Many women – and a growing number of men – are well accustomed to caring for their skin. From moisturisers to facials, botox to facelifts, the nation is used to spending lots of cash in the pursuit of youth. But there are some simple and highly effective ways to younger looking skin. Ways that will help you prevent further damage too.

Limit sun-exposure
This is first and foremost the most important way to prevent premature ageing. Experts say that 90% of skin damage that leads to premature ageing is done in early childhood. If you avoided intense sun-exposure during this stage, you should have limited the damage. If you are young enough for preventative measures, cover up with a high SPF sunscreen at all times.

Everybody loves a tanned body, which is why so many people will fall victim to premature ageing. But you can get a damage-limitation tan. Always avoid the hottest hours of the day – usually between 11am and 3pm. Gradually increase your resistance to intense sunlight by starting with 30-minute periods in the sun with a 15 or higher SPF lotion, building gradually to longer spells.

Avoid yo-yo dieting
A recurrent cycle of gaining and losing weight will cause your skin to stretch and become less elastic. As you age, excess skin will be more prone to sagging and wrinkles simply by the force of gravity. This doesn’t mean that you should eat what you want to achieve younger skin. Remaining overweight will also contribute to older looking skin, as excess fat can accumulate around your chin, neck and cheeks as you age. Maintaining your ideal weight will keep your skin firm and keep you in optimum health.

Relax – don’t wrinkle
Frowning uses far more facial muscles than smiling, so don’t worry, be happy. Fine lines appear where the muscles contract around the forehead, eyes and mouth, so make a conscious effort to relax any tense muscles in your face.

Sleep right
Most people have a favourite sleeping position, but did you know that lying repetitively on one side could promote lines and wrinkles? You are applying hours of pressure and pulling on your delicate skin. It is best to sleep on your back.

Eat fish
Fatty fish such as mackerel, tuna, sardines and salmon, are essential sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These are essential for skin health – as well as brain and joint function – but many people are deficient. If you have skin problems such as eczema or thick patches of skin, this may be an indication of deficiency. To help keep your skin vibrant, young and healthy, eat three portions of oily fish a week, or take daily supplements of omega-3. Omega-3 fats help to prevent dehydration in the skin cells. This keeps them strong and full of moisture, which can help to decrease the appearance of fine lines.

Quit ageing
Cigarette smoke – whether yours or someone else’s – exposes your skin to free radicals. These damage the microcapillaries in the skin, which limit the skin’s ability to absorb nutrients and accelerate the ageing process. Boost your diet with powerful antioxidants that help fight free-radical damage. Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fresh food including green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, beans, olive oil, nuts and blueberries, and wash down with a nice cup of tea. Or supplement with selenium, vitamins A, C and E and beta-carotene.