Lots of clients ask me why skin ageing occurs and whether it can be reversed. The truth is, there are lots of factors that have an influence on ageing skin and these will vary person to person to a degree. There are some signs of ageing that can be reversed with treatments and skincare but ultimately, we can’t stop the clock.
Growing old is a privilege not everyone gets to experience but it can go hand in hand with anxiety about ageing, our appearance and feeling ‘old’. When it comes to anti-ageing treatments and skincare, for me it’s all about enhancing what we have, not trying to become someone we’re not. We’ve all seen the celebs who have had TOO much work, and they don’t usually look younger, just less themselves.
Why does skin age?
There are two types of factors that affect skin ageing – what happens in our bodies and genetics vs environmental and lifestyle influences. These are the most common causes of ageing skin:
- Reduced collagen and elastin production as we get older, resulting in fine lines and skin that is more prone to sagging
- Less hydration in the skin, due to oil production reducing as we get older
- Reduced blood flow to the skin & slower cell turnover can lead to skin appearing duller and less glowy as we age
- UV exposure is a biggy when it comes to ageing skin because sun damage is a major cause of wrinkles and pigmentation. The number one thing you can do to avoid ageing skin is to use a very good SPF from a young age – and it’s never too late to be better at it!
- Pollution in the atmosphere can cause oxidative stress and inflammation in your skin
- Smoking and a poor diet can have a huge impact on your skin, particularly as you age, because as you get older your body slows down and can’t recover as quickly. This means toxins build up more easily, collagen breaks down faster, and your skin struggles to repair itself and stay hydrated. Over time, this can lead to dullness, wrinkles, uneven tone, and a loss of elasticity.
Can the signs of ageing skin be reversed?
Some of the signs of ageing skin can be improved but not reversed. The most common concerns for those who are getting older tend to be wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin which has lost its elasticity. Through a combination of quality skincare, professional treatments and lifestyle adjustments, it is possible to improve some of these signs. These are some suggestions but as always, a tailored skincare treatment plan is the best way to do what’s right for your skin:
- Using high quality SPF every day is the more effective way to prevent further ageing
- Investing in skincare containing retinoids and antioxidants can help to boost collagen production and brighten your skin
- Alumier products containing peptides such as the Ultimate Boost Serum can help to improve your skin from the inside out helping to create firmer, plumper skin that’s hydrated
- Chemical peels can help to exfoliate and refresh your skin’s texture, making it appear more youthful
- Laser treatments to target pigmentation on the face and hands can help reduce the appearance of age spots
- Enjoying a diet rich in antioxidants and omega 3 will support your skin to look its best
- Keeping well hydrated goes without saying, the more hydrated you are, the more hydrated your skin will be
- Regular exercise can help improve your circulation and that increased blood flow will help increase cell turnover and improve your glow
One thing I haven’t included on the list is injectables and other aesthetics treatments which can also help reduce the signs of ageing. Whilst these treatments can help I do want to warn you to be careful out there – it’s an unregulated industry that can have catastrophic consequences if you use someone who isn’t qualified and experienced.
Conclusion
Your skin ageing is part of a natural process but I know that the effects of this can affect your confidence. With the right combination of skincare, treatments and a healthy lifestyle, you can delay or minimise the effects of ageing on your skin.
Just because we can’t turn back the clock doesn’t mean we can’t strive for healthier, firmer, smoother looking skin so we feel radiant as the years go by.
If you have any questions about anything in this blog, or if you’d like to book a skin consultation to discuss a tailored treatment plan, please get in touch with me here.
