As we get older the skin tends to display some visible signs of ageing:
· It can appear fragile and thinner.
· Pigmented areas or age spots may be more visible.
· Fine lines and wrinkles can appear.
· Visual appearances can be dull and lifeless.
· Texture can be poor.
What causes skin to age?
Let's remember that it’s normal to age, in fact it is a blessing denied to many.
Skin, like every other part of the human body, is subject to the normal ageing process. We don’t yet know how to stop this. The human body is dependent on cell life. Some cells have a finite life span - like nerve cells in the brain, although these live for a long time they do eventually die and are not replaced. Other cells such as skin cells don't live for very long so need to be constantly replaced. However, as we get older this process naturally slows down, this is completely dependent on each person’s individual DNA. This is the genetic part of aging that we can do very little about.
We also know that some external factors cause damage to skin cells, further inhibiting their ability to divide and replicate – in fact enhancing the natural ageing process.
External factors
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- UV Exposure
- Stress
How can we prevent it?
Well, at present we cannot do anything to prevent the genetic cause of ageing. However, we can remove some of the influencing external factors.
The use of broad spectrum sunscreen of factor 30 or above plays a huge part in preventing ageing due to UV exposure.
Lifestyle factors like avoiding smoking and alcohol can help slow down the skin ageing process.
What can be done?
Fortunately, if you didn’t get the prevention memo, there is now a lot that can be done to treat ageing skin.
SKIN CARE
A good skin care routine is fundamental to good skin health. The two most important aspects of skin care are a good retinol and SPF. (We go into more details about these products in another blog) Speak to your skincare specialist and get advice about what would suit your skin and budget. Our favourite brands at the moment are Image Skin Care UK, Obagi UK, SkinCeuticals and AllSKIN Med.
FACIALS
A regular facial really helps maintain your skin, it's also a good opportunity for your therapist to review and assess your skin and tweak your treatment plan.
RADIOFREQUENCY TREATMENTS
Radiofrequency Treatments (RF) are an excellent way of repairing damaged ageing skin. We love the Endymed Intensif treatment which uses a combination of micro needling and heat to stimulate collagen and speed up cell replication. As we age, collagen production slows.
INJECTABLES
Injectable products such as dermal fillers have come a long way since they first appeared in the early 1980’s. Today's dermal filler can be used to hydrate, lift, and tighten, as well as replace loss volume and correct facial asymmetry. Administered in the correct environment these procedures are very safe and effective. We would always recommend at consultation prior to treatment and only have treatment with a Medical Professional in a clinical environment.
SURGERY
Once the preserve of the rich and famous, surgery is now much more accessible. A good surgeon can produce beautiful, natural results. But, as with injectables, choose your surgeon carefully. We high recommed Mr Nick Rhodes, Mr V Karri Mr M Riaz. Or see BAAPS for full list of surgeons.
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