By Dr. Elizabeth Mullans

Anti-aging is the number-one topic that our patients want to address.  

There are several champions of the war on anti-aging and we can use them to keep our skin looking youthful from the inside out as well as by applying topical and cosmetic treatments.

We have so many skincare options, but there are three key action steps that we can all do to help our skin look its best: protect, boost collagen and moisturize.

 First, protect your skin. I cannot emphasize enough that everyone should use sunscreen daily on their face. Sunscreen protects against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays and helps prevent skin cancer. One in five people in the U.S. will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.

But not only is sunscreen protection against skin cancer, but it also protects against fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots and all those concerns you see in the mirror. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen because it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and make sure it is SPF 30 or higher.

 You can put sunscreen on under makeup, so please use it daily. A product like the Uptown Dermatology Tinted Matte Sunscreen SPF 50 has a tint and acts as a primer for makeup. So there are no excuses not to use sunscreen.

Next, it is vital to increase the skin’s collagen because it is an essential protein that provides support and elasticity to the skin, and helps it to appear more youthful and healthy.

But as we get older – collagen production declines.  So fine lines, loose skin, and dryness can occur and that makes our skin look older than we feel.

But we can take action.

Biotin, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, which are antioxidants, are excellent for your skin and provide nutrients to boost the skin’s collagen production. Also, antioxidants fight free radicals and the damage caused by UV radiation.

Here are some ways to boost collagen.

Vitafusion Gorgeous Hair, Skin & Nails is a vitamin with biotin and Vitamins C and E and other nutrients to generate collagen for healthy skin, and also to support hair and nail growth. So it’s the complete package.

You can apply Vitamin C in a serum form topically to your face. It helps prevent hyperpigmentation, improves the appearance of fine lines, and of course helps collagen production. Just layer a few drops on your skin after cleansing and before moisturizing. SkinCeuticals makes an excellent vitamin C serum.

Also, you’ve heard about retinoids and they are amazing for your skin. They reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing collagen production and stimulating new blood vessels in the skin.

Retinoids are topical Vitamin A-based drugs and the most used anti-aging compounds. Retinoids are prescription strength and a milder form is a retinol product and you can find it in a number of skincare products including Uptown Dermatology Retinol Age Defense Serum. Apply a retinoid or retinol product once daily, and at night because the skin will be sensitive to sunlight afterward. Use just a bit – a pea-size amount – and dot it on your face and then spread around.

Lastly, moisturize. You need to determine the right moisturizer for your skin – whether it’s dry, oily, or sensitive – there is something for everyone.

One essential ingredient I recommend in a moisturizer is hyaluronic acid. It should be the foundation of any anti-aging routine because it enhances the moisture content of the skin beyond comparison. Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in our skin that holds water and helps keep it hydrated and plump.

 It revitalizes the skin's outer surface layers, so they look and feel softer, smoother, and radiantly hydrated. This instantly improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hyaluronic acid can be found in everything from moisturizers and serums to sheet masks and even injectables.

 So be sure your skincare routine includes hyaluronic acid – along with retinol, sunscreen, and good vitamins.