Let's get deep down about superficial good looks
There's beauty in an aging face -- time's passage can etch in all the complex joys and sorrows that you experience and give you a vivid, appealing appearance. But when your face is showing wear and tear from too much sun exposure, smoking (anything), years of dehydration or lack of good internal health (what goes on in your gut impacts your skin), then it's time to do some repair work on your outside -- and your inside.
Step one is to nurture a healthy gut biome. The gut-skin axis (yes, it's real) is disrupted by a diet lacking fiber and essential nutrients and containing added sugars and red and processed red meats. That can fuel psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne, rosacea and alopecia and lead to reduced skin elasticity and premature wrinkles. A healthy, plant-based diet is your most skin-loving option.
Step two is to nurture your skin biome (yup, that's real too). Stick with facial cleansers with a pH around 4.5. Wear non-toxic micronized zinc sunscreen -- SPF 35 -- daily. Also, there's emerging -- but not yet solid -- info that products containing prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics may help skin stay healthy and supple. (Ever try a yogurt facial?) In addition, stay well-hydrated and keep skin moisturized. Petroleum jelly is cheap and effective. And getting 15 milligrams a day of collagen (or gelatin) helps connective tissue -- in your skin and all over -- stay younger.
Step three, check out my book, "YOU: Being Beautiful," for all you need to know about looking great inside and out.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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