There are many skincare concerns that people struggle with, but the most common ones remain the same for each generation. People continue to seek the holy grail products that alleviate these troublesome concerns and as science and technology advance, there are some promising breakthroughs. While we can't change our genetics, we can take steps to protect, heal and nourish the skin and slow the aging process.

Below are the key factors that influence the formation of fine lines and wrinkles:

AGING:

This refers to the  biological, time-related changes in physiological functions of the body's organs. When we age, our skin loses elasticity and fine lines and wrinkles begin to form.

GENETICS:

Some people are genetically prone to fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, &/or sagging skin at an earlier age than others. This can be due to variations in genes that affect collagen production & the ability of the skin cells to repair damage. 

SUN EXPOSURE:

Elastin is a protein that gives the skin its elasticity, allowing it to stretch and snap back into place.  Exposure to UV radiation from the sun can cause elastin to break down, leading to sagging, drooping skin. Sun exposure can also cause collagen fibers to break down. Collagen is another protein that is essential for maintaining firm, youthful-looking skin. When collagen breaks down, the skin can become thinner and less elastic, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging.

It's important to understand that sun exposure over time can lead to the accumulation of DNA damage in the skin cells. This can cause mutations and impair the ability of the skin cells to repair themselves, leading to premature aging, including skin sagging.

SMOKING: 

Smoking can cause a decrease in blood flow to the skin, which can reduce the blood flow and the oxygen supply to the skin cells. This can cause the skin to become dull, dry, and discolored. Smoking  contributes to premature aging by generating free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA, leading to mutations and impairing the ability of the skin cells to repair themselves.

Over time, smoking can accelerate the aging process, leading to deep wrinkles, leathery skin, and a dull, aged appearance.

FACIAL EXPRESSIONS:

Repeated facial movements, such as frowning or squinting, can cause lines and wrinkles to form over time. These wrinkles are called “dynamic wrinkles” because they are caused by repeated muscle movements. Over time, these wrinkles can become more permanent and may be visible even when the facial muscles are at rest

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: 

When pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide come into contact with the skin, they can cause damage to the skin cells and accelerate the aging process.

Pollution can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to the production of free radicals that damage the skin's collagen and elastin fibers. This can result in wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Additionally, pollution can lead to inflammation, which can worsen skin conditions such as acne and rosacea.

POOR SKINCARE HABITS: 

Neglecting to cleanse, moisturize or protect the skin from the sun can lead to dryness and damage, which can cause wrinkles to form. It is important to cleanse the pollutants and impurities from the skin, to help replenish skin hydration levels and to support the skin’s microbiome, along with introducing skin barrier supporting ingredients in your skincare products.

DIET & HYDRATION LEVELS:  

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. When you're dehydrated, your skin can become dry, flaky, and dull-looking. Eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes a variety of vitamins and minerals can help to nourish your skin from the inside out.  Certain foods can cause inflammation and glycation in the body, which can contribute to skin problems like acne, eczema, and psoriasis but also premature aging of the skin by damaging collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. This damage causes skin sagging and wrinkling.

THE SOLUTION: 

Combined with a healthy lifestyle,  the proper skincare regimen can help cleanse the pollutants and impurities from the skin, replenish skin hydration levels and support the skin’s microbiome and barrier.