AGEING SKIN
HOW DOES AGEING SKIN ?
Both internal and external factors are at play when it comes to how skin ages – genetics play one part, and lifestyle plays another.
Internally, as we age, skin loses natural compounds like collagen and elastin which are the building blocks of strong, supple skin. For women, the skin is also affected by drops in oestrogen during perimenopause and menopause.
External factors that affect how our skin ages are exposure to UV rays, smoking, pollution, poor diet, and lack of exercise. These factors accelerate ageing of the skin by altering cell DNA, blood supply, and the quality of the blood supply (in terms of the levels of toxins, oxygen, and nutrients in the blood).
Book a consultation to see how we could help you reverse the ageing process or continue reading below to understand more about ageing skin and associated concerns and treatments we offer here at INIYA Clinic.
Wrinkles and Sagging Skin
Collagen gives skin its strength and structure and elastin gives it its ability to stretch, then recoil back into shape.
As collagen and elastin production declines with age, skin becomes weaker and thinner, and loses its ability to return to its natural shape after movement. This causes the skin to wrinkle from repeated movements over time, and loss of definition in the skin’s contours and skin starts to sag.
UV rays, smoking, and other free radicals found in other pollution cause damage to the skin cells, and break down collagen faster, exacerbating the natural ageing process.
Common areas for wrinkles: Forehead lines, crow’s feet, perioral lines (sometimes called “smokers” lines), naso-labial folds (smile lines), marionette lines (mouth to chin), and horizontal lines on the neck.
Common areas for sagging skin: Jowls, under eye area, cheeks, jawline, and neck.
Treatment options can treat current problem areas, as well as prevent further issues by promoting collagen production and reducing movement in the face. The most appropriate treatment options for you will be discussed at your consultation.
Volume Loss
As well as experiencing sagging skin from the loss of collagen and elastin, over time we also lose subcutaneous fat from the face, which causes the skin to appear sunken into the hollows of our skull and around the jawline.
Common areas: Cheeks, temples, jawline, mouth, and lips.
Treatments focus on replacing lost volume and stimulating collagen production. The most appropriate treatment options for you will be discussed at consultation.
Dull Skin
Ageing and perimenopause/menopause cause oestrogen levels to drop and a reduction in sebum production (the skin’s natural oil) – which can result in dry skin and a dull complexion from the build-up of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface.
A poor (or poor quality) blood supply can also lead to a dull complexion because essential nutrients and oxygen aren’t being delivered to the skin cells. Again this exacerbates natural ageing.
Treatments focus on inducing collagen production, exfoliation, and the maintenance of an effective skincare regime. The most appropriate treatment options for you will be discussed at your consultation.
Unwanted Facial Hair
Facial hair on women can cause issues with confidence and self-esteem.
Drops in oestrogen levels during perimenopause/menopause, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), and other hormonal imbalances can cause unwanted hair growth on the face in women.
Laser hair removal is an effective and safe treatment option for long-lasting hair removal on the face and body.
A consultation with one of our doctors or skin and laser therapists is required before starting treatment.
Find out more about the procedure and our treatment packages below.
Treatment: Laser hair removal.
Hyperpigmentation (“age spots”)
Over time, skin that has been exposed to the sun is likely to develop hyperpigmentation caused by UV rays. These are sometimes called “age spots” or “liver spots” (but actually have nothing to do with liver function).
For more information on other types of hyperpigmentation (such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and their treatment, go to our section on hyperpigmentation. (link to separate hyperpigmentation section)
If you are concerned about areas of hyperpigmentation, you can book a consultation with one of our medical practitioners who will assess you in person, discuss your concerns, and advise on the most appropriate treatment for your needs. Recommended treatments will depend on the cause and severity of your condition.