We all want to look young and healthy for as long as possible. Yet many of us fall into the complacent trap of thinking of wrinkles and rough skin as “just part of aging.” But how many of us actually go the extra mile to take steps to preserve our skin and delay aging compensation? Here we explain the function of the skin, why it ages, and share some simple but effective techniques and habits to keep your skin looking fresh and youthful.
What is skin?
The skin is made up of millions and millions of microscopic cells and tissues. The largest organ in the human body, its main function is to protect the inside of your body and your internal organs from the many harmful elements and bacteria from the outside world. In addition to this, it contains the nerves that are responsible for our sense of touch and the ability to feel hot or cold, as well as the sweat glands responsible for cooling our bodies. The dermis layer of the skin is on the inside and contains the important working parts of the skin, while the outer layer is known as the epidermis and is the main protective barrier between the body and what is outside.
Why does skin age?
The reasons for skin aging are both genetic and environmental. As the body ages, it produces less collagen and other vital substances that are responsible for keeping skin supple, smooth, and elastic. Cell-damaging UV rays from the sun are the main environmental reason for skin ageing, and the effects of this differ according to skin tone (lighter skin is affected to a greater extent). The pull of gravity also plays a role in sagging skin, and repeated use of the skin for facial expressions and the rigors of daily life contribute to the wrinkling process.
These factors are beyond our control, but some other causes of skin aging are within our sphere of influence. Smoking contributes to the aging process by introducing harmful chemicals and free radicals to the skin, in addition to nicotine stains on your fingers. Heavy drinking also damages skin cells. Those who spend a lot of time in the sun or in tanning booths are also prone to rapid skin aging.
What can you do to keep your skin young and healthy?
Despite these factors, there are also many things you can do to prevent the aging process:
- Make sure you get plenty of vitamins and minerals in your diet. Whether in pill form or from food as nature intended, certain vitamins and minerals are absolutely essential to keeping your skin in good working order. These include vitamin C, which reduces free radical damage; Vitamin A necessary for the repair and regeneration of cells and the mineral Selenium that protects from the sun’s rays.
- Be mindful of your lifestyle – smoke if you want to, but be aware that it will age your skin faster than a non-smoker’s. Drinking in moderation is fine, but excessive alcohol consumption can lead to permanent skin cell damage, creating the rosy cheeks and nose often found in heavy drinkers.
- Take care of the sun- Do not spend too much time sunbathing, and if you are going to sunbathe, apply a suntan lotion or sunscreen. Most of all visible aging is the result of UV rays from the sun. It is also one of the main causes of skin cancer.
- Get enough sleep: Not only is it good for mood and alertness, the right amount of sleep is also necessary for skin cell regeneration. This ‘right amount’ will, of course, differ from person to person, but we all know when we’re getting enough sleep and when we feel exhausted.
- Don’t worry, be happy: Constant frowning and stress can lead to permanent wrinkles and worry lines.
- Get fit: Regular exercise improves blood circulation to the skin and improves the body’s ability to regenerate cells and repair damage.
- Use anti-aging products – Wrinkle creams, firming lotions, vitamin-enriched moisturizers, and other anti-aging products can help slow the aging process when used as part of a care regimen for sensitive skin.
Science has yet to invent a skin transplant, so until that day it’s a good idea to take good care of your skin, as it’s yours for life. While treatments like Botox can be used to temporarily reverse the appearance of aging skin, they are not a substitute for skin care as your own.
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