Page 23 - Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Booklet

induced damage to their DNA.

Collectively, these elements can serve as the foundation of an effective skin-care
regimen, however, through incorporating some basic lifestyle precautions, it is possible to
naturally gain similar benefits. These are:

·Avoid spending a great deal of time outdoors during peak UV times
(approximately 10am to 4pm)

·Wear a wide brimmed hat and long sleeved clothing.

·Take an astaxanthin supplement. Aside from its many other health benefits,
astaxanthin is especially effective in protecting the skin from UV damage.

At the next level of priority in the pyramid is the use of skin-care products containing
retinol and alpha- hydroxy acids. These agents have been on the market for several
decades and are readily available, in consumer concentrations, as key ingredients in many
product lines.

Alpha- hydroxy acid serves as a stimulant for the production of hyaloronic acid, an
important substance for maintaining the skin's hydration, as well as collagen, both of
which serve to thicken the dermal layer thus helping to reduce wrinkling. Alpha-hydroxy
acid also serves as an effective exfoliant, thereby encouraging the production of new skin
cells and renewal of the epidermis.