We experience many physical changes as we age. Our joints aren’t as flexible, our muscles aren’t as strong, and then of course there’s our changing appearance. Looking back, many of us yearn for those days where we could wear a bikini at the beach. It doesn’t help that we are bombarded by the media with stories of Hollywood plastic surgery and other telltale signs our society is obsessed with youth. But don’t get caught up in this mindset. Remember, it’s about looking the best you can for your age, not about being something you’re not. Fortunately, no matter what age you are, there are a few things that can help you look and feel your best.

(1) Eat Healthy

While this may sound cliché, what you eat actually has a lot to do with not only your physical health, but your appearances also. Just like your other organs, your skin needs certain nutrients to be in optimal shape. Skincare professionals recommend drinking plenty of water on a daily basis. As far as what to put on your plate, fresh fruits and vegetables contain key ingredients – antioxidants, vitamins, and numerous minerals. There are also nutrients in some meats and eggs that are important like retinol A, which is the animal form of vitamin A. If you’re eating a healthy diet, you probably already have these things covered. But there is one important ingredient which many people don’t think of, and that is healthy oils. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fat – a healthy fat that researchers claim has a number of health benefits. Flax seed oil does also, but this one is special because it also contains an ingredient rarely seen in Western diets – omega-6 and omega-9. Try adding a tablespoon of each of these when you’re cooking a dish.

(2) Exercise

Again, this sounds cliché, but there’s a good reason for it. Exercising increases circulation across your entire body. What does this mean for your skin? That the increased bloodflow delivers more nutrients to your skin cells.  So not only will you be helping your heart and muscles, but your skin too. Even if you have a physical disability, there’s always at least some exercises you can still do. Talk to your doctor to find out which would be right for you.

(3) Sun Protection

Like the other tips, this is a good rule of thumb no matter what age you may be. Researchers have discovered that all forms of ultraviolet radiation (UVA, UVB, and UVC) are what’s know as carcinogenic – they are something that is more likely to produce cancer. And while young people may get away with it, years and years of that sunlight beating down on your skin takes a toll. So pickup some sunscreen next time you are at the drugstore and use it anytime you go outside. There are even inexpensive anti-wrinkle creams which also have UV-blocking agents in them, so you can kill two birds with one stone.

(4) Cosmetic Procedures

Thanks to today’s technology, there are several lasers on the market which work wonders on your skin. There are also chemical peels and micro-dermabrasion procedures. Many dermatologists and plastic surgeons can offer you these treatments. Now if you’re considering something more drastic, like going under the knife, there are important things you need to consider. Reality TV shows may make it seem like a walk in the park, but not only is cosmetic surgery expensive, there are real risks and complications you need to take into account. Just read one of the online plastic surgery forums to hear some of these disaster stories. This is not something that should be taken lightly, so consult with multiple doctors as well as your loved ones before you undergo a face lift, tummy tuck, or other surgical procedure.

Most of these are simple and in-expensive steps you can apply to your daily life. Of course talk to your doctor first before making any dietary or other lifestyle changes.