Shea Butter's Anti-Aging Benefits

by Dr. Robyn Tisdale Scott

Research shows that there are two different kinds of aging. They are called Intrinsic and Extrinsic. Intrinsic is the normal process of aging, and usually begins around our mid 20's.

Aging of this kind causes collagen production to slow, and the elasticity of our skin to lessen. Extrinsic aging is aging that is caused by outside or external factors. Some of the things that cause premature and extrinsic aging are the sun, smoking, repetitive facial gestures, and much more. Luckily, we are finding more and more that we can prevent extrinsic aging and get rid of the signs of aging effectively.

There are some very important things you can do to take care of your skin and make sure that you are protecting it from signs of aging. Keep your skin hydrated and supple with a great moisturizer. Organic Shea Butter is a moisturizer, but studies show that it can do much more. It actually has anti-aging properties which fight lines and wrinkles, dull skin and dryness. This will help immensely in the fight against aging. Shea Butter contains Vitamins A and E, and is a great source of specific healthy fats and acids which are great for your skin. In fact, some studies show that you can tell a difference in the way your skin looks in just 4 to 6 weeks. Smoother, softer and supple skin can all be achieved with Shea Butter, and it also protects your skin from the sun.

Speaking of the sun, it's one of the main causes of premature aging. Everyone seems to want that great golden tan, but later in life they are paying for it. The sun can cause your skin to have a leathery, rough texture, and it can also cause wrinkles and lines, and of course skin cancer. Protecting your skin from the sun is an absolute necessity. Along with smoothing on Shea Butter for protection, some things you can do to protect your skin from the sun are:

• Wear a sunscreen with a 30 SPF or higher.

• Don't stay in the sun for extended periods of time.

• Make sure you smooth on a great moisturizer before and after being exposed
to the sun.

• Wear a sun hat or umbrella.

You can also fight the signs of aging by quitting smoking. Smoking reduces the blood circulation to the skin and starves it of blood and oxygen. This can have several effects including deep lines and wrinkles, wrinkles around the lips and mouth, a yellowish or gray and unhealthy skin complexion, and a leathery appearance of the skin. In fact, it's fairly easy to tell if someone is a smoker just by looking at their face and their skin. Quitting smoking, or staying away from second hand smoke will most definitely benefit your skin.

Eating the proper amount of fruits and vegetables each day will help your skin stay healthy and young looking. There are essential vitamins and nutrients which your skin needs to maintain it's healthy look, and many of these come from fruits and veggies. Experts recommend 4 servings of fruit and an unlimited serving of vegetables per day. Eating right will help stop extrinsic aging. Make sure to drink plenty of water as well. Shea Butter, the right diet and nutrition and keeping the sun off of your skin will all help you fight the signs of aging.