Part 2 : Aging Skin
Skin aging is an inevitable degenerative process caused by intrinsic and extrinsic factors that disrupt the functionality of the epidermis and dermis. Over time, cell turnover slows down in the epidermis, producing dryness and fine lines. In the dermis, collagen, elastin, lipids, proteins, and immune cells are damaged, resulting in a lack of epidermal support. This causes fine lines to deepen into wrinkles.
INTRINSIC AGING
CAUSES
Intrinsic aging, also known as chronological aging, is a naturally occurring internal process influenced by hormonal shifts, genetics, and decreases in metabolism that cause the progression of collagen degradation.
SYMPTOMS
- Redness and inflammation
- Temperature sensitivity
- Sunburns easily
- Blushing when hot, angry, consuming alcoholic beverages, exercising, or eating spicy foods
- Irritation to cosmetics
- Blotching
- Prone to breakouts
- Prone to rashes
- Thin, fragile, and/or healing skin
- Hormone production
- Genetics
- Decreased metabolism
EXTRINSIC AGING
Daily exposure to environmental elements such as UV light, smoke, and air pollution causes chemical reactions in the skin. Extrinsic aging, also known as free radical damage, accelerates premature aging by breaking down collagen and elastin fibers. Moreover, it also triggers the formation of free radicals, further damaging skin cells and DNA. Protecting the skin with diligent sun protection, antioxidant-rich skincare, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate the effects of environmental aging.
SYMPTOMS
- Wrinkles
- Scaly patches of rough skin
- Dark red or brown pigmentation on face, neck, chest, hands
- Increased vein visibility
- Collagen breakdown
- Loss of elasticity
CAUSES
- UV radiation (primary source of damage, responsible for up to 90% of visible photo-aging)
- Lifestyle factors (i.e., smoking, poor nutrition)
- Blue light exposure
BLUE LIGHT EXPOSURE
Blue light generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the skin, leading to oxidative stress and cellular damage. This oxidative stress degrades collagen and elastin fibers, diminishing skin elasticity and promoting the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, blue light can stimulate melanin production, exacerbating hyper-pigmentation. What’s more, blue light exposure at night causes disruptions to the circadian rhythm, which impacts the skin’s natural repair process. While more research is needed to understand the effects of blue light on skin aging fully, it underscores the importance of adopting protective measures, such as using blue light-blocking skincare products and minimizing screen time, to mitigate potential long-term consequences on skin health.
