I'm early 20's and want to grow old gracefully - what do I need to know?

[Blackbird1234]

Very lighthearted thread - Just as the title says, really. I'm in my early 20s and take pride in my appearance (not meaning that I'm vain, but that I enjoy taking care of my skin, body, health, diet etc in order to stay healthy).

I'd like to grow old gracefully and am wondering if there is anything that I should be doing already? For example: I've read that you should use anti-ageing products from a young age - but is this the case?

Basically, any tips that anyone has would be very appreciated, thanks :)

Can't thank you all enough, I'll be applying these tips as and where I can and am off to get a moisturiser with SPF, thank you :) x

Don't smoke.
Exercise
Don't be a slave to fashion or trends, find your own 'style' instead. Be timeless.
Don't make massive babies.
Actually the last part is luck of the draw.

they say if you colour your hair it starts graying earlier.

Not true - greying is genetic. Your 20s are a great time to experiment with hair colour. I wish I'd been braver with mine.

Not anything new to add, but would like to re-emphasize all of the comments on weight and exercise. I started gaining weight in middle age and have had extreme trouble losing it. Haven't exercised as much as I should, either. Once you hit your 50s, these things start taking a toll and all of your bad habits start come home to roost. I've had more dr. appointments in the past 7-8 years than I had in the previous 50.

Also--social contacts are important. Friends and/or family (assuming neither are dysfunctional) will improve your mental health. Hobbies and pets can help in that area, also.