If anyone knows how time and an active lifestyle can impact a person's body and skin, it's a plastic surgeon.

Nearly 11.7 million Americans turned to cosmetic procedures last year to improve their appearances.

However, New York City-based plastic surgeon Dr. Shirley Madhere said people can improve their appearance without going under the knife.

"As you age, your skin naturally becomes thinner and loses its elasticity," said Madhere. "Since your skin does not produce as many natural oils as it once did, it also becomes a bit drier. All of these factors make the skin more prone to sagging and to wrinkles."

Madhere offers the following tips for looking great at any age.

-- Avoid prolonged sun exposure. "I can't tell you how many procedures I have performed that could have been delayed if the client had taken precautions to protect his or her skin from the sun," said Madhere, who recommends a daily sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater. "Opt for sunless tanners and bronzers if you desire a sun-kissed look."

-- Work from the inside out. "What you put into your body is reflected on the outside," said the physician. A known aging culprit is cigarette smoking, which saps skin of Vitamin A and may give it a sallow hue.

"Quitting smoking will add years to your life and also will help prevent some lines and wrinkles from forming."

Madhere also recommends eating fresh fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants. A supervised detox plan will help eliminate toxins and clear up skin. The physician also advises keeping the body well hydrated, and to consider taking a multivitamin to compensate for nutrients that may be missing in the daily diet.

-- Rest and recharge. Nothing ages the skin more than stress, said Madhere. She recommends activities that help beat stress and keep one calm, such as yoga, exercising, meditation and creative writing.

"And don't skimp on sleep. Aim for seven to eight hours a night," she said.

"Keeping your skin healthy and young looking is simple if you incorporate some changes into your daily routine."