What Causes Skin Ageing and How You Can Slow It Down

As we age, our skin begins to reveal the passage of time—lines appear, elasticity fades, and that youthful glow starts to diminish. But why does this happen, and what can be done to preserve the skin’s youthful qualities? The science of skin ageing involves a complex mix of natural processes and external factors that affect everyone differently. Understanding how these changes occur and the steps you can take to manage them can help you maintain healthy, radiant skin for longer.

At SkinCision by Allen Rezai MD, we frequently see clients seeking proactive solutions to keep their skin looking its best. Many are exploring advanced treatments like PRP Therapy, Profhilo injections, dermal fillers, and anti-wrinkle injections. These therapies, combined with a tailored skincare routine, can significantly impact the visible signs of ageing. In this blog, we’ll break down what happens to your skin as it ages and discuss strategies for protecting and rejuvenating your complexion.

What Happens When Skin Ages?

Skin ageing is driven by two primary processes: intrinsic (natural) ageing and extrinsic (external) ageing. Both contribute to the changes we see in our skin over time, but each works in different ways.

Natural Ageing (Intrinsic)

Natural ageing, also known as intrinsic ageing, is a biological process largely determined by genetics. While it’s something none of us can escape, understanding how it works can help you take steps to slow it down. Intrinsic ageing usually begins in your mid-20s, but its effects may not become noticeable until later in life. Some key changes that occur as part of natural ageing include:

• Loss of Collagen: Collagen is a protein that gives skin its firmness. As you age, your body produces less collagen, leading to thinner skin that is more prone to lines and wrinkles.
• Decreased Elasticity: Elastin, which allows the skin to stretch and bounce back, also diminishes over time. This results in sagging skin and a loss of its tight, youthful appearance.
• Slower Cell Turnover: With age, the skin’s ability to repair and regenerate slows down, leading to a buildup of dead skin cells, making the complexion look dull and uneven.
• Reduced Hydration: As the body ages, it produces less sebum (oil), which keeps the skin moisturised. This can lead to dryness and an increase in fine lines.

Though intrinsic ageing is inevitable, there are ways to address its effects through proper skincare and treatments designed to stimulate collagen production and improve skin hydration.

External Ageing (Extrinsic)

External or extrinsic ageing is largely influenced by lifestyle choices and environmental factors. Unlike natural ageing, extrinsic ageing is preventable, or at least manageable, with the right approach. Common external factors that contribute to skin ageing include:

• Sun Exposure: The sun’s UV rays are the number one cause of premature skin ageing, often referred to as photoageing. Prolonged sun exposure damages collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven skin tone.
• Pollution: Environmental pollutants, especially in urban areas, accelerate skin damage by causing oxidative stress. This leads to dullness, inflammation, and a breakdown of the skin’s structure.
• Smoking: Smoking introduces toxins into the body that damage the skin’s cells, leading to early wrinkles and a dull, sallow complexion.
  Unhealthy Diet and Lifestyle: Diets high in sugar and processed foods can cause glycation, a process where sugar molecules bind to and damage collagen and elastin. Lack of sleep, chronic stress, and excessive alcohol consumption also take a toll on skin health, accelerating the ageing process.

The good news is that extrinsic ageing can often be prevented or minimised by adopting a healthier lifestyle, protecting your skin from environmental damage, and using targeted skincare products.

The Role of a Healthy Lifestyle in Skin Health

Your skin is often a reflection of your overall health. What you eat, how you manage stress, and your daily habits can all influence the appearance and vitality of your skin. A balanced diet and healthy habits are crucial for maintaining youthful, glowing skin.

• Nutrition: Skin requires essential nutrients such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to stay healthy. Diets lacking these nutrients can result in dry, lacklustre skin and make you more prone to damage.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your skin hydrated and maintaining its elasticity.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity boosts circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin, giving it a healthy glow.
• Sleep and Stress Management: Poor sleep and high stress can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which accelerate ageing. Prioritising good sleep and managing stress can help keep your skin looking fresh and youthful.

By making simple lifestyle adjustments, such as eating a nutrient-rich diet, staying active, and reducing stress, you can protect your skin from premature ageing.

Science-Backed Treatments for Ageing Skin

In addition to lifestyle changes, a well-thought-out skincare routine and advanced treatments can significantly slow down the visible signs of ageing. At SkinCision, we recommend a combination of science-backed treatments to target specific concerns:

• PRP Therapy: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce fine lines and improve skin texture.
• Profhilo Injections: Profhilo is a hyaluronic acid treatment that deeply hydrates the skin and promotes collagen production, making it ideal for improving skin elasticity and firmness.
• Dermal Fillers and Anti-Wrinkle Injections: These treatments can restore lost volume and smooth out wrinkles, offering immediate and long-lasting results.

A tailored approach that combines in-clinic treatments with a consistent home skincare regimen can provide significant anti-ageing benefits.

Creating an Effective Skincare Routine

A well-rounded skincare routine is essential for preserving the health and appearance of your skin. At SkinCision, we recommend a simple yet effective regimen that includes:

1. Cleansing: Cleanse your skin twice daily to remove dirt, oil, and pollutants that accumulate throughout the day.
2. Moisturising: Use a moisturiser suited to your skin type to maintain hydration and support the skin’s barrier function.
3. Sun Protection: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

By incorporating the right products into your routine and seeking professional treatments when needed, you can manage both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing effectively.

While ageing is a natural part of life, understanding the factors that contribute to skin ageing can help you take control of the process. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using sun protection, and integrating evidence-backed treatments, you can keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant for years to come.

If you’d like to explore personalised treatment options to support your skin’s health and appearance, the team at SkinCision by Allen Rezai MD is here to help and guide you to achieve the best possible version of your skin.