Internal Aging

This is a continuous process that begins in our 20's when skin cell production slows down. Premature aging begins in the 20's and may not show up until decades later. Possibly why so many young adults continue to ignore the warnings about sun damage to their skin. At this stage, collagen production begins to lessen and elastin begins to be less stretchy. Dead skin cell turnover is not as fast nor do they shed as easily. Signs of this natural aging process might be:

- Fine wrinkles on the facial area and neck

- Thin and transparent skin allowing blood vessels to show

- Loss of underlying fat, leading to sunken cheeks and eye sockets as well as loose sagging skin on the hands and neck

- Dry itchy skin

- Inability to sweat sufficiently to cool the skin

- Graying hair

- Loss of hair or unwanted hair in other places

Hereditary factors determine how and when the aging process begins and how fast it proceeds. Any one of these symptoms of aging skin might occur first followed by others at any time. Some may show in people as early as their 20's while others may not show until 40 years of age.

External Aging

Combine the internal aging with external aging and you have a great probably of speeding up the aging process prematurely. The sun is the major cause of premature aging.

Sun screen. Avoiding the sun just a few minutes a day can cause a positive impact on how much premature skin aging may occur. From the severest ' skin cancer, to others like age spots, freckles, loose skin, leathery rough skin, spotted complexion all from too much sun exposure without protection.

The severity of skin change depends on the length of exposure over the years and the persons skin color. The actual process of change that is occurring in the skin is happening in the second layer of skin. UV light breaks down collagen and prevents new collagen from growing.

Airborne pollutants also contribute to signs of aging. Dirt and chemical particles in the air create a layer of cover over the skin and prevent oxygen from entering the cells to be used as a nutrient.

Now add cigarette smoking on top of those two and you have the trifecta of skin aging. Smoking cause biochemical changes in the body that accelerates aging. If they live long enough to view the changes in their skin, research shows that smokers will develop deep wrinkled leathery skin. This can even be a weird yellowish color. Interestingly, stopping smoking can reduce the visible signs of aging given enough time.

How to Slow the Skins Aging Process and Look Younger

Remember, the aging process can't be stopped because it is hereditary. Quitting smoking, protecting the face from pollution and sun can help prevent premature aging. Many doctors recommend wearing broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen with a sun screen protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher year round. Don't use tanning devices and wear a hat when working outdoors. The better the skin is taken care of the younger and healthier it will continue to look.