Shedding light on skin aging

Over time, the structure of our skin changes, especially on the face. Slowly, we lose some hydration and elasticity. 

Skin aging is a normal and natural phenomenon, called senescence. This phenomenon accumulates damage to the skin cells and the deep layers containing collagen. With aging, the skin loses its elasticity, and it is at this point that wrinkles appear and the skin begins to sag.

What accelerates aging?

Certain external factors aggravate and accelerate the natural aging of the skin.  

• The sun: while moderate exposure to the sun is good for your health, too much UV radiation weakens the skin cells.  The sun sends harmful rays to the skin: skin aged by the sun is often thicker or thinner depending on the area and causes wrinkles, brown, pink and/or white spots, and dilated blood vessels.

• Tobacco: the toxic substances found in cigarettes contribute to the degradation of the cells of the dermis and the epidermis. Stress causes the production of free radicals, which are responsible for the premature aging of cells.

• An unbalanced diet: the health and appearance of the skin are closely linked to the quality of our diet. A diet low in anti-free radicals and essential fatty acids causes premature aging of the skin. 

• Dehydration, which promotes the formation of wrinkles.

• A sedentary lifestyle: regular physical activity or sport contributes to health and promotes good oxygenation of skin tissue.

• Hormonal deficiencies: Hormonal aging, particularly in post-menopausal women, can leave the skin thinner due to certain hormone deficiencies.

• Air pollution and the environment can also play a role in the process.

Generally, the aging process is first reflected on the face, but the skin of the entire body is also affected by age-related structural changes.  

Here are some tips!

• Get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night to allow the skin to regenerate naturally.

• Take regular breaks and relax.

• Eat a balanced and varied diet.

• Stay well hydrated.

• Avoid alcohol and nicotine.

Change your daily skincare routine.

In the morning!

• Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water.

• Gently pat dry rather than rubbing.

• Moisturize skin with a cream or lotion containing sun protection.
  

Evening routine!

• Taking baths or showers with water at 38 degrees is ideal. Water that is much hotter could dry out the skin.    

• Clean your face with a mild cleanser and avoid exfoliating too often.

• Use a mild, non-drying soap for the rest of the body.

• Dry skin gently by dabbing rather than rubbing.

• After showering or bathing, moisturize skin with a body lotion or lotion. 

• Use specific facial creams containing hyaluronic acid, Q10 or vitamin C.
  

Sun protection, every day, all year round!

The risk of sunburn increases with age because protective pigments form more slowly and thin skin is more sensitive. Effective protection is therefore essential, because UV rays attack the elastic fibers of the skin.  UV rays are present every day, even in winter, even when it rains. Dermatologists can't say this enough!

Why consult a dermatologist?

Our perception of ourselves can make a huge difference in the way we experience the passage of time. The more positive our attitude towards aging, the easier it will be, both mentally and physically, to feel better.

If you are concerned about or affected by aging skin, seeing a dermatologist can help.  He or she will be able to assess the progression of the aging process and prescribe treatments adapted to your situation.