Understanding the Aging Process of Your Skin: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors
As we journey through life, our skin goes through various changes, and one inevitable truth becomes apparent: our skin ages. But have you ever wondered why and how this happens? In this blog post, we'll explore the factors that contribute to skin aging, both internally and externally, and discuss practical steps you can take to improve your skin's health and appearance.
UVR contributes up to 80% of extrinsic factors that cause our skin to be damaged, or appear aged. While Our skin has natural protection, such as melanin and enzymatic antioxidants, to keep it safe, The best way to protect our skin from sun damage is to avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen.
Additionally, we get antioxidants from the food we consume, like vitamin A, C, E, and others. Another helpful step is to use external antioxidants through oral supplements or topical application, which can prevent oxidative stress and improve DNA repair. (Read full study here!)
The Culprits: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors
Intrinsic Factors
Intrinsic factors refer to the natural, internal processes that occur within our bodies and contribute to the aging of our skin. One key player in this process is the decrease in collagen and elastin production.
Collagen provides the structural support for our skin, while elastin maintains its elasticity. As we age, the production of these essential proteins slows down, resulting in sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Intrinsic Aging
Intrinsic Aging
Intrinsic aging is an inevitable physiological process that results in thin, dry skin, fine wrinkles, and gradual dermal atrophy. Many factors affect how our Intrinsic aging occurs, and how quickly it occurs. However, as we age, proliferation of the basel cells decrease, connective tissue growth factors decrease, and collagen production decreases.(read full article here)
Collagen
Collagen
Free Radicals
Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress on DNA
Free radicals are unstable molecules that have an unpaired electron in their outer shell. They are generated naturally within our bodies during various metabolic processes. These free radicals can cause damage to cells, including DNA, by stealing electrons from other molecules, leading to oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to counteract their harmful effects with antioxidants. When free radicals accumulate, they can cause significant damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids within cells. This damage can disrupt cellular function and accelerate the aging process.
Genetics and Ethnicity
Genetics and Ethnicity
Genetics:
genetic factors play a role in how our skin ages. Some individuals are genetically predisposed to having thinner or drier skin, which can accelerate the appearance of aging signs.
For example, ethnicity plays a role in aging skin. Studies show that Caucasians tend to experience earlier onset and more pronounced signs of skin wrinkling and sagging compared to other skin types.
A study found that Chinese women had more severe wrinkles around the eyes compared to Japanese women, while Thai women had more severe wrinkles in the lower halves of their faces compared to Chinese women.
Specifically, Caucasian females showed significant age-related wrinkle formation in the lower areas of the face, possibly due to sagging in the subzygomatic area.
This suggests that Caucasian females may be more susceptible to sagging in that particular area. Furthermore, the onset of wrinkles is delayed by approximately 10 years in Chinese women compared to French women, with the most noticeable difference occurring between the ages of 40 and 50.
Hormones
Testosterone
Testosterone plays a huge role in how our skin ages.
Collagen Production: Testosterone plays a role in stimulating collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structural support and elasticity to the skin. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to the formation of wrinkles and sagging skin. Adequate levels of testosterone can help promote collagen synthesis, potentially delaying the visible signs of aging.
Sebum Production: Testosterone influences sebum production, which is the oily substance that helps keep the skin moisturized. Sebum production tends to decrease with age, contributing to dryness and dullness in the skin. Higher levels of testosterone can help maintain optimal sebum production and prevent excessive dryness, giving the skin a more youthful appearance.
Skin Thickness: Testosterone affects the thickness of the skin. It contributes to the growth and maintenance of the epidermis (outermost layer of the skin) and dermis (middle layer of the skin). Thicker skin is generally associated with a smoother and more youthful appearance. Lower testosterone levels can lead to thinning of the skin, making it more susceptible to damage and wrinkles.
Wound Healing: Testosterone plays a role in the wound healing process. It promotes cell proliferation and collagen synthesis, which are essential for the repair of damaged skin. Adequate testosterone levels can help facilitate proper healing and reduce the likelihood of scarring.
Estrogen
Extrinsic Factors
Extrinsic factors, on the other hand, are external elements that impact our skin's health and accelerate the aging process. Unlike intrinsic factors (such as genetics and hormonal changes), extrinsic factors can be modified or controlled to some extent.These factors include:
Sun Exposure
The Sun
Photoaging: Chronic exposure to UV radiation from the sun causes a phenomenon known as photoaging. This type of aging is characterized by visible signs such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Sun exposure accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to decreased elasticity and firmness.
Wrinkles and Fine Lines: The sun's UV rays can damage the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, causing the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. These signs of aging are particularly prominent in areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and hands.
Hyperpigmentation: Sun exposure can also lead to the development of hyperpigmentation, which includes dark spots, age spots, and uneven skin tone. UV radiation stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, resulting in localized areas of increased pigmentation.
Dryness and Rough Texture: Overexposure to the sun can dehydrate the skin, leading to dryness and a rough texture. UV rays can disrupt the skin's barrier function, impairing its ability to retain moisture and leaving it feeling dry and rough to the touch.
Skin Cancer: Prolonged and unprotected sun exposure is a major risk factor for skin cancer. The harmful UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and the development of skin cancer over time.
Environmental Factors:
Air Pollution
Air Pollution: Environmental pollutants, such as particulate matter, smoke, and vehicle emissions, can damage the skin and accelerate aging. These pollutants generate free radicals that cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation.
Climate
Climate Factors: Extreme weather conditions, including cold temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, can strip the skin of moisture and disrupt its barrier function. This can result in dryness, redness, and a compromised skin barrier.
