How Does The Natural Aging Process Affect The Skin

Skin and the Ageing Process

By Dr. Mark Clayson

Skin ages in two different ways, through inherited genes (intrinsic aging) and environmental exposure (extrinsic aging). The natural process of aging, referred to as intrinsic aging, begins in the mid 20’s and deteriorates continuously throughout the rest of one’s life. The skin gradually shows the effects of aging on the skin as collagen production decelerates and elastin looses its stretch. The skin exhibits the effects of aging slowly and permanently. The skin regenerates at a slower speed and new skin cell turnover is depressed, causing the skin to shed old cells at a reduced rate.

As a person ages, they begin to notice how the aging process has affected their skin. Intrinsic aging is displayed by: the development of fine lines and wrinkles, itchy or dry skin, sagging skin from loss of bone mass, loss of underlying fat producing hollowed out cheeks and eye sockets, thin or transparent skin, development of spider and varicose veins and the decrease in sweat gland production that effects the skin’s cooling process.The sun is dangerous. Most of the most harmful effects on the skin are caused by Ultraviolet Rays from exposure to the sun. Smoking, facial expressions, gravity, wind, heat and even the position of sleep all contribute to extrinsic aging process. Up to 80% of all aging may be due to exposure to the sun. Wearing sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher will reduce the damaging effects the sun has on the collagen and elastin cells in the skin. The sun’s rays contribute to freckles, rough skin, loose skin, blotchy complexion, spider veins on the face and rough, red patches on the skin called actinic keratoses. And, of course, skin cancer.

Dermatologists use the term ‘Photoaging’ to describe the damage to the skin caused by the sun. Photoaging occurs over time and varies depending on individual skin color and amount of exposure to harmful UV rays. Collagen and elastin production are stunted with sun exposure, causing the skin to lose its ability to repair itself and become leathery, loose and wrinkled.

Can a person reverse the aging process and win the war against time to bring back beautiful skin? Unfortunately, no, but as ‘character’ lines are developed on the face and body, showing the world the process of life and aging, it is possible to take preventative measures to reduce the harmful effects that the skin suffers. A proper diet full of rich, antioxidant vegetables and fruits, drinking a gallon of water a day and staying out of the sun are all simple processes with guaranteed results. In the chemical realm, the possibilities are endless and vast, either through plastic surgery or miracle drugs, many of which are unsubstantiated. Washing with mild soap, exfoliating with a gentle scrub and moisturizing regularly will maintain healthy skin. Once the skin has aged sufficiently, Vitamin A becomes depleted in the epidermal cells and epithelial tissues, causing deep, permanent wrinkles. Many skin care products use a synthetic form of Vitamin A to mimic the production of collagen and the reproduction and replacement of dead skin cells to give a temporary reprieve from the inevitable aging process.

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