Skin and Aging
Skin
The skin is made up of three layers.
- The Epidermis (Upper / Outer Layer) skin cells, pigment, and proteins.
- The Dermis: blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and oil glands.
- The Subcutaneous: sweat glands, some hair follicles, blood vessels, and fat.
Each layer is held together and supported by collagen fibres and elastin fibres that provide strength and suppleness. These fibres are the supporting structure and in our youth ensure taught, smooth skin.
Skin cells are produced within the epidermis and over a twenty-eight day period, making their way from the base layers of the epidermis to the outer layer, by which time they have lost their fluids and are ready to fall off. This is referred to as the skin cell renewal cycle.
As we age the physical appearance and condition of our skin changes.
Time
Time affects the body's ability to produce and maintain the collagen and elastin fibres that hold the skin together giving it structure. This reduces the skin's strength and elasticity, resulting in sagging and wrinkles.
The dynamic of skin cells also changes and they become thicker and tougher, taking longer to mature. The exfoliation process slows causing a build up of dead skin cells that help to exaggerate fine lines and wrinkles. With fewer new skin cells coming to the surface it leaves your skin looking dull and tired.
Daily Routine
A simple daily routine: cleanse, tone, moisturise, both morning and evening, can help to maintain your skin and give a healthy appearance.
- A cleanser will help to revitalise your complexion by removing the day's impurities and any dead or dry skin cells.
- Using a toner will serve to reduce pore size and tighten skin.
- A moisturiser will re-hydrate the skin leaving it smooth and supple.
- Twice weekly use of a facial scrub will clean deeper into the pores and be more effective in removing dead skin cells - helping to stimulate the 'skin cell renewal cycle.'
Sun Exposure
Exposure to the sun's harmful ultraviolet-rays are the number one cause of premature skin ageing and have been proven to be a contributing factor in the development of skin cancer. UV rays help to create 'free radicals' that break down the skin's collagen and elastin fibres, damaging the skin's support structure and result in sagging and wrinkles.
Protection
Ideally one should not go out when the sun is at its strongest - around midday - and cover up well at other times. For active people, it is often difficult to stay completely covered and it is essential to protect your skin with an SPF. Apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure to the sun and ensure that you regularly re-apply. Exposure does not only occur on holiday, it can be during sport, commuting to the office, or walking to a lunch appointment. A moisturiser with added SPF used as part of your daily routine will protect the skin against such daily exposure.
Diet
A healthy balanced diet can be crucial in maintaining the proper function of your body and skin.
Vitamins that are important in the fight against aging include vitamins A, C, E, and zinc. These are important antioxidants that work to neutralise free radicals that damage the skins production of collagen and elastin fibres.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help fight obesity and high blood pressure. It can also help to release built up stress, tension and anxiety. From your skin's perspective, the increased blood flow and the improved circulation speeds nutrients to cells. Exercise boosts oil and sweat gland production, countering the natural slowdown that occurs with age. It helps the body to flush out toxins that, when allowed to build up, can cause breakouts and bad skin. Research has also shown that it aids the production of collagen and elastin fibres.