Head-to-Toe Hotness
Sushma Subramanian,SELF magazine
Take inventory all over and a decade from now, bartenders will still be asking to see your ID.
YOUR POSTURE. Hunching over is a sign of weak ab and neck muscles-and it can add eight years to your appearance, research finds. On the flip side, standing tall will instantly de-age you. The trick: Get up more. Walking engages those same muscles, improving your posture.
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YOUR ABS. Too many crash diets can result in a more-saggy-than-sexy midriff. "Gaining and losing weight repeatedly wears down your skin's elasticity," says Lorraine Maita, M.D., author of Vibrance for Life. Skip the BS juice fasts and slim for good by logging meals and exercise at Self.com.
YOUR LEGS. Keep them strong and you'll stay as energetic as a kitten. "Flabby leg are a sign that you're losing muscle mass, and wimpy muscles lower your endurance, making you feel weak and about 20 years older," Dr. Maita says. Add two 20-minute strength sessions a week to your workout and continue showing off in short-shorts.
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YOUR EYES. Shortwave light from a computer screen can cause dry eyes and blurry vision. Plus, squinting to read your Twitter feed may also lead to premature crow's-feet, which can make you look 10 years older. Eat foods rich in lutein, such as eggs. They antioxidant helps eyes process shortwave light.
YOUR TEETH. Grab a mirror and check out your smile. A grin that's all teeth could mean your gums are receding-which ages your face and also puts you at risk for periodontal disease. Root canals = no fun. Freeze time by brushing gently (pressing too hard can wear down gums) and flossing twice daily.
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YOUR HANDS. If you're not applying sunscreen daily, "your hands can appear up to 10 years older than they should," says Vesna Petronic-Rosic, M.D., associate professor at the University of Chicago. Avoud sun spots by using a moisturizer with sunscreen. One we like: Erno Laszlo Intensive Hand Cream SPF 25 ($55).
More from SELF:
5 Simple Steps to Cellulite-Free Skin
3 CrossFit Total-Body Workouts
50 Healthiest Snacks
6 Secrets to Firing Up Your Metabolism
