Ageing

What is ageing skin?

As we get older, our skin naturally changes in appearance and condition as part of the ageing process. Skin ageing includes the loss of collagen, elasticity and laxity, change in skin tone and texture, and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.  We can begin to develop wrinkles and fine lines and can experience pigmentation changes and growths. Pigmentation becomes more irregular with age-spots (brown in colour) and redness and thread veins (telangiectasia) can become more visible. The barrier function of the skin can also become less effective increasing the risk of skin disease and conditions. 

Studies show that once we hit our mid-20s, our skin can lose up to 1% of collagen each year. Collagen is a plentiful protein in our bodies, and the loss of it over time causes our skin to lose elasticity and volume. 

This change to our skin is particularly predominant on our face, neck and hands.

Please get in touch to book an anti-ageing treatment at our luxury skin and aesthetics clinic in Bishops Waltham.

What causes ageing skin?

There are a few factors that cause ageing skin and that can speed up the process: 

• Intrinsic ageing of the skin is inevitable as our cells receive a reduced supply of nutrients and oxygen.The rate at which we produce epidermal cells slows which then affects the structure and function of the skin. This means that the skin thins and becomes less resistant to injury.

• The skin’s water content reduces meaning that skin is less able to retain water, resulting in dehydrated skin. Sebum production also reduces leading to additional dryness. 

• The number of melanocytes reduces which can cause pigmentation. 

• The body produces less collagen and elastin leading to the loss of skin elasticity. The volume of subcutaneous fat also diminishes, especially on the face, hands and feet.

• A large part of ageing skin is due to damage caused by solar radiation, otherwise known as ‘photoageing’. The dermis is damaged by UVB & UVA rays, whilst infrared radiation penetrates to the deeper dermis and subcutaneous tissue, where it may also contribute to sun damage.

• Smoking too can have a detrimental impact on the skin causing it to age faster. This is due to several factors; nicotine narrows the blood vessels which reduces the level of oxygen and nutrients that reach the cells. And, heat from burning cigarettes contributes to wrinkle development.

What is premature ageing?

Whilst everyones skin will show signs of aging as they get older, certain factors may cause your skin to age prematurely.

• Those who have had chronic sun or UV exposure are more likely to see premature ageing of the skin. This can include people who work outdoors.

• Tobacco smokers or those chronically exposed to other environmental pollutants are also likely to experience premature or more pronounced ageing of the skin.

• Premature ageing can occasionally be hereditary. 

• For women, a loss of oestrogen during menopause contributes towards skin ageing usually beginning in the late 40s to mid-50s.

• Excessive alcohol consumption and a lack of a balanced diet can result in dull- looking skin and redness. 

• Finally, dramatic weight loss and dieting can cause an increased volume loss in the face which can give the appearance of premature ageing.

How do you treat ageing skin?

Prevention is better than a cure, so lifestyle changes can prevent premature ageing of the skin including the daily use of a sunscreen (SPF50+ and above), not smoking, avoiding excess alcohol consumption and eating a healthy and  balanced diet.

However, Jessica Skin Clinic offers a variety of treatments to aid in improving the appearance of the skin and slow down the rate of the ageing  process.