Unlocking the Secrets to Youthful, Beautiful Skin

Sometimes it seems like a mystery: just how did those wrinkles get there, anyway? Once we uncover the basics of skin care science, we can find cutting-edge anti-aging information. Then, with that knowledge, we can choose the most effective skin care products... the ones that really work.

The Science behind Skin Care So, to begin with, let's find out what ages our skin and robs it of a youthful appearance. Our skin cells are supported by a substance called collagen, which helps bind those cells to one another, along with a strand-like material called elastin. Together, this duo gives skin its tone and firmness, helping to keep wrinkles at bay. As we get older, there is a decrease in our body's collagen production. There are also molecules called free radicals that actually destroy collagen. As collagen decreases and is broken down, our skin loses some of its support and becomes more prone to show signs of aging, such as wrinkles.

A Surprising Solution However, there is good news! Studies show a way to fight back. The answer comes in the form of a surprisingly common -- but powerful -- antioxidant: Vitamin C. Unfortunately, the Vitamin C we get through our diet and/or daily vitamin supplement is not enough. Since the Vitamin C we intake does not reach skin-level, it needs to be applied directly to the skin to slow down or reverse the signs of aging.

When searching for a Vitamin C beauty regimen, do your homework first. Some skin care products have been quick to add "Vitamin C" to their label, but the type and amount actually in the product lead us to question its effectiveness. Make sure to check the kind of Vitamin C used in the product; ascorbic acid has been found to be the best to combat the signs of aging. In addition, Vitamin C quickly deteriorates when exposed to oxygen and light, so research how the product slows Vitamin C breakdown.

Advanced Skin Care Technology Recently one company has risen above the others, making great strides in delivering a high impact solution for firm, youthful skin. It has invented a hand-held misting device that combines low-pH (electrolyzed) water with ascorbic acid. The electrolysis process restructures the water molecules, reducing their size and allowing the solution to make its way deep into the skin's layers -- all the way to the dermis level, where collagen is produced. The solution maximizes Vitamin C's effectiveness and has been clinically proven to minimize lines and wrinkles, decrease sun exposure skin discoloration, and lessen the appearance of age spots. It combats free radical production within the skin and encourages the production of collagen. The low-pH water/ascorbic acid combination actually helps "reweave" the skin's building blocks! The result is smoother, younger-looking skin.

The Power to Defy Aging So, there you have it: the secret to a beautiful complexion. To truly defy time, make sure you choose an anti-aging product that delivers Vitamin C all the way to the collagen-producing cells deep in your skin. Now that you know this fundamental skin care tip, take that knowledge and fight back against aging. The power of youthful, beautiful skin is literally at your fingertips.


Leesa Haire, ND, RPh., is a naturopath and registered pharmacist who has seen hundreds of clients in her 30-year career. She holds a Doctorate of Naturopathy from Clayton College and a pharmacy degree from Mercer University. Visit her website at The Most Advanced Skin Care or send her an email to learn more.