Premature Ageing

What is prematurely-ageing skin?

Premature ageing refers to the unnatural acceleration of the natural ageing process and is induced by daylight exposure (90% of premature ageing is caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun) and lifestyle choices (smoking, stress or diet). These factors trigger a slowing of collagen production and a breakdown in elastin, reducing “turgor” (or the snap back into place” reaction when skin has been pulled). The skin cell turnover process slows, and dead skin cells shed off of our skin’s suface at a slower rate. Other contributors to the quickening of the natural ageing process are sleeping positions, repetitive facial expressions and gravity.

Premature ageing isn’t natural. So what is natural? Healthy ageing – also known as intrinsic ageing - or the normal process of physical change over time that is more about your genetics than your lifestyle. This process begins in our mid-20s, but, unlike premature ageing induced by external factors, does not begin to show on our faces until decades later.

While intrinsic ageing is out of your control, you play a powerful role in controlling extrinisic ageing. And the right lifestyle choices and a proper product prescription are your first steps towards maintaining healthy skin.

The five major causes of premature ageing

The Sun

Responsible for a litany of skin issues, and more importantly skin cancer, the sun really is our skin’s worst enemy. Scientific studies have shown that repeated ultraviolet (UV) exposure breaks down collagen, impairs skin’s ability to repair itself, and attacks our elastin.

The damage is seen through deep wrinkles, age spots (hyperpigmentation), spider veins, a rough, blotchy complexion and a “leathery” look.

Cumulative exposure to daylight will also cause extensive damage. Fifteen minute walks outside and occasional lunches outdoors can add up to a weakened collagen and elastin, and of course, skin cancer. And even if you don’t see pink or red skin after being in the sun, that doesent mean that the damage hasn’t been done.

Smoking

Smokers are more likely than non-smokers to develop wrinkled, leathery skin, as well as a yellowish hue in their complexions. And even if you aren’t a smoker, being around a smoker can still cause damage to your skin.

Lack of Sleep/Stress

Skin is the first place to be affected by lack of sleep – the immediate effects of exhaustion are represented through dark circles under the eyes and sagging skin.

Stress is inevitable – just like ageing! But it also contributes to premature ageing. Often when we’re stressed, we furrow our brow, place our hands on our face and pull it in every which way direction, frown (where do you think the term “frown lines” comes from?) and twist our faces around, performing repetitive movements that impart permanent damage. Stress also results in hightened adrenal acitivty, which over time can lead to impaired health.

Lack of Exercise/Poor Diet

Lack of exercise can contribute to prematurely ageing skin, as exercise keeps muscles toned and stimulates blood flow.

A poor diet leads to a lack of nutrition for the cells and possible exposure to chemicals and preservatives. Fried and burnt food can also cause oxidation (free radicals from vitamins help counteract oxidation), leading to weaker cell structure.

Exposure to the Elements

Cold winds and low temperatures can dry out skin, depriving it of balanced levels of sebum (oil) that keep skin lubricated. Without these oils, skin becomes dry, and is more prone to premature ageing because of the lack of protective oils.

This goes for forced air heating as well. Warm, dry air acts like a giant sponge, soaking up moisture from everything it touches.

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