Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors which Causes Skin to Age
Ageing is a process influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factories which ultimately leads to loss of structural integrity in the skin.
Intrinsic ageing of the skin occurs as a natural consequence of ageing such as ethnicity, changes to hormone levels, reduction of fat beneath the skin and reduction in collagen and elastin fibres.
Extrinsic factors are influenced by sun exposure, pollution or nicotine, repetitive muscle movement such as frowning, diet and sleep position (to a degree).
Can you guess which of the above contributes largely to skin ageing?
How to manipulate the rate at which our skin age?
- Avoid excess sun exposure and nicotine,
- Diet high in antioxidants and phytoestrogens (especially important from your late 30’s). We do recommend if you have a history of oestrogen dependant cancer to check with your doctor prior to increasing food/supplements which stimulate oestrogen receptors,
- Invest in good skincare products that will improve skin elasticity, increase skin cell turnover, improve skin hydration, and promote collagen production,
- Sleep on your back instead of on your stomach. It is suggested that daily creases in the skin cause them to become permanent, and
- No frowning! (although, there are synthetic ingredients which can reduce the appearance of verticle lines if you can't control this subconsciously ... and it's not botox!
We believe taking good care of your skin starts with prevention, so the sooner we are conscious of our habits, the more our skin will thank us later!
References:
Farage, M; Miller, K et al. "Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors in Skin Ageing: A Review" International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2008).
