How to Address the 3 Signs of Aging

We all ask ourselves at some point or another, how can we minimize the effects of aging? Our skin is a marker of our vitality, health, and youth—yet we often overlook it. Although some things are inherited, other factors may be external. Truth is we overlook our skin’s vital role in our protection and that it is indeed an organ, yes I said an ORGAN, the largest organ we have. Since our skin is so resilient and protective we tend to forget how vulnerable and sensitive it can be, and sometimes forget the attention it needs. Here are the 3 things that happen to our skin as we age and what we can do to help.

1) Elastin breakdown: As we age, natural connective fibers called elastin that are responsible for keeping our skin tight, begin to breakdown. These elastins are proteins found in the connective tissue that causes our skin to snap back to its original form after we smile or frown. You can minimize the effects of elastin breakdown by limiting your exposure to the sun’s UV rays, which damages elastin fibers.

The Solution: Cover up while in the sun when you can, and slap on some broad spectrum SPF 30+ to prevent elastin breakdown.

2) Loss of fat and bone: Beginning in our late twenties, we begin to lose up to a teaspoon of fat and volume in our faces every year, which may cause puckers and fine wrinkles. Good nutrition, exercise, and quitting smoking can help temper fat and volume loss. However, most fat and volume loss occurs naturally with age.

The Solution: Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport) and dermal fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, Perlane, and Sculptra Aesthetic) can help diminish the appearance of wrinkles and restore youthful volume. Consult your Dermatologist or skin care specialist for what may best fit your needs.

3) Loss of oil glands: Dry skin can develop due to the loss of oil glands.

The Solution: Keep skin hydrated from the inside out by maintaining a healthy diet high in Vitamin A (from carrots, sweet potatoes, and paprika); Antioxidants, Omega 3 and Omega 6; avoiding cigarette use, using a good quality moisturizer; avoid harsh soaps that contain phthalates, parabens, and sulfates, and minimize bathing in hot water.

A check up with your Dermatologist for more suggestions and preventative advice for your individual skin type is recommended. Although we have busy schedules and a million things running through our minds, keep these little tips in mind next time you get a flash forward of aging. Who knows—you may delay a wrinkle or two in time.