by Dr Vijith Vijayasekaran

The ageing process occurs in all organs but is most obvious in the skin. The biological processes involved in skin ageing begin in early adulthood.

There are two processes in skin ageing. Intrinsic ageing is related to genetic make-up and hormonal changes, and varies between individuals. Extrinsic skin ageing is related to external factors and can be altered by reducing exposure to these factors.

Sun exposure is the main extrinsic factor, with up to 80% of skin ageing attributed to sun exposure, known as ‘photo ageing’.

Other extrinsic factors include smoking, alcohol and poor nutrition.

Photo ageing occurs most prominently in highly exposed areas such as the face and chest. The appearance of photo-aged skin includes freckles, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation (darkening), patchy hypopigmentation (lightening), loss of collagen, reduced tone and elasticity, dryness, skin fragility, areas of purpura (purple or red discolourations) and benign skin lesions such as keratoses, telangiectasia (spider veins) and skin tags.

Photo ageing can be reduced through good skin care.

Several active ingredients have evidence for reducing signs of skin ageing. The three priorities are:

Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
As sun avoidance is difficult in Perth, the use of sunscreen with the highest SPF factor available should be a critical part of your daily skin-care regimen.
Topical Vitamin A (Retinoids)
Clinical trials have shown improvement in photo-aged skin, both clinically and histologically, in patients using retinoids. There is evidence that retinoids can also improve intrinsically-aged skin. Retinoids increase skin cell turnover and may reduce the appearance of sun damage and some hormonal pigmentation, stimulate collagen production, support skin thickness and the epidermal barrier, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and help regulate oil levels in acne-prone skin.
Topical Vitamin C
This is a potent antioxidant that helps protect skin from harmful environmental stressors by neutralising free radicals on the skin before they cause damage.

Click here to read about the medical-grade skin products we recommend.

A long-term skin-care regimen that includes the treatments above will help reduce the effects of photo ageing and may also reduce the incidence of some benign skin lesions. Depending on your skin and treatment goals, a tailored regimen may combine cosmeceutical and prescription-strength formulations.

Our qualified dermal therapists at Assure Cosmetic Centre provide skin consultations and can devise a skincare regimen tailored to your skin’s specific needs. Consultations may be available in person or by video where appropriate. Deposits apply for certain bookings and are redeemable against the cost of treatment or skincare product purchases.

We encourage all our patients to pursue improved skin care, whether here with us or with another clinically based skin treatment clinic.

To book an appointment, call 9380 0380 or contact us online.

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