If you’re fed up with anti-aging creams, serums and treatments that promise younger looking skin – and you still aren’t seeing results – don’t forget that genetics and your lifestyle still play the dominant roles in how you look.   

Dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons alike continue to report that topical treatments just don’t work, so you may be in the market for a cosmetic procedure that can buff away those wrinkles (microdermabrasion) or zap away age spots (Fraxel laser).   

Still, anti-aging cosmetic procedures aren’t your only option; if you’re determined to take control of the clock and improve your appearance, here are six more ways to stop your skin from giving away your real age:  

1. Steer clear of tanning booths. Even with adequate sun protection, tanning booths can speed up the aging process because of extensive UV damage. Damaged cells cannot produce collagen at a steady rate, which makes you much more vulnerable to wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. If you’re yearning for a healthy tan, try a sunless tanning product and keep your diet in good shape so you exude a healthy glow year round.

2. Say no to cigarettes. If you developed a smoking habit in your days of youth, consider cutting back and reducing your weekly intake. This harmful carcinogen will continue to destroy healthy cells and tissue, and your skin is usually the first to go. Stay away from smoke-filled rooms and other areas where yoru skin and lungs will absorb cigarette smoke. You need as much fresh, clean air as possible to revitalize and refresh your skin cells.

3. Try a peel. Alpha and Beta-Hydroxy peels are ‘light’ chemical peels that can exfoliate the skin and buff away dead skin cells. If you need to clear up your complexion, these are valuable treatments that can enhance the skin between more powerful treatments such as microdbermabrasion and phenol peels. 

4. Reach for the laser. Laser resurfacing technology has quickly become a popular choice in anti-aging procedures, and offers one way to zap away fine lines and wrinkles while stimulating collagen production. Increasing the rate of collagen production can help you achieve that youthful glow, and may also help repair and restore any damaged cells.

5. Take care of your eyes. Clearing up dark circles and bags under the eyes can create a dramatic change in your appearance. Reduce the speed of aging in these key areas with a healthy skincare regiment and cooling gels and creams that reduce stress and puffiness. Cosmetic procedures that target this area include laser resurfacing, Fraxel and skin tightening procedures that firm up the skin and prepare it for its natural restoration process.

6. Stick with an exercise program. Regular exercise boosts your endorphin levels and improves circulation. Healthy circulation also means your skin can recuperate and replenish oxygen with ease, so make sure you’re engaging in enough cardio and weight-bearing exercise on a regular basis.  

From proper sun protection to regular appointments at the medispa, there are many ways to stop skin from aging and keep you looking your best. If you do pursue cosmetic surgery, a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist in your area is all it takes to find out which anti-aging skincare regiment will work for you. 

Learn more about anti-aging procedures and treatments in our skin management guide, or find a cosmetic dermatologist who can walk you through the process.