54 August 2014 www.womanthismonth.com Anti-ageing: For sceptics of anti-ageing products it is vital to understand that they do work. Their alphahydroxy acids (AHA) and anti-oxidants along with deep hydrating agents prevent dryness and wrinkles. AHAs, found naturally in fruits, remove the top layers of dead skin cells. AHAs can treat acne and acne scars, in addition to improving the appearance of photo-aged skin, firming and smoothing skin. Antioxidants like vitamin E and C counteract freeradicals, minimising damage and ageing of skin. If you are over 20 years, an eye cream should be a staple of your skin care routine. “Skin around the eyes lacks oil glands and wrinkles easily. Eye creams with peptides work to boost collagen production, making the skin firmer,” says Dr Samira. Never undermine the power of sunscreen. It helps prevent skin cancer and breakdown of collagen by minimising exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. It is a must for older women, who have thinner and looser connective tissues. The earlier you start using sunscreen, the better. Remember to slather it on 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure. Any sudden change in the skin, the size or colour of moles and lesions could reflect an underlying disease. This should be checked by your doctor immediately. Hair: A single hair strand lives between two to six years. Exposure to heat from styling tools and chemicals from dyes cause cuticle cells to undergo wear and tear, leaving the hair rougher and more prone to breaking. A decrease in melanin causes greying of hair. The growth of new hair is impaired with age. Moreover, some follicles stop producing hair resulting in the thinning of hair. These changes are greatly influenced by genes. Treatments, such as mesotherapy, and nutritional supplements have proven to decrease hair fall and promote its growth. Our expert suggests minimal use of styling tools to keep hair healthy. Nails: Supplements can rectify a nutritional deficiency which may cause brittle or t hick nails. “Keep nails strong and healthy by protecting your hands with gloves whilst working around the house and applying moisturiser or Bepanthen ointment regularly,” suggests Dr Samira. Mind over Matter Our Expert: Dr Farzana Alsayed, consultant neurologist and clinical neurophysiologist at Gulf Neurology Centre “Mental health is the way you think, feel and create good relationships around you. Good mental health helps you enjoy life and cope with day-to-day problems,” says Dr Farzana. She sees women over 40 complain mainly about tension-related headaches, vertigo, numbness and weakness. Some of these may be due to multiple sclerosis or disc prolapse in the neck or back regions. “Difficulties in memory and concentration are usually due to vitamin deficiency, thyroid dysfunction, or stress or depression,” Dr Farzana explains.Neurological disorders, such as stroke, dementia and peripheral neuropathies, usually strike those over 50 years. They are mostly related to diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. Mental wellness: A healthy diet providing omega 3 acids, vitamins B12, E and C, antioxidants as found in raspberries and blackberries is primary to the prevention of mental illness. Exercise comes next. Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of strokes, dementia and other neurological disorders. The third important step is good sleep. Sleep heals the body, reduces anxiety and migraines, and improves memory and concentration. Lastly, avoid stress. Prolonged stress and anxiety can disrupt internal systems and exacerbate mental conditions like depression. It can raise blood pressure, blood sugar and suppress the immune system, leading to strokes, infections and memory impairment. “As women, we juggle many roles and though it may seem impossible to de-stress, remember to always make time for yourself. Think of this as an order from your doctor, so you will not feel guilty. Set aside at least 15 minutes daily to do something for yourself, like going for a walk, calling a friend or enjoying a hobby,” Dr Farzana adds.
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