need for all of life's challenges. And even though aging is a natural process that we should embrace, nature also gives us what we need to combat the not-so-pleasant challenges that come along with getting older.

One critical point to embracing the aging process in a natural way is understanding the tools that are available to us and how to use them. Armed with that knowledge, you can reap the benefits of aging gracefully without intrusive and expensive options like surgery, botox, and tons of over-the-counter products.

Case and point.These 5 habits and herbs that help with age symptoms.

Turmeric. Turmeric has been a staple in the health and beauty world for a long time. I mean centuries. One of its composing compounds, curcumin, has been proven to have anti-aging properties. Washing your face with turmeric soap is one way to infuse it into your daily habits for gradual results.

Stop smoking. Smoking is one of the most skin-damaging habits anyone can have because it speeds up the aging process. It causes wrinkles and causes the skin to dull over time. If you smoke, stop.

Aloe vera. Studies have shown that applying aloe gel to the skin reduces the appearance of wrinkles and adds collagen to the skin, which keeps the skin looking young.

Essential oils. Applying small amounts of essential oils mixed with a carrier oil on wrinkles may help reduce them. Often essential oils are applied in specific combinations that heal skin without causing irritation, as long as they’re diluted with a carrier oil. The essential oils that may help improve the appearance of wrinkles when used in different combinations with a carrier are:

  • Argan
  • Carrot seed
  • Clary sage
  • Frankensince 
  • Geranium
  • Grape seed
  • Jojoba
  • Lavender
  • Rose
  • Rosemary
  • Sandalwood

Some people are sensitive to essential oils. Always do a patch test with every product that contains essential oil if you have a history of sensitivity. Apply a small amount to your wrists and wait 24 hours to see if you have a reaction.

Facial massages. Research shows using a handheld facial massager can decrease the appearance of wrinkles by increasing proteins that make the skin smooth. Experts also say massaging your face for 3-5 minutes a day can have the same effect.

BONUS: Use all-natural products. Natural products are free of the harsh ingredients that can make aging symptoms worse. Natural products promote your skin's rejuvenation and encourage it to heal itself, revealing happy, healthy, radiant skin.