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What is the
Fear about Skin Aging?



We begin to age the moment we are born. Genetically programmed or chronological skin aging starts in our 20s and the effect of aging begins to be visible.



Why Skin Aging Takes Place?

Intrinsic aging also known as the natural aging process causes the skin to undergo significant changes:

  • The cells begin to divide more slowly and the dermis (inner layer of the skin) starts to thin. Fat cells beneath the dermis begin to diminish. The thinning skin becomes vulnerable to injuries and damage. The ability of the skin to repair itself also reduces so wounds and cuts may heal more slowly.

  • The underlying network of elastin and collagen fibers which provides the support for the surface skin layers loosen. The skin then loses its elasticity and begin to sag.

  • The sweat glands deteriorate, depriving the skin of their protective water-lipid emulsions. The skin's ability to retain moisture lessen and the skin becomes dry and scaly.

  • Frown lines, crow's feet and wrinkles develops.

Simultaneously with intrinsic aging , the process of photoaging may take place.



What is Photoaging?

Photoaging is the effect of persistent and excessive sun exposure on the skin. Photoaging interacts with the natural aging and may appear to hasten the process of natural aging.

Photoaging occurs over a period of years. People with fair skin and who have a history of sun exposure develop more signs of photoaging than those with dark skin. With repeated sun exposure the skin loses the ability to repair itself and the damage accumulates. Repeated UV exposure breaks down collagen and impairs the synthesis of new collagen. The sun also attacks our elastin. Skin loses its elasticity, becomes loose , wrinkled and leathery.

The visible effects of photoaging are:

  • pigmentation of the skin

  • dry and rough skin

  • fine and deep wrinkles

  • freckles

  • liver or age spots

  • thinner and more translucent looking skin

  • weakening of connective tissues which reduces the skin's strength and elasticity

  • fine red veins on face



Prevention of Skin Aging and Photoaging

The best way to combat photoaging is through prevention. Some of the steps are:

  1. Healthy lifestyle - Needless to say, the best long-term prevention for skin aging is a healthy lifestyle which includes:

    • eating a balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and use of healthy oil such as olive oil can protect against oxidative stress in the skin

    • regular daily exercise keeps blood flowing, which brings oxygen to the skin, an important ingredient for healthy skin

    • drink plenty of water

    • take a daily vitamin

    • manage daily stress

    • avoid smoking

    • get enough sleep

  2. Daily skin care regime - In general skin care product have the following function:

    • cleanse soils and remove makeup

    • moisturizing

    • protection of the skin

    • improve appearance and feel of the skin

  3. Use antioxidant products - Antioxidants are substance that act as scavengers of oxygen-free radicals, the unstable particles that can damage cells. Antioxidants in the skin are depleted when expose to sunlight and must be replaced by:

    • topical

    • oral supplements

  4. Sun protection - While you cannot stop or even slow down intrinsic aging process, you can prevent premature aging by protecting your skin from the sun. Dermatologist recommends comprehensive sun protection to prevent premature aging caused by sun exposure.

To further understand the benefits of antioxidants and source of rich antioxidants, click here.

How to take effective sun protection measures to reduce damage from sun exposure.

How to select sunscreen and use effectively.

How to pick sun protective clothing correctly for your needs.



Medical Advice and Treatment

Although it is not possible to reverse all of the effects of long term sun damage, your dermatologist may be able to improve the appearance of your skin with many treatment options such as:

  • alpha hydroxy acid exfoliation

  • tretinoin creams and gels

  • tazarotene

  • retinol

  • chemical peels

  • laser surgery

  • skin fillers

Scientific research in the field of anti-aging continues to give rise to new and promising treatment options. Your dermatologist can recommend a suitable alternative to you.

Click here to find an anti-aging skin care that works.



Take a QUIZ! Is any skin color more susceptible to photoaging? YES or NO?

The answer is YES! In general the fairer and less pigmented the skin, the greater the risk for photoaging.



Related Articles

For greater understanding about sun damage to the skin.



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