Solar Radiation
Lifestyle Choices:
Overprocessed, Overeating, and Poor nutrition
Nutrient Deficiency: Poor nutrition and a diet lacking in essential vitamins and minerals can contribute to skin aging. The lack of nutrients can lead to skin disorders and deficiencies that affect the overall health and appearance of the skin.
Inflammation: Processed foods often contain high levels of unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives. These ingredients can promote inflammation in the body, including the skin. Chronic inflammation can accelerate the aging process and lead to the development of wrinkles, fine lines, and skin dullness.
Glycation: A diet high in processed foods and excessive sugar consumption can result in glycation. Glycation is a process where sugar molecules bind to proteins like collagen, causing them to become stiff and less functional. This can lead to the loss of elasticity and the formation of wrinkles.
Accelerated Aging: Overeating, especially consuming excessive calories and unhealthy foods, can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Excess fat tissue can produce inflammatory molecules that accelerate the aging process, leading to various skin concerns such as sagging skin and the appearance of cellulite.
Impaired Skin Health: The consumption of processed foods that lack essential nutrients can negatively impact overall skin health. The skin may become dry, rough, and prone to various skin conditions due to the lack of nourishment.
Chronic Stress
Telomere Shortening: Chronic stress can accelerate cellular aging by causing the telomeres, the protective caps at the end of chromosomes, to shorten faster. Telomere shortening is associated with cellular aging and has been linked to various age-related conditions.
Inflammation: Stress triggers an inflammatory response in the body, leading to increased levels of pro-inflammatory molecules. Inflammation can disrupt the skin's barrier function, impair its ability to retain moisture, and contribute to oxidative damage, which can accelerate skin aging.
Collagen Breakdown: High levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone, can break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. Collagen provides structural support to the skin, and its degradation can lead to the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.
Skin Barrier Impairment: Stress can negatively affect the skin's permeability barrier function and disrupt its homeostasis. This can result in increased water loss from the skin, reduced protection against external aggressors, and compromised overall skin health.
DNA Damage: Prolonged stress can cause damage to DNA within skin cells. This damage can lead to impaired cell functions, decreased resilience to environmental stressors, and accelerated aging.
Lack of sleep
Smoking
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can have negative effects on the aging process of the skin. Here's how alcohol affects aging skin:
Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. Dehydrated skin appears dull, dry, and less supple, which can contribute to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Reduced Collagen and Elastin: Alcohol interferes with the production of collagen and elastin, proteins that are crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Reduced collagen and elastin levels can result in sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles.
Inflammation and Skin Damage: Alcohol consumption can trigger inflammation in the body, including the skin. Chronic inflammation can damage the skin's barrier function, disrupt its natural healing processes, and contribute to the breakdown of collagen, leading to premature aging.
Disruption of Antioxidant Defense: Alcohol impairs the skin's antioxidant defense system by reducing dermal carotenoid concentrations. Antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress and free radicals, which can contribute to skin aging.
Uneven Complexion and Rosacea: Alcohol can cause facial redness and flushing, especially in individuals with rosacea. It can also lead to the appearance of blood vessels on the skin, resulting in a blotchy and uneven complexion.
Heavy alcohol use (in this study heavy alcohol use was determined as >8 drinks a week)
To minimize the negative effects of alcohol on the skin, it is advisable to drink alcohol in moderation. Staying hydrated, practicing proper skincare, and adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can also help maintain healthier-looking skin.
What to Avoid and What to Do: Tips for Healthy, Youthful Skin
To improve your skin's condition and slow down the aging process, consider incorporating the following practices into your skincare routine:
Protect Yourself from the Sun:
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Seek shade, wear protective clothing, and use sunglasses to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
We reccomend our SPF skincare, which can be bought here. (Journee is tinted!)
Invest in Medical-Grade Skincare:
Medical-grade skincare products are specifically formulated with potent active ingredients that address specific skin concerns and deliver visible results. Look for products containing retinoids, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and peptides to nourish and rejuvenate your skin.
One of the best products shown to have results in as little as 6 days can be bought right here!
Consider Professional Consultation:
Schedule a consultation with a dermatologist or skincare professional who can assess your skin's condition and recommend personalized treatments and products that target your specific concerns. They may suggest treatments such as Ultherapy, a non-invasive procedure that uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten the skin.
Book a consultation with us here!
Adopt a Consistent Skincare Routine:
Cleanse, tone, moisturize, and protect. Establishing a consistent skincare routine tailored to your skin type and concerns is vital for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. Use gentle cleansers, hydrating serums, and moisturizers suitable for your skin's needs.
Book a consultation with us here to explore your skin needs, and help create a skincare routine that actually works for you.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished:
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Consume a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to provide essential nutrients for skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds support skin hydration and elasticity.
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Practice Stress Management:
Chronic stress can accelerate the aging process and lead to various skin issues. Incorporate stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation.
The Oasis was built for you. Our goal is to help you relax, release your stress, and finally prioritize yourself. Book a treatment with us today to help you relax and unwind!
Remember, improving your skin's health is a journey that requires commitment and patience. By understanding the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that contribute to skin aging and making conscious choices to protect and nurture your skin, you can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion that defies the passage of time.
Consult with a skincare professional to determine the most suitable treatments and products for your unique needs. Embrace the power of Ultherapy, medical-grade skincare, and expert guidance as you embark on this transformative journey towards rejuvenated, youthful skin.
Looking for some help to your AM and PM skincare routine? Download our skincare tracker guide! With links to products, AM and PM routine suggestions, and a skincare habit tracker.