I was a very strange child that concerned myself with things that seemed beyond my years. Around five or so, I was in the grocery store with my mom and asked: “Mom, how do you stay looking young?” She replied:

“Don’t drink.”

“Don’t smoke.”

“And don’t have a bunch of men jumping up and down on you. “

Thankfully my mom always spoke to me as if I was a grown-up. I got the last one as much as I could at that age and learned its wisdom more as time passed. Mom’s advice is sound as usual, but after getting older, I added a few more things to the anti-aging code.

Hydration Internal and External

Hydration is my holy grail. I think mom was already on that, though. Look at the first two things she mentioned - drinking and smoking. Both of those items are very dehydrating. I asked her later, and she did clarify that there is nothing wrong with drinking in moderation.

Internal

Most of you who follow us on Instagram, recognize that I remind you to drink water often. I also know that our busy lifestyles can keep us from drinking enough water, so I remind you when I remind me. Did you know by the time you get thirsty you are already dehydrated? Dehydration can lead to overeating and so many other health issues. I’ve had a couple of random quirks in my body over the years, and all of them have been improved or eliminated by drinking more water. (Please see the advice of your physician for any health issue as we are not doctors and are unable to provide health advice.) So drink some water.

External

All humans benefit an excellent moisturizing routine. Moisturize after every shower/bath as your skin is damp and it absorbs better. Lotion your hands after you wash them. I have very dry skin, so I seem to do best with any lotion labeled “healing,” and then I like to seal with an oil. Our Magic oil is terrific for that but for the total body; you can also use something more cost-effective like olive oil or avocado oil and save the QW Self Care line for your face. Here are two of my favorite lotions: Vaseline and Aveeno. Body Butters made of shea butter, and cocoa butter are also great for locking in moisture.

Another thing I would add is to slow down on the drugs. Outside of the wrong partner, I haven’t seen anything age people faster than hard drugs. No judgment because I’m trying to overcome my vices in other areas, but I just wanted to add that as an anti-aging secret.

The moral of this story is hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate. Also, don’t do dehydrating things, have fun but watch where you sling your privates. Our bodies are 60% water, so this makes perfect sense. So like most of our lists, this one isn’t exhaustive. We would love to hear more about your anti-aging secrets. After you add us on Instagram and Twitter, wink-wink nod-nod, leave us your anti-aging tips in the comments below.