Growing old is an inevitable part of life. Some people age gracefully and retain their youthful appearances over the years. However, many of us will exhibit the signs of aging skin on our faces and bodies. While wrinkles and fine lines may start emerging, there are ways to minimize their effects if you take proactive measures.
Your skin is where the first signs of aging should be noticeable, especially around the facial area. You may notice the symptoms around the eyes, near the corners of our lips, and on the forehead. Fortunately, numerous skin care products and treatments come with anti-aging benefits. Microneedling, skin tightening sessions, and many other skin rejuvenation techniques are available to fight the early signs of aging.
Let's learn about the six early warning signs of aging skin. We will explore the symptoms, causes, and suitable treatments to resolve these aging skin problems.
Sign #1: Fine lines and wrinkles
When we think about the early signs of aging skin, many of us are concerned about fine lines and wrinkles. Fine lines are shallow wrinkles mostly found around the eyes. Wrinkles are deeper and more visible lines that occur in various parts of the face.
Fine lines and wrinkles emerge because our skin loses elasticity as we age. Repeated facial expressions, such as smiling or frowning, can amplify the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. Sun exposure, smoking, and pollution will also make these symptoms appear prematurely.
An ongoing skincare routine will be crucial for preventing fine lines and wrinkles. Start by cleansing and moisturizing your skin daily. Also, follow up with regular skin care treatments for aging skin. Other helpful activities include wearing sunscreen, eating healthily, and drinking water to hydrate your skin.
Sign #2: Dry and dehydrated skin
Do you notice redness, flakiness, or itchiness on your skin? These are all common symptoms when you have dry skin. Unless your skin has always felt dry, it could be an early sign of aging. Dehydrated skin will manifest similarly, giving you a dull and wrinkled appearance.
Dry skin occurs when your skin doesn't produce as much natural oil as it used to. Aging, sun exposure, and extreme temperature changes can be responsible for this symptom. As for dehydrated skin, it happens when your skin loses water faster than its intake. Overwashing your skin or not moisturizing it can cause dehydration.
Once again, a solid beauty routine will be your best asset for treating dry or dehydrated skin. Ensure you pick the best cleanser and moisturizer for your skin type. Avoid excessive sun exposure as much as possible, and always remember to wear sunscreen when you go outside.
Sign #3: Dull skin
Do you look at the mirror in the morning and realize your skin looks dull, like it has lost its natural glow? Dull skin can be another early warning sign of aging. As we age, our cells lose the ability to renew themselves quickly. Our cell turnover renewal decreases, making our skin's top layer appear dull.
You can regain your natural glow by removing the top layer of your skin, which consists of dead cells. To achieve this result, use a product that contains glycolic acid to exfoliate your skin at least once a week. Some cosmetic treatments also come with exfoliation benefits, such as chemical peels.
Sign #4: Sagging skin
Loose skin is another symptom of aging, often accompanied by wrinkles. Our body produces two proteins called collagen and elastin, responsible for our skin's structure and elasticity. As we age, our skin benefits from less collagen and elastin, which leads to saggy skin and wrinkles.
Healthy daily habits will help smooth the signs of sagginess. Exercise, eat a nutritious diet, avoid sun exposure, and get sufficient sleep. You can also take collagen and elastin supplements for sagging skin.
Sign #5: Dark spots on skin
Also known as hyperpigmentation, dark spots are sometimes called liver spots, sunspots, or age spots. This aging symptom happens when your skin produces excess melanin. Sun exposure, hormonal changes, skin injuries, or inflammation can be responsible for making these dark spots and patches appear on our skin. Their appearance becomes more frequent as we age.
Skin care products that contain vitamin C will help treat hyperpigmentation. In addition, chemical peels can also minimize the dark spots on your skin.
Sign #6: Dark circles and bags under eyes
The skin around our eyes is thinner than the rest of our faces. Our skin gets even more delicate as we age, causing dark circles and bags under our eyes. Sun exposure, pollution, hormonal changes, allergies, and insufficient sleep will also exacerbate these signs of aging skin.
Using a retinol-based eye cream will help thicken the fragile skin around your eyes. You should also wear sunglasses with UV protection when you go outside. Plus, get at least eight hours of sleep each night. Ideally, sleep on your back as much as possible to avoid putting pressure on your face.