Understanding Skin Conditions
AGEING & SKIN HEALTH
AGEING SKIN & PHOTO-AGEING
Skin ageing results from biological changes in the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. In the epidermis, barrier function is reduced causing an increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL). TEWL is the diffusion of water from the blood circulation through the dermis and epidermis finally to evaporate at the surface. Skin cell turnover slows causing dryness and there are pigment production changes, aggravated by sun exposure, leading to uneven skin tone.
AGEING & SKIN HEALTH
AGEING SKIN & PHOTO-AGEING
Skin ageing results from biological changes in the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. In the epidermis, barrier function is reduced causing an increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL). TEWL is the diffusion of water from the blood circulation through the dermis and epidermis finally to evaporate at the surface. Skin cell turnover slows causing dryness and there are pigment production changes, aggravated by sun exposure, leading to uneven skin tone.
TYPES OF AGEING
1. Collagen depletion.Thinning of the dermis leads to lines and wrinkles
2. Free radical damage. Pollutants and ultraviolet radiation produce free radicals which cause our skin to weaken and become dull.
3. Slow cellular turnover. Leading to dull, thinned skin.
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In the dermis, collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid levels decrease leading to reduced firmness, elasticity and hydration. This results in fine lines, wrinkles, dullness and decreased skin tone.
Hypodermis ageing is marked by the loss of fat in the face, which leads to decreased fullness, sagging skin and wrinkles.
Ageing of the skin can be divided into 2 categories: intrinsic and extrinsic.
Intrinsic ageing, known as natural or chronological ageing, normally begins in our mid-20s and is determined by genetics.
Extrinsic ageing accounts for up to 90% of skin ageing and is largely controllable.
The most common causes are:
• Sun exposure - the major cause, often referred to as photo ageing.
• Pollution and environmental stressors
• Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption
• Stress
The good news is that you can reverse some of this damage and prevent future negative effects on the skin.
What does ageing look like?
While the visible ageing process varies from person to person, some common skin changes include:
• Dehydration
• Dull appearance
• Rough texture
• Fine lines & wrinkles
• Loss of elasticity or a slower "snapback" when skin is pulled
• Hyperpigmentation
• Lack of firmness
• Loss of fat and fullness
Hypodermis ageing is marked by the loss of fat in the face, which leads to decreased fullness, sagging skin and wrinkles.
Ageing of the skin can be divided into 2 categories: intrinsic and extrinsic.
Intrinsic ageing, known as natural or chronological ageing, normally begins in our mid-20s and is determined by genetics.
Extrinsic ageing accounts for up to 90% of skin ageing and is largely controllable.
The most common causes are:
• Sun exposure - the major cause, often referred to as photo ageing.
• Pollution and environmental stressors
• Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption
• Stress
The good news is that you can reverse some of this damage and prevent future negative effects on the skin.
What does ageing look like?
While the visible ageing process varies from person to person, some common skin changes include:
• Dehydration
• Dull appearance
• Rough texture
• Fine lines & wrinkles
• Loss of elasticity or a slower "snapback" when skin is pulled
• Hyperpigmentation
• Lack of firmness
• Loss of fat and fullness