Ageing
 
It’s something that probably worries us all, but did you know that there are two distinct types of aging?
 
Intrinsic Aging

Basically, the natural ageing process. This is down to our inherited genes, and is a continuous process that normally begins in our mid-20s, although the signs of it are typically not visible for decades.
 
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.
 
Extrinsic Aging

This is caused by external factors, prime among them being sun exposure. 

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, including freckles, age spots, spider veins, 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.

 
Other factors that prematurely age our skin include:

• Repetitive facial expressions
• Gravity
• Sleeping positions
• Smoking
• Pollution
• Weather extremes
• Alcohol
• Diet
• Skin care

The ageing process varies but common signs you may notice from your twenties are:
 
• Fine Lines and wrinkles
• Thin and transparent skin
• Loss of underlying fat, leading to hollowed cheeks and eye sockets.
• Loss of firmness on the hands and neck

How is it treated?

While we cannot stop the ageing process, you can slow its progression with a number of anti-ageing wrinkle treatments including:
 
• Botox® (the No 1  anti-ageing procedure)
• Dermal Fillers
• Skin rejuvenation
• Laser resurfacing
• T3 Collagen Remodelling

Diet and lifestyle changes can also help to hold back the years, as can a skin care regime at home that keeps your collagen and elastin stimulated.
 
If you’re looking to slow down the ageing process with natural, fresh and youthful results the Royal Tunbridge Wells Skin & Laser Clinic is here to help you. There are many options available depending on your concerns and individual needs, and one of our experienced practitioners can build a bespoke treatment plan together with you.
 
The secrets to anti ageing products
We’ve all done it – looked at Hollywood’s hottest celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz, Halle Berry and Catherine Zeta Jones and struggled to believe they’re in their 40s, and more importantly wondered how they do it. The simple answer is that they started taking care of their skin decades ago!
 
While you may not be thinking about wrinkles, brown spots, and the like right now, these women are proof that establishing a good regimen early in life can keep you looking slamming later on.
 
So what are their secrets...?
1. Obsessive about sunscreens.

What those envy inducing snaps of stars diving off yachts in Saint-Tropez or walking on the beach in Malibu don’t show you is how these women are militant about wearing SPF protection every single day.
 
Sun protection of at least Factor 35 should be applied every day summer and winter.
 
2. Vitamins and Exfoliation

There have been many studies proving the benefits of retinoids — vitamin-A derivatives that speed up cellular turnover. And these glowing 40-and-over celebrities are now walking billboards for this magic ingredient.
 
The first prescription retinoid, Retin-A, became available in the early 1970s as an anti-acne remedy. Now, decades later, we fully realise the anti-aging benefits of Retinoids, such as encouraging collagen production, reducing fine lines, improving elasticity, and plumping the skin.
 
The stars who are now in their 40s started using Retin-A as teenagers to control their breakouts. We recommend Obagi, a medically prescribed treatment product range that helps target age spots, fine lines and wrinkles or adult acne.
 
3. Pure Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the best known products to help fight against free radicals that damage youthful, fresh skin. Using just a small amount everyday will keep your skin protected.
 
Not only does this product add protection and vitality it also improves dull ageing skin (ascorbic acid percentages vary). Ask your practitioner about the options available.
 
Contact us here at the Royal Tunbridge Wells Skin & Laser Clinic to find out how we can help improve your skin condition and texture!

Book your FREE Anti-Ageing consultation today.