SKIN ACADEMY

Skin Conditions Explained

AGEING, PREVENTION & TREATMENT

Whilst the signs of ageing appear on the surface, skin ageing takes place in every layer of the skin. Understanding the skin’s structure and ageing process as well as the signs of ageing is key to informing your choices about treatment and care.

THE SKIN'S NATURAL AGEING PROCES

The Epidermis

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and acts as a barrier to keep moisture in and protect your body from external toxins and bacteria. New skin cells form at the innermost layer and migrate up towards the surface of the skin where they die and are shed off.
As skin ages its cell turnover slows, as does its production of sebum and hyaluronic acid which are vital for the skin’s ability to retain moisture. The skin then becomes drier and rougher, and as a result, fine lines and wrinkles appear. Over time the epidermis also becomes more sensitive to the sun’s rays. The skin also becomes less efficient at healing itself, and a reduced immune function can lead to an increase in skin infections together with slower wound healing.

The Dermis

The dermal layers are the firm and elastic middle layer of the skin. Its structure mainly consists of collagen, elastin and connective tissues, and it is rich in blood vessels. From the age of 25 onwards, the skin’s collagen levels decrease by roughly 1% each year. This is paired with a decline in functional elastin and leads to a compromised structure, making fine lines and wrinkles more likely.A weaker structure also makes the skin more prone to damage and broken capillaries, leading to reduced micro-circulation. The skin is then less efficient at delivering nutrition and oxygen to the surface, which leads to a decrease in the radiance enjoyed by youthful skin.

Sub-dermal Layers

The innermost layers are responsible for storing energy whilst padding and insulating the body. Here the most notable changes are the reduction in the size and number of lipid-storing cells. This results in sagging skin and a loss of volume, leading to deep wrinkles and hollow temples and cheeks.

INTRINSIC VS. EXTRINSIC AGEING

We are all destined to experience skin ageing. Skin ageing is a degenerative process caused by intrinsic (chronological) and extrinsic (environmental) ageing. These factors are something most of us can relate to, and contribute to the visible signs of skin ageing:
- A loss of skin firmness and elasticity
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage and pigmentation
- Irregular pigmentation and texture
- Large pores
- Dry skin
- Loss of facial volume

Intrinsic Ageing

Unfortunately, intrinsic ageing is something we have little control over. This is because it is a natural process, determined by internal factors and is programmed by our genes.

Extrinsic Ageing

Extrinsic ageing, also known as photo-ageing, is caused by external factors that we are regularly exposed to and can be prevented or minimised. External elements such as sunlight, pollution, nutritional intake, smoking, stress and lack of sleep are among the most common factors. The single biggest culprit is the sun!

What causes these signs of ageing? 

What causes age spots?
Skin ageing is something we will all suffer with as we grow old. It causes the surface layers of our skin (known as the epidermis) to thin, and the number of melanocytes (the pigment producing cells) to decrease. If we have some areas of the skin that are more exposed to the sun, the remaining melanocytes in these areas will increase in size. This leads to our skin appearing thinner and more pale, with large pigmented areas known as age spots, lentigos or liver spots.

What causes skin dryness?
The production of oil slows down, which can cause our skin to become dry, and also our blood vessels become more fragile, which is why we have an increased chance of bruising.What causes sunken eyes and a ‘skeletal’ appearance?We will also lose fat under the skin, which becomes evident in areas such as the cheeks, temples, chin, nose and eyes. This is the basis for a more ‘skeletal’ appearance with a loosened skin and sunken eyes.

What causes fine lines and wrinkles?
Collagen and elastin are the fibres that give our skin its structure and the breakdown of these leads to lines, wrinkles and a loss of elasticity resulting in skin sagging.It’s important to remember that the sun’s harmful rays are the culprit behind many of our skin ageing changes and although these effects can not be completely undone, with the correct skin care and advanced clinical treatments, they can be significantly repaired. Your skin remembers every hour of sun it’s been exposed to, and although the effects don’t show whilst we are young, it’s extremely important to protect your skin throughout your whole life.

10 WAYS TO PREVENT PREMATURE AGEING

1. Protect your skin from the sun every day.
Whether spending a day at the beach or running errands, sun protection is essential. You can protect your skin by seeking shade, covering up with sun-protective clothing ~ such as a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection ~ and using sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, SPF 30 (or higher), and water-resistant. You should apply sunscreen every day to all skin that is not covered by clothing. For more effective protection, look for clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) label.

2. Apply self-tanner rather than get a tan.
Every time you get a tan, you prematurely age your skin. This holds true if you get a tan from the sun, a tanning bed, or other indoor tanning equipment. All emit harmful UV rays that accelerate how quickly your skin ages.

3. If you smoke, stop.
Smoking greatly speeds up how quickly skin ages. It causes wrinkles and a dull, sallow complexion.

4. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
Findings from a few studies suggest that eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may help prevent damage that leads to premature skin aging. Findings from research studies also suggest that a diet containing lots of sugar or other refined carbohydrates can accelerate aging.

5. Less alcohol, more water. 
Alcohol is rough on the skin. It dehydrates the skin, and in time, damages the skin. This can make us look older.

6. Exercise most days of the week.
Findings from a few studies suggest that moderate exercise can improve circulation and boost the immune system. This, in turn, may give the skin a more-youthful appearance.

7. Cleanse your skin gently.
Scrubbing your skin clean can irritate your skin. Irritating your skin accelerates skin ageing. Gentle washing helps to remove pollution, makeup, and other substances without irritating your skin.Wash your face twice a day and after sweating heavily.

8. Wash your face twice a day and after sweating heavily. 
Perspiration, especially when wearing a hat or helmet, irritates the skin, so you want to wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.Apply a facial moisturiser every day. Moisturiser traps water in our skin, giving it a more youthful appearance.

9. Moisturiser is your friend ~ Regardless of your skin-type.
Moisturiser traps water in our skin, giving it a more youthful appearance.

10. Medical Grade Skincare.
Also known as cosmeceutical skincare, medical-grade skincare is formulated to target specific skincare concerns such as acne, sun damage, and premature ageing — but on a deeper and more effective level than over-the-counter-products. Medical-grade skincare provides medicinal and cosmetic benefits that have a lasting effect on the deeper dermal layers of the skin. 

START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY

ANTI-AGEING TREATMENT PLAN

Understanding your skin is the first step to a fully developed skincare routine. Thanks to our trained team of clinical experts, we have specifically designed skincare regime guides to cater to your concern. Whether you want to start slow with a 2 step routine, or are wanting immediate results that last - Our tailored treatment plans will help you kick-start your journey to radiant, youthful skin.

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As a professionally dispensed skincare platform, we offer clinical-grade concentrations of Vitamin A which is ONLY available through trained skincare providers. New patients will be required to do a single sign-up to our prescription portal so that access can be granted to purchase AlumierMD Skincare.