Intrinsic Aging
Research shows that there are, in fact, two distinct types of aging. Aging caused by the genes we inherit is called intrinsic (internal) aging. The other type of aging is known as extrinsic (external) aging and is caused by environmental factors, such as exposure to the sun’s rays. (see Extrinsic aging/sun-damage)
Intrinsic aging is also known as the natural aging process that normally begins in our mid-20s and is progressive. Within the skin, collagen production slows, and elastin, the substance giving the skin its elastic properties, has a bit less spring. Dead skin cells don’t shed as fast and there is a decrease in new skin cells production. While these changes usually begin in our 20s, the signs of intrinsic aging are typically not visible for decades.
Watch this educational video to find out what really happens to your face when you age and possible treatment options.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-omEbN-GBk&feature=share&list=ULx-omEbN-GBk
The signs of intrinsic aging 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
- Graying hair that eventually turns white
- Hair loss
- Unwanted hair
- Nail plate thins, the half moons disappear, and ridges develop
Other Contributing Factors
Facial Expressions
Repetitive facial movements actually lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Each time we use a facial muscle, a groove forms beneath the surface of the skin, which is why we see lines form with each facial expression. As our skin ages and loses its elasticity, the skin stops springing back to its line-free state, causing these grooves to become permanently etched on the face as fine lines and wrinkles.
Gravity
Gravity constantly pulls on our bodies resulting in the effects becoming more pronounced with age. In our 40’s and 50’s, the skin’s elasticity declines dramatically which when combined with the effects of gravity cause the tip of the nose to droop, the ears to elongate, the eyelids to droop, jowls to form, and the upper lip to disappear while the lower lip becomes more pronounced.
Sleeping Positions
Lying on your pillow in the same way every night for years on end will lead to wrinkles called sleep lines. These lines eventually become etched in the skin and no longer disappear when the head is not resting on the pillow. A tendency to sleep on your side, will likely cause these lines appear on your chin, cheeks or forehead. While those that sleep on their back don’t develop these lines as their skin isn’t squashed against the pillow.
Smoking
- Cigarette smoking causes numerous biochemical changes in our bodies that accelerate aging.
- Depletion of vitamin C with every cigarette reduces the production and preservation of collagen.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning causes oxygen and nutrient deficiency affecting the entire body including the skin.
- Deadly chemicals cause the liver to become overworked leading to a sallow appearance
- Repetitive muscle movements cause permanent lines and wrinkles around the mouth
Treatments
- Fractional laser resurfacing
- Dermal Fillers
- Wrinkle relaxers
- Photodynamic therapy
- LED light therapy
- Skin needling
- TCA peel
- Glycolic acid peels
- Microdermabrasion
- Topical skincare applications
During your consultation, a personalised treatment program will be designed for you to address your individual needs and concerns.
Call us on 9300 0663, or visit our online booking facility to make an appointment for a consultation today.