Your Skin & Ageing

Genetic disposition can have an effect on how our skin appears to age at varying life stages, along with lifestyle factors of alcohol, diet, drugs, environmental pollutants, sun exposure, smoking and stress. Illness, medication and trauma can undoubtedly also have a large impact.

Skin has more resilience and strength in our youth as the cells multiply to replenish with vigour. As we age, body processes slow down, with less replacement cell growth and sebaceous gland secretion affecting suppleness and tone. Early signs commence with the appearance of slight line creases which eventually become larger (forming wrinkles) and the skin begins to sag. This is more noticeable on the face as facial skin tissue is far thinner and more sensitive than other body areas.

Mid 20’s to 30’s     Faint, small fine lines appear - usually around the eyes and mouth known as expression or laugh lines.

Mid 30’s to 40’s    The lines deepen and become more noticeable. Additional fine lines form around the nose and mouth and corners of the lips. Skin tone is softer and less taut.

Mid 40’s to 50’s    The lines deepen to wrinkles and the skin begins to sag. This is more noticeable on the neck as it has less fat cells and sebaceous glands. The skin appears drier, often with flakey patches and requires more hydration.

Mid 50’s to 60’s    The skin becomes drier, thinner and sags further due to the lack of elastin. Collagen production and sebaceous gland secretion slows further. Skin loses the ability to retain moisture and bone density may affect the underlying structure. 

Over 65   Noticeable structural changes appear and rejuvenating elastin and collagen production is virtually non-existent. Natural protection lowers, circulation is impaired, skin repair is slower and damage (age) spots are evident.