All about aging

The basics of skin aging

Aging is a natural, inevitable process we all go through, inside and out. Skin aging, specifically, is a complex process marked by fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin—resulting from an equally complex combination of factors, including genetics, the environment, and your lifestyle.

It seems like a broad and overwhelming topic—especially if you’re interested in learning more about anti-aging skin care—but if we break it down to the fundamentals, you’ll be well on learning how to care for your skin proactively and reactively.

Speaking of the basics, it’s best to start by identifying and tackling the two types of skin aging: intrinsic and extrinsic.

Intrinsic vs. extrinsic aging

Intrinsic aging, also known as chronological or natural aging, is the process of growing older over time. It’s biological, and it happens to everyone. Hormonal changes influence this type of aging—in particular, the decline in collagen and hormone production (like estrogen and androgen), which leads to dry, wrinkled, and thin skin.

Extrinsic aging, also known as photoaging, is caused by the harmful effects of long-term ultraviolet (UV) exposure (a.k.a. the sun, among others). The appearance of rough, dry, wrinkled, and dyspigmented skin—such as solar lentigines (commonly known as age spots or sunspots)—results from this type of aging.

Now, we can parse aging further to its most common and visible symptoms.

Fine lines and wrinkles

As you age, the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers causes furrows to form and deepen on the face, which you often see on the forehead and around the eyes—hence, fine lines and wrinkles.

Age spots

Age spots, also known as liver spots or sun spots, are flat, brown spots that form on your skin due to excessive sun exposure over time. As you age and expose your skin to the sun’s UV rays more often, it becomes more susceptible to damage and discoloration—especially if you have fair skin or spend a lot of time outdoors without sunscreen.

Sagging skin

Collagen is the main structural protein in the skin, providing it with the tensile strength it needs to keep your complexion firm. Over time, though, these fibers start to break down and no longer hold your skin as firmly as they did before—which results in the skin losing its firmness and bounce, causing it to sag or droop.

Anti-aging treatments

Topical treatments

Skincare that contains:

• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)
• Niacinamide
• Azelaic acid
• Tranexamic acid
• Retinoids
• Peptides

—are the most common ingredients you’ll find in effective anti-aging skincare: antioxidants reduce the rate collagen breaks down by neutralizing free radicals, and cell regulators (like retinoids and peptides) stimulate collagen production.

In-clinic treatments

In-clinic treatments like:

• Chemical peels
• Laser therapy
• Radiofrequency therapy
• Botox or wrinkle relaxers
• Mesotherapy
• Non-surgical and surgical face lifts

—and combining them with topical medications can improve the efficacy of slowing down the visible signs of aging, depending on your specific concerns.