Aging is a battle we all face, and countless products have been developed to tap into our vanity – and our wallets. But what really works? Which anti-aging products, promises, and myths are truly effective? Many make big claims but deliver few visible results.
Myth 1: The skin aging process is genetically determined.
Partially true! Yes, DNA does play a role in the external appearance of the aging process. But external and internal factors can significantly influence the aging process, both positively and negatively.
Negative factors: Sun exposure is a major driver of skin aging, especially if it leads to sunburn. Never forget – the skin never forgets a single hour in the sun. A twin study of a nun (never exposed to the sun) and her identical twin sister confirms this statement.
But negative stress also makes us age faster. It leads to increased cortisol levels, which can trigger premature destruction of collagen and elastin. The negative impact of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption goes without saying.
Positive factors: Nutritious diet is not only beneficial for health but naturally also for our appearance. When we provide our skin with the tools (vitamins, minerals, trace elements, secondary plant compounds, etc.) it needs to look good for us, it will do so. Our body strives for perfection – we just have to give it the chance to get as close as possible. Also, beauty sleep (getting enough sleep daily) is no myth but truly beneficial for beauty.
Conclusion: Our DNA does not entirely determine our fate. You can’t completely stop the clock, but you can slow it down significantly by doing a lot of the right things and few of the wrong ones. As Coco Chanel said, a woman ages the way she deserves – which also applies to men.
Myth 2: Drinking water is overrated.
False! Adequate hydration is essential for functioning skin cells. When the body lacks fluids, the water content in skin cells is reduced first (vital organs are always prioritized!), making the skin look tired, loose, and less firm. But sufficient water intake is important not only for the body's appearance but also for its health! Again, it’s about better nutrient supply.
Depending on how much exercise you do, you should drink two to three liters of water daily. Unsweetened teas are also a good option. Especially green tea has positive anti-aging properties. The tannins it contains neutralize free radicals caused by environmental factors, stress, poor diet, or smoking, for example.
Myth 3: Fruits and vegetables keep you fit and young.
True! A healthy diet full of vitamins, minerals, and secondary plant compounds is important to stay fit and young. You should especially focus on a rich intake of antioxidants, as they neutralize free radicals that increase due to everyday stress, negative environmental influences, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Secondary plant compounds are powerful too. Resveratrol, for example, has strong antioxidant properties due to its polyphenols. These are the natural defenses of plants released in response to stress. Or xanthones, found mainly in mangosteen, which are among the most potent secondary plant compounds. It’s no coincidence that all these are found in vabon essentials.
Lutein protects against the harmful effects of sun exposure. It is included in vabon blossom. When choosing supplements, always make sure they are as natural as possible!
Myth 4: Facial exercises help against wrinkles.
Partially true! Many facial yoga exercises and similar routines can actually worsen wrinkles. Why? Just look in the mirror while doing the exercises – then you’ll have the answer. However, if facial gymnastics is done correctly – that is, wrinkle-preventing – it can have a plumping effect by building facial muscles. This requires immense consistency. No exercise can stop collagen and elastin loss. The only help is to take collagen and anti-aging nutrients, for example, those contained in vabon blossom.
Myth 5: You can skip sun protection in the shade or on rainy days.
False! Skincare specialists consider daily use of sunscreen one of the best and easiest anti-aging and wrinkle prevention techniques. The best way to prevent visible signs of aging is to use a day cream with UV protection. And don’t forget – for beauty insiders, the face extends down to just below the décolleté.
Myth 6: Exercise extends lifespan.
True! – Numerous studies show the positive effects of moderate endurance exercise on heart health and breast cancer prevention. Regular physical activity is a true health booster and fountain of youth for the body. Especially endurance sports like running or cycling mobilize the whole body by providing it with plenty of oxygen.
Important: For a positive health effect, you should raise your pulse moderately for at least 20 minutes and break a sweat. This improves blood circulation throughout the body, which mobilizes nutrient transport to and toxin removal from even the most remote parts of the body.
The better the nutrient supply – the better the body functions. Better-nourished cells divide more “intelligently,” resulting in better-functioning cells. Gentle strength training also stimulates hormone production and boosts metabolism as well.
