Skin Care Consultations

 

Prevention is better than cure, always remember to protect your skin with appropriate clothing and skin care products which protect against ultraviolet (UV) rays.

 

If you already developed skin ageing signs -- what to do?

 

Research shows that there are, in fact, two distinct types of ageing. Ageing caused by the genes we inherit is called intrinsic (internal) ageing. The other type of ageing is known as extrinsic (external) ageing and is caused by environmental factors, such as exposure to the sun's rays.

 

Intrinsic Ageing


Intrinsic ageing, also known as the natural ageing process, is a continuous process that normally begins in our mid-20s. Within the skin, collagen production slows, and elastin, the substance that enables skin to snap back into place, has a bit less spring. Dead skin cells do not shed as quickly and turnover of new skin cells may decrease slightly. While these changes usually begin in our 20s, the signs of intrinsic ageing are typically not visible for decades. The signs of intrinsic ageing are:

  • Fine wrinkles

  • Thin and transparent skin

  • Loss of underlying fat, leading to hollowed cheeks and eye sockets as well as noticeable loss of firmness on the hands and neck

  • Bones shrink away from the skin due to bone loss, which causes sagging skin

  • Dry skin that may itch

  • Inability to sweat sufficiently to cool the skin

  • Greying hair that eventually turns white

  • Hair loss

  • Unwanted hair

  • Nail plate thins, the half moons disappear, and ridges develop


Extrinsic Ageing


A number of extrinsic, or external, factors often act together with the normal ageing process to prematurely age our skin. Most premature ageing is caused by sun exposure. Other external factors that prematurely age our skin are repetitive facial expressions, gravity, sleeping positions, and smoking.

 

 

sun damage

Image from MayoClinic.com

The Sun

Without protection from the sun's rays, just a few minutes of exposure each day over the years can cause noticeable changes to the skin. Freckles, age spots, spider veins on the face, rough and leathery skin, fine wrinkles that disappear when stretched, loose skin, a blotchy complexion, actinic keratoses (thick wart-like, rough, reddish patches of skin), and skin cancer can all be traced to sun exposure. "Photoageing" is the term dermatologists use to describe this type of ageing caused by exposure to the sun's rays.

 

 

 

 

Treatment

If you are bothered by visible signs of ageing, a number of treatments are available. Dr Sue can help you sort through the numerous options, including the over-the-counter products. During a consultation, she will examine your skin, discuss your expectations, and recommend suitable treatment options.