Healthy skin lets our glow translate from the inside out. While age and genetics define some skin issues, there are some steps to take to help your skin maintain its elasticity and tone.

Skin is built of collagen, and as we age the collagen breaks down because of oxidation (that’s how butter goes rancid, rust form, etc.). Molecules called “free radicals” can be launched into our body by pollution and the sun. Free radicals cause oxidation. Skin contains rich stores of antioxidants because it is your body’s first line of defense against free radicals. As we age, however, the accumulation of environmental exposure to free radicals, plus the internal oxidation and breakdown of collagen, can cause skin to lose its tone and glow.

The good news is that by applying Vitamin E directly to the skin the levels of antioxidants in the skin receive a big boost. By providing the skin with an infusion of antioxidant defense against free radicals, the skin is allowed to keep its own stores of antioxidants and replenish them more easily. Applying Vitamin C to the skin also provides skin with this advantage. When you look for sunscreens or moisturizers, be sure to see that Vitamins E and C are featured prominently on the ingredient list. You also keep your glow by fighting oxidation on the inside. A regular antioxidant supplement, loaded with Vitamins E, C, A, and Selenium provides many health benefits by fighting oxidation in the body.

Water and sunscreen are two other powerful tools you can use to fight premature aging in skin. Water helps hydrate the skin, giving collagen a surge of moisture. Sunscreen is essential for fighting off the sun’s ultraviolet rays that contribute to loss of elasticity and tone—the fairer you are, the higher your SPF should be.