In the words of the singer/actress Cher, ageing sucks! It really does! No point sugar coating it. I’m grateful to be alive and in good(ish) health, but as time goes on the wear and tear on the body really does start to show, and it’s not fun. And as a woman, I’m beginning to realise even more so. So what have I noticed and how am I trying to tackle getting older?
The signs
Hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is when brown marks are left behind by trauma to the skin. Could be a burn, scratch, bite, spot, some form of inflammation of the skin, leaving behind a not so beautiful reminder. This has been a pain of mine on the face, thanks to spots, which thankfully is so much better now.
Joint pain. Sore knees, backpain from nowhere, probably just from breathing! Body parts that you really need and help to carry your whole weight, has caused me some form of discomfort on and off over the last couple of years.
Thinning hair. Probably the worst bit for me. Chemical relaxers on my hair, tight pony tails, as women we’ve done lots to this area. Some areas of my hair have always been a little weaker and not as full. And those areas seem less full now.
Skin on the body. Despite the fact my skin is deep brown in colour, I’ve noticed the skin on my body isn’t as thick as what it used to be. I can see the odd vein, as if my skin is more translucent. It marks easier. Skin from head to toe just doesn’t seem to be so robust anymore!
What am I taking?
Collagen powder. Collagen starts depleting from the body from the age of 25. And the older you get the more you lose. Collagen is essential for the condition and quality of skin, hair, bones, so you can understand why I’m taking this now!
Turmeric capsules. It’s been said turmeric helps with inflammation of the joints, so can help either relieve joint pain or help to keep it at bay. I use turmeric cooking but I take the tablets as well. This supplement apparently works better with the addition of black pepper in it, which is what I take.
Vitamin B Complex tablets. These can help convert nutrients into energy, helping with tiredness. It can also help the brain and nervous system to function normally.
What am I doing topically?
To help with hyperpigmentation on the outside, I’m sticking to fragrance free formulations in products applied to my face. This hopefully will cut down on any possibly irritation. I’m using sun cream everyday, as the sun can make hyperpigmentation harder to shift and can make it worse. I’m also using a treatment specifically to help improve on the appearance of hyperpigmentation marks.
Anything more I can do?
There’s always more! But there’s only so much my already stressed mind and low budget can cope with. So for now these things will do. Are they working? The hyperpigmentation issue took time but it has changed a lot thanks to my skincare routine. The rest is work in progress. We’re not taking days or weeks, it could be months before I see results! Patience and consistency is the key if you want to improve on certain issues.
List of what I’m using:
Applied Nutrition Collagen Powder – Strawberry & Raspberry Flavour – 5000mg
The INKEY List Mandelic Acid Treatment 15ml
Vitamin B Complex Tablets (Home Bargains)
Vit Direct Tumreric Joint Complex Capsules (Home Bargains)