Both internal and external factors affect the appearance of our skin over time. Some of these variables we have more control over and there are good preventative options. The most obvious examples are smoking cessation and use of sunscreens. Solar aging and the presence of environmental oxidants take a big toll on our skin over the years. There are also genetic factors as well as natural aging changes that affect our skin appearance that we don’t have control over.
Around 30 years of age, we start to produce less collagen and elastin in the dermal layer. These are the main components of skin thickness and strength. This is also the skin layer most responsible for maintaining skin hydration. In addition to less production, there is also increased breakdown of collagen and elastin. Loss of these components lead to the appearance of sagging, wrinkles and dryness. The skin becomes less “springy” and looks less youthful (solar elastosis). Lines of facial expression become more prominent, deepen and become more “set” over time.
Sun exposure (UV light) also results in stimulation of melanocytes which produce melanin. This is what produces the brownish coloration with tanning. Variable numbers of melanocytes and melanin production is what accounts for variation in skin coloration in different ethnic groups. As melanocytes and other skin cells age, they start to become less active (senescence). They start communicating from cell-to-cell inn different ways. It is felt that this results in variation in pigment production and the presence of light and “age spots”.
At Contour You, we have a wide range of products and devices to help reverse many of these aging changes and reactivate helpful cellular activity. Call us for your free consultation.
