While the aging process affects our entire bodies, aging skin seems to cause the most dramatic changes in appearance. But the visible effects on the epidermis, or outer layer of skin, are partially caused by internal changes that have probably been under way for decades. The best way to preserve healthy skin texture and tone is to practice skin care from an early age. Cleansing and protecting your skin from the sun, however, will benefit you at any age.
Types
Your skin experiences two variations on the aging process, natural and photo aging. Natural aging is based on your genetic skin type and the foundation you laid for healthy skin through nutrition while developing as a child. Photo aging from daily sun exposure plus other environmental factors acts to damage healthy skin cell structure. As you grow older, the tissue that supports your skin loses its firmness and elasticity through natural changes in the quality of your collagen and elastin.
Effects
When collagen production slows and elastin fibers break down, skin will sag and wrinkle. Moisture levels may decrease, leaving dry, rough areas in place of healthy skin. Although we experience 80 percent of lifetime exposure to the sun's UV rays before age 20, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the effects don't usually appear until years later. Photo damage results in a wrinkled, loose and weathered epidermis. Skin tone may be affected by the sun-induced aging process, producing blotches or "age spots." In addition, the AAD reports that 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer.
Considerations
Besides time spent outdoors and your level of skin care and sun protection, other lifestyle choices bear on the skin's aging process. Essential nutrients such as vitamins A and D and antioxidants present in fruits and vegetables support skin health. The quality of your diet partially determines how well you will age. Smoking cigarettes is also associated with more-severe effects of aging on the skin, as in deeper wrinkles or a leathery feel.
Prevention
Men as well as women can avoid skin cancer and benefit in appearance from regular skin care. Daily cleansing and moisturizing keep the epidermis and pores clear and functioning. Using an SPF 30 or higher formula sunscreen every day should be the foundation of your sun protection.
Treatment
Opting for facial or body skin treatments won't change any of the elements of skin aging, but they may temporarily change your looks for the better. Surgical facelifts or periodic botulinum toxin injections can firm sagging areas and reduce wrinkling. Esthetics treatments such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels can remove dead cells on the epidermis and improve skin tone. Most people find that professional treatments, however, are no substitute for practicing diligent skin care at home.
Member Comments