Aging is an inevitable part of life that affects different parts of the body in different ways. Skin aging is very visible to the world, which can make it embarrassing. Although you can't stop your skin from aging, there are some things you can do to keep it healthy, so that you always put your best face forward.
Causes
Normal skin aging has two causes: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic aging is the “normal” process of aging, which starts in your mid-20s. Major signs of aging don't show up until much later--how much later depends in part on your genes. Extrinsic or external aging is caused by factors other than heredity, such as sun exposure, gravity, sleeping positions, smoking and repetitive facial expressions. Some of these you can control, and some you can't. For example, you can't do much about gravity. But even a few minutes a day in the sun without protection can accelerate aging. And smoking causes biochemical changes that speed up the aging process.
Effects
Normal skin aging means that the dermis and epidermis layers of the skin start to thin. The fat under these layers can thin too. The skin becomes drier, because you don't produce as much of skin oils such as sebum, and your skin is not as elastic as before. Aging also means your skin doesn’t have as much protection against heat and the sun, which makes it more prone to damage. Skin becomes more fragile as you age, meaning it can bleed or bruise more easily and it doesn’t repair itself as quickly as before. Age spots--flat brown areas of the skin caused by sun exposure--are more prominent in aging skin. The lack of elasticity in skin means it droops and is looser, which can lead to a double chin and longer ear lobes. Wrinkles and lines are more pronounced.
Treatments
You can't reverse the aging process or stop it completely. However, there are treatments to help minimize the appearance of the normal aging process. Your doctor can administer an injectable filler for wrinkles. There are many cosmetic treatments to make skin look smoother and refreshed, including dermabrasion, chemical peels and some topical medications.
Prevention
One of the best ways to prevent early signs of aging damage is to stay out of the sun. When outdoors, use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Avoid indoor tanning. Don't smoke. And check your skin regularly for any changes in the size, feel or color of spots.
Considerations
A dermatologist can help determine the extent of any skin damage and the appropriate method of treatment. The treatment options depend on your skin condition and how it affects the aging process. As you age, skin disorders become more common, so you need regular doctor visits.
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