Ever wondered why our skin goes through all these changes as we age? At some point, most of us have. Usually after a frantic moment of panic as we notice the first fine line creeping in.
If you’re here as a result of one of these frantic moments, then be assured that there’s nothing to worry about.
The skin starts biologically ageing in women at age 25 – 30. It’s completely natural and also easy to support and treat, by following a positive ageing lifestyle (aka a mix of nutrition, sleep, exercise, skin care)!
So what happens to our skin?
Everyone ages differently, our genetics and exposure to environmental aggressors such as sunlight, stress and air pollution can all accelerate the rate at which our skin ages.
Skin ageing occurs when the elastin and collagen structures supporting our skin naturally decline, meaning it becomes less flexible, firm and elastic. Additionally, sebum production decreases, making us much more susceptible to dryness, which can exacerbate the look of wrinkles.
We also get a natural loss of facial (subcutaneous fat) as we age. This is a natural occurrence and partly because of hormonal changes, but it’s also down to the usual culprit of skin ageing, sun exposure.
Additionally, the regenerative process in our skin decreases, which causes cells not to shed as easily. This makes our skin’s texture rougher and more susceptible to environmental damage, which makes sun protection even more important.
What does our skin need?
Maintaining your skin should not be put down to just products, a healthy lifestyle is needed to really keep your skin in tip-top condition.
A good skin care routine doesn’t have to be complex to be effective, you don’t need to spend enormous amounts on the next ‘wonder creams’, with multiple iterations for different segments of your face. But we do suggest some sort of routine, see ‘skin care for over 40s’ for our recommended products.
Skincare is only a small aspect of overall skin health, with nutrition, exercise and sleep being just as important.
Keeping a well-balanced diet with plenty of colourful fruit and veg, while sticking to whole grains for your carb source and reducing sugars and processed foods will revitalise your skin and ensure your complexion is radiant.
Exercise increases blood flow, which helps nourish skin cells. Working out has the added benefit of reducing stress levels, which is another fantastic benefit for our skin.
Sleep is another element which is essential for skin health. When you sleep the skin’s natural renewal and healing process kicks in, meaning increased collagen production and while in deeper levels of sleep growth hormone levels rise which repairs damaged cells.
That’s all there is to it, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with an effective skin care regime will prevent premature ageing and keep your complexion glowing.
What works for you to keep your skin looking it’s best? Let us know in the comments.
