Want to reduce the appearance of ageing is one of the biggest requests that our clients bring to us. From sagging skin to wrinkles and fine lines and dark spots, there are a range of changes in our appearance as we get older that we all wish would stay away. There are several treatments that can minimise these, but what if we could prevent them from appearing in the first place – or at least slow them down.Want to reduce the appearance of ageing is one of the biggest requests that our clients bring to us. From sagging skin to wrinkles and fine lines and dark spots, there are a range of changes in our appearance as we get older that we all wish would stay away. There are several treatments that can minimise these, but what if we could prevent them from appearing in the first place – or at least slow them down.
The signs of ageing are caused by natural factors, such as our genetics, but also by external ones, such as diet, sun exposure, and lifestyle. Fortunately, there are in-clinic treatments and skincare products that can help to slow down the impacts of ageing, but understanding what factors are causing it will help us tailor the treatment to you.
Here are a few common causes of ageing skin and how you can address each one:
Slow skin cell renewal As we get older, the speed at which our body regenerates new skin cells slows down. Chemical exfoliation – such as chemical peels – can speed up this cell turnover process. There are also topical (cream) treatments that can accelerate cell turnover and stimulate collagen production.
Dehydration With age, your skin produces less of its natural moisture, drying it out more quickly. That makes moisturising even more important the older you get. Not all moisturisers are the same – look for one that will replenish ceramides (the skin’s natural oils), cholesterol and fatty acids in your skin.
Stress When you’re stressed, your body releases a hormone called cortisol that elevates blood-sugar levels. Excess levels of sugar can damage the collagen proteins, which play a vital role in strengthening the skin and giving it elasticity and hydration. While we can’t make stress disappear, there are ways to try and reduce it, like prioritising time for relaxation, meditating, and going for a walk.
DietA diet that is low in fresh food and water and high in sugar and alcohol consumption can accelerate the skin’s ageing. High sugar diets accelerate the process of glycation, a process that damages the collagen in your skin. Drinking plenty of water and focussing your diet on fresh food and less sugar will help keep your skin healthy for longer. Sun exposure. UV light can damage the DNA of skin cells. Your body is able to repair some DNA damage, but extensive damage creates problems, including leading to skin cancer. The sun also affects the elastin and collagen in your skin, causing it to sag, stretch and develop wrinkles, and it creates ageing spots and blotchy patches. Sun damage may not show while you are young, but the damage will cause problems later in life. Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and always apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater, reapplying it every 2 hours or more if you are sweating or swimming.
To learn more about how you can treat and slow the signs of ageing, book a complementary consultation with one of our Dermal Therapists.