Skin ageing, what can you do to manage it?

[A-esthetic]

Skin aging is a natural biological process with a significant clinical and social impact. A progressive increase in life expectancy means an increase in the number of the elderly population thereby further stressing the importance of skin aging. With advancing age, there is weakening and breakdown of protein fiber matrix of collagen and elastin which result in loose, thin and slack skin. Contrary to the common perception that skin aging starts in the late 40’s, it actually starts as early as the early 30’s. Skin aging involves two processes: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic aging is related to the genetic makeup of an individual and is time-dependent. Extrinsic aging is produced by various environmental contributors most important being exposure to the sun, pollution, imbalanced nutrition, smoking etc. Free radicals have also been implicated in causing skin aging.

Although sun exposure is the biggest contributor to skin aging, other factors can potentially also hasten the skin aging process.

As per dermatologists, there are ways to slow down premature skin aging:

• You can protect your skin by seeking shade, covering up with clothing, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and water-resistant. You should apply sunscreen every day to all skin not covered by clothing. A common misconception is that sun protection is not required during winter but this is not entirely true as people living in areas receiving greater UV exposure, i.e. Califronia, Florida, Australia, need to use sun protective measures even during winter.
• Free radicals present in the smoke significantly hasten the skin aging process. It causes wrinkles and a dull, sallow complexion.
• Every time you get a tan, you prematurely age your skin.
• Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may help prevent damage that leads to premature skin aging. On the other hand, a diet containing lots of sugar or other refined carbohydrates can accelerate aging.
• Drink less alcohol as it dehydrates the skin, and in time, damages the skin.
• Harsh scrubbing or use of chemical-based skincare products can irritate your skin which in turn accelerates skin aging. Gentle washing and the use of natural active or organic skin care products help to remove pollution, makeup, and other substances without irritating your skin.
• Perspiration, especially when wearing a hat or helmet, irritates the skin, so you should wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.

Always remember, it’s NEVER TOO LATE TO START CARING FOR YOUR SKIN….

Source: Zemits.com