You are what you eat, goes the old saying. You are also what you drink and what you breathe. In the battle against aging skin, it's vitally important to pay attention to what goes into your body. Toxins, dehydration and pollutants are all factors that play a part in making your skin look older.

In addition to modifying your habits, using a good anti-aging, anti-wrinkle product can help.

Free radicals contribute to the signs of aging on the skin. These are tiny unstable molecules that arise naturally and that kill healthy cells. They cause wrinkles and lack of elasticity in the skin. The production of these small but nasty molecules is accelerated by environmental factors such as pollution, chemicals, and exposure to cigarette smoke.

The best way to battle the effects of free radicals is to eat a diet rich in antioxidants. These are found in a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Anti-oxidants are also key ingredients in anti-aging products. Look for a skin care product that boasts an unusually high percentage of antioxidants.

Good nutrition is tremendously important in the quest for younger-looking skin. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in chemical additives leads to greater overall health, which is reflected in the skin. If your diet is inadequate, the addition of supplements and vitamins will help to keep your skin healthy, making it appear younger.

Avoiding pollutants such as cigarette smoke is vitally important to skin. Toxins in smoke and pollution age the skin, producing fine lines and a blotchy complexion.

For years, healthcare professionals have been encouraging us all to drink enough water. Eight 8-ounce glasses, or three to four pints, is considered an adequate amount for the average adult. It is especially important to replace fluids if you are drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, both of which are dehydrating.

How does your water intake affect your skin? First, it cleanses. Water removes toxins from our bodies. Next, it hydrates. Moisturized skin has fewer fine lines and is firmer. Your cells are made mostly of water, and need it to stay plump and healthy.

Using a high-quality moisturizer is another necessary step in keeping your skin hydrated. Skin that is exposed to sun and other elements is depleted and dehydrated. A good cream locks in moisture, aiding in the disappearance of fine lines and sagging.

So when you eat right and take steps to feed your skin the right nutrients you can slow the effects of aging both inside and out.