“It all comes down to balance. If you fill your cup first and take care of yourself, you will be able to do the same for everyone around you.”
That’s been the motto in life and work for anti-aging expert Erika Luren, who is also the founder of Parasol Aesthetics, Dermatology & Wellness. Luren said one of the biggest questions she gets is, “how do I stay young, inside and out?”
“It all starts with skincare,” said Luren. “After 30, we start to have accelerated collagen and elastin breakdown. Collagen and elastin are the glue that keeps your skin tight and subtle, and while they build up in your 20s, that all changes after your 30s.”
Luren recommends a skincare routine that helps slow down the aging process. She said, “using a morning sunscreen with at least 30 SPF every day is critical, along with products that contain antioxidants like Vitamin C serum or peptides. My skincare line, Parasol Dermaceuticals, offers all kinds of products to help both men and women,” continued Luren. “Being consistent is key, and also being aware of things like avoiding the sun when you can."
Luren, who started her career as a nurse practitioner, said her background in dermatology allows her to provide her clients with advice based on science. The topic of hormonal imbalance has been a hot issue for many, as newer research shows how declining levels affect skin, hair, and bones. She said this is why it's important to incorporate hormone therapy with good-quality vitamins and herbal supplements as people age.
“I provide Bioidentical Prescription Hormone treatments to my clients, not synthetic ones,” said Luren. “This type of modern treatment creates a more natural form that is easily accepted and used by the body with less risk of side effects."
And when it comes to Botox, Luren said don’t wait to start the “overhaul” in your 50s.
“I [really] recommend my patients start doing small things a little at a time,” said Luren. “If you start slow and younger, with things like relaxing fine lines, you will look more natural as you get older.”
At 43 years old, Luren is not afraid to tell people her age. She said it was through seeing changes in her body that she learned the best way to combat signs of aging.
"I truly believe in beauty from the inside out," said Luren. "If you feel good, you will look good. I am living that every day."
I truly believe in beauty from the inside out. If you feel good, you will look good. I am living that everyday.
