From around the age of 25 the first signs of ageing start to become apparent on the surface of the skin. Starting with fine lines and a loss of moisture, skin’s ageing process progresses over time and can be categorised into three main signs:

Wrinkles, loss of elasticity and loss of volume.

Causes of ageing (internal)

Our biological age determines structural changes in the skin and the efficiency of cell functions, and these slow down over time.

Hormonal influences.

Menopause can cause a drop in the levels of oestrogen (instruction giving hormones) resulting in reduced messaging between the cells.

A poorer blood supply to the skin means the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the skin’s surface is impeded. The radiance that is a feature of young skin fades, and skin becomes duller.

Genetics.

Genetics play a key role in how skin ages. The photo-type and skin type we are born with make a difference to how quickly signs of ageing appear on the skin's surface.

Causes of ageing (external)

Sun.

The sun’s rays are the primary external cause of skin ageing via oxidative stress. Skin damage caused by the sun is known as photo ageing, and uneven pigmentation is often one of the first visible signs of ageing to appear.


Pollution.

Exposure to air pollution can trigger the release of skin damaging free radicals. Pollution also worsens the effects of sun exposure, further accelerating oxidative stress.


Smoking.

The chemicals and nicotine contained in cigarettes increase the number of free radicals in the skin. Like pollution, they also intensify the effects of sun exposure.


Nutrition.

Antioxidants are molecules with the ability to neutralise the free radicals that damage skin and speed up skin ageing. Eating lots of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables is an important part of caring for our skin as it ages.

Inappropriate skincare.

Skin will age more quickly if it is poorly cared for or if you use products that irritate your skin. Thorough cleansing using gentle products appropriate for your skin type, together with the regular application of products targeted at your skin’s primary concern, will help to care for skin.

I have selected products that I feel are particularly beneficial to ageing skin, which can be used alongside, or to replace your existing skincare regime.