Prevent aging skin: Why does skin age?

Up to 80% of visible skin aging is due to UV radiation and sun damage. UVA rays, in particular, can damage the collagen fibers in our skin, which causes the skin to lose elasticity and age prematurely. Exposure to UV rays can also cause wrinkles and age spots. That is why it is important to practice sun protection at all times – because while your tan will disappear, you can’t really undo the damage caused by sun exposure.

Neglecting skincare or using the wrong skincare products can lead to premature signs of skin aging. It is important to take care of your skin with well-balanced products that work for your skin type. Face creams and lotions hydrate and provide the skin with anti-aging ingredients that help to prevent and reduce visible signs of aging.

Smoking compromises blood flow and inhibits the cell renewal process. Furthermore, cigarette smoking produces large amounts of free radicals, which lead to oxidative stress and premature skin aging.

Young skin produces plenty of hyaluronic acid and collagen on its own, but production slows down as we get older, and the skin loses volume, elasticity and firmness. Eventually, this will lead to wrinkles. Dry skin develops wrinkles even earlier than other skin types. You can, however, slow the natural signs of aging by combining a healthy lifestyle with the right skincare.

During and after menopause, capillary blood flow decreases, the skin becomes thinner and appears dull and pale.

We need facial expressions to convey feelings and emotions, but they are also responsible for the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. In the sensitive eye area, signs of aging show in the form of crow’s feet or frown lines between the brows. The nasolabial folds between mouth and nose become deeper and more visible. Fine wrinkles appear on the forehead and in the area of neck and décolleté.

UV radiation and excess melanin production lead to an accumulation of lipofuscin, the pigment responsible for age spots on the skin. As we age, the mechanisms that clear out waste products break down, the pigments build up and permanent brown spots (so-called ‘age spots‘) appear.

Between the ages of 20 and 30, our cell metabolism begins to slow down and the skin loses its elasticity. On top of that, our sebum glands produce less oil and the skin gradually loses its ability to bind water, which leads to dryness and fine lines and wrinkles.

Collagen plays an important role in skin aging, because it is a major component of the connective tissue and gives the skin its strength and youthful appearance. However, collagen production begins to decline in our 20s and 30s and continues to decrease as we age, resulting in loss of skin elasticity, deep wrinkles and sagging skin.

To prevent premature skin aging, it is essential to understand the importance of daily sun protection and avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning beds. Even with sunscreen, dermatologists recommend to avoid exposure to the midday sun or wear a broad-brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing. And remember – you can still get a tan even when you are in the shade.

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is the key to beautiful, healthy skin. Antioxidant-rich foods that fight free radicals are especially helpful for preventing aging skin. Antioxidants are most abundant in certain fruits and vegetables, fish and wholegrains. Vitamins, minerals and trace elements also help to keep your body and skin healthy and fight the signs of aging. And always remember to drink plenty of water!

Smoking narrows the blood vessels, which inhibits blood flow and decreases the amount of oxygen and nutrients your skin receives. This leads to premature signs of aging and wrinkles.

Regular physical activity keeps your body in shape, improves circulation, increases blood flow and helps to reduce stress. And it results in a rosy and radiant complexion!

The best way to help your body regenerate is by getting enough sleep and reducing stress. Stress can play a big part in your skin’s overall health and appearance and may result in irritation and wrinkles.