Wrinkles!
looka_production_67632597 • May 31, 2024
Why We Get Wrinkles
Wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process and result from a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Here's an overview of why we get wrinkles:
Intrinsic Aging
Intrinsic aging is the natural aging process that happens over time regardless of external factors. Key contributors include:
- Reduced Collagen and Elastin: As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity. This leads to sagging and the formation of wrinkles.
- Decreased Cell Turnover: Skin cells don't renew as quickly as they do when we are younger, causing the skin to become thinner and less resilient.
- Loss of Fat and Bone Density: The underlying fat layers and bone structure diminish, leading to a loss of support for the skin, which contributes to sagging and wrinkle formation.
Extrinsic Aging
Extrinsic aging is influenced by external environmental factors. Major contributors include:
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a leading cause of wrinkles. It breaks down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to premature aging known as photoaging.
- Smoking: Smoking accelerates aging by narrowing blood vessels in the skin and depleting it of oxygen and nutrients. It also damages collagen and elastin.
- Repeated Facial Expressions: Over time, facial movements such as squinting or smiling can create permanent lines and wrinkles. Each time we use a facial muscle, a groove forms beneath the skin's surface.
- Poor Diet and Hydration: Lack of essential nutrients and inadequate hydration can weaken skin's structure and function, making it more prone to wrinkles.
- Stress and Lack of Sleep: Chronic stress and insufficient sleep can accelerate aging by impacting hormone levels and reducing the skin's ability to repair itself.
Prevention and Mitigation
While aging is inevitable, certain practices can help mitigate wrinkle formation:
- Sun Protection: Regular use of sunscreen can protect skin from harmful UV rays.
- Healthy Lifestyle: A diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking can support skin health.
- Skincare Routine: Using moisturizers, retinoids, and products with hyaluronic acid can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- Stress Management: Practices like mindfulness and adequate sleep help maintain overall skin health.
Understanding the mechanisms behind wrinkle formation can help in making informed choices about skincare and lifestyle, potentially slowing down the visible signs of aging.
Unlocking the Fountain of Youth: The Anti-Aging Benefits of Topical Vitamin A
Does drinking water help slow down the ageing process? A study has just been published (Dmitrieva, 2023), that tested the hypothesis that optimal hydration may slow down the ageing process in humans. The study measured serum sodium levels. Participants that had high levels of serum sodium had a greater risk of premature ageing and developing chronic diseases. If you have higher than normal serum sodium levels, it may be a sign of dehydration caused by not drinking enough, diarrhoea or from certain medications like diuretics (water tablets). Our bodies are made up of about 50% - 80% of water, which we need for digestion, to absorb vital nutrients, get rid of waste products and help regulate our body temperature. It also helps our skin, hair and nails!! So how much should we drink? It is recommended that men drink about 10 cups (2.5 Litres) a day and women 8 cups (2 Litres), and a little more if pregnant or breastfeeding. So, what counts as water? Does tea, coffee and soft drinks count? Well, yes they do!! I know many people do not like the taste of water, so this will be good news for you. I actually don’t mind water, but I also enjoy my morning black coffee and a soft drink every now and then.. Obviously we do not want to drink all of our calories, which are found in high sugar soft drinks and we also need to be mindful of our teeth and decay. But there are a lot of sugar free alternatives available. I read a great article (Soong, 2022), that talks about this topic and discusses what counts for water in our diets. Fruits, vegetables, smoothies, soups etc, all help with our hydration. That really doesn’t sound too hard at all. I think that consuming our recommended water intake is definitely achievable and in doing so, you may be slowing down the ageing process. References: Dmitrieva N. I., Gagarin A., Liu D., Wu C. O., Boehm O. (January 2023).Middle-age high normal serum sodium as a risk factor for accelerated biological ageing, chronic diseases,and premature mortality. EBiomedicine . https://doi.org/0457208690/j.ebiom.0457208690 Soong, J. (March, 2022). What counts as water? Stay hydrated and healthy. WebMD . https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/healthy-beverages
When I started in the industry, it was amazing how many people criticized my choice. Instead of “congratulations”, “that's great”, the most common response was “I believe in aging gracefully”. In this context it was definitely said with a negative and backhanded undertone. I thought this was an interesting comment considering they got their hair done every 6-8 weeks, bought the latest fashion, wore makeup and took some pride in their appearance. Why is getting cosmetic injectables and looking after your skin any different? The stigma has changed over the years and cosmetic injectables have become a sought after treatment to combat the signs of aging. I had a look at what people thought aging gracefully meant, and here are some of those responses: “Aging gracefully means having an adventurous spirit, a playful and positive attitude, a grateful heart, and commitment to self-care. This leads to living and loving life without regrets!” (2021, Aging Gracefully TV) “To age gracefully means to pay attention to what makes you feel best.” (2022, Homewatch Caregivers) I totally agree! I love looking after my skin (and have since I was young) and enjoy researching all things antiaging. Aging gracefully to me is growing older without being old, continually pursuing a healthy mind, body and spirit.
