Defy time the natural way, with these tips and tricks for younger-looking skin.

Are you dreaming of a smooth, dewy complexion? No matter how old you are, committing to a clean and green beauty routine means that you can still turn back the clock without resorting to surgery, Botox, chemical peels or artificial fillers.

Sleep deep

If you skimp on sleep, it shows on your skin straight away in the form of puffy eyes, under-eye circles and a sallow complexion. This is because sleep is necessary for the cellular regeneration process. Without it, the skin cannot heal and renew itself and it won’t retain moisture properly, so it will look dry and drawn. Unwind before bed with a warm bath, soothing music or a relaxing meditation, and make sure you get those all-important eight hours a night.

Water, water everywhere

Put water at the heart of your skincare regime; it is the key to a soft, clear, plump complexion. Aim to drink at least two litres of good quality water every day. Also, look for hydrosols in your skincare products. This is the water that is left after essential oils have been extracted via steam distillation, and it is rich in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and moisturising properties.

Add a serum

You already use a moisturiser on your skin – but what about a serum? Serums are applied prior to routine moisturising, and they leave a silky film on the skin, making it more even, velvety and younger-looking. Look for a serum that is based on jojoba oil. This all-natural wonder ingredient closely resembles the skin’s own sebum. This means it can penetrate deep within the skin’s layers to nourish, protect and hold the ageing process at bay.

Feed your face

When your body is lacking nutrients as a result of poor diet and a stressful lifestyle, your skin will look tired, dull and lifeless. Over-processed and refined foods, along with too much salt, sugar and trans fats, will contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin and can cause the skin to become saggy, wrinkled and dry. Choose nutrient-rich whole foods, as they will provide the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are responsible for healthy skin cell membranes, skin cell production and the production of collagen, which provides the skin’s structure and elasticity. An easy way to ensure that you are getting the optimal amount of skin-supportive antioxidants is to take an astaxanthin supplement. This is a powerful carotenoid which helps maintain skin moisture levels, smooth out wrinkles and minimise the appearance of age spots.

Top up your collagen levels

Nearly three-quarters of your skin is comprised of collagen: this is the main compound found in the dermis and it is what gives skin its firmness and elasticity. Unfortunately, collagen production in the body starts to decline from around age 21, and existing collagen stores also begin to break down. An easy way to boost your collagen levels and help reverse skin ageing is to take supplement your day with collagen. Marine collagen is the gold standard for skin health and this is a sustainable and environmentally friendly product. Having regular facial massages will also stimulate collagen production.

Chill out

Experiencing persistent stress has a significant impact on the skin’s appearance because it triggers overproduction of the inflammatory hormone cortisol. Cortisol breaks down collagen and causes redness, blotchiness, sensitivity and breakouts. Prioritise regular practice of a relaxation method that works for you, such as yoga or Tai Chi.