Skin aging is a problem that everyone faces. This is one of the main signs that determine the age of people. Despite the fact that cosmetic products help to look younger, aging of the skin cannot be completely reversed.
The skin consists of 3 main parts. The outer layer (epidermis) contains skin cells, proteins and pigments. The middle part (dermis) contains nerves, blood vessels, sebaceous glands and hair follicles. The interior includes sweat glands, hair follicles, blood vessels, and fat. Each layer contains collagen, which makes the skin supple, and elastin, which gives the skin elasticity.
As we age, collagen and elastin fibers break down, causing the skin to sag and wrinkles. Cell pigmentation increases and age spots appear. The sebaceous glands produce less fat, so the skin becomes drier.
There are two main causes of skin aging: internal and external.
1. Internal aging, known as the natural aging process, is genetically engineered. This type is verifiable. The aging process begins from 20-25 years. Signs of internal aging: wrinkles, thin and brittle skin, loss of firmness, dryness, sunken cheeks and eye sockets, sagging skin.
2. External aging is caused by lifestyle and environmental factors. These factors often act together with the normal aging process and lead to premature age-related changes. It:
- Exposure to the sun: the rays of the sun destroy elastin and collagen, which causes a loss of elasticity. The sun also accelerates the production of melanin, which leads to the appearance of age spots.
- Smoking - aging the skin by increasing harmful free radicals that damage cells.
- Poor nutrition: lack of omega-3 fatty acids causes dry skin and itching. The antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables are also needed to help the body fight free radicals. Caffeine and alcohol dehydrate the skin.
- Lack of sleep: our body recovers during sleep.
- Facial expression: repeated movements of the face cause muscle contraction and lead to wrinkles.
- Weight: Gravity pulls the skin down, causing it to sag.
Is it possible to slow down skin aging? Of course you can! To do this, you must follow the simple requirements:
- Stay out of the sun between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every morning to prevent aging of the face. You should use sunscreen year-round. In winter, snow reflects the sun's rays so that the skin receives twice as much ultraviolet radiation.
- Eat foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Use anti-aging skin care products that contain vitamin C, retinoids and peptides. A cream containing coenzyme Q10, keratin, can also stop the appearance of wrinkles, because these natural ingredients stimulate collagen synthesis.
- Carry out special procedures to remove age spots and reduce wrinkles. Laser resurfacing, chemical peels remove the upper layer of the skin and stimulate collagen production. These procedures will help get rid of age spots, uneven complexion and wrinkles. Botox will help to temporarily remove wrinkles. A facelift can be used to remove sagging skin.
- Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Stop smoking.
Personally, I think that the best and most reasonable approach is to take care of your appearance and try to always look great, but you don’t need to be obsessed with it. And it should be remembered: each age has its pros and cons.