Extrinsic Aging of the Skin

As we grow older, our skin get dry and produces cracklings and wrinkles. Is it natural? Yes it is! Because as our age added, our skin also ages. But there are some case where the aging of the skin is premature. Skin Premature aging is also called the Extrinsic Aging.

Dermatologist explained that Extrinsic aging is caused by sun exposure, repetitive facial expressions, gravity, sleeping positions, and smoking. 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. Freckles, age spots, spider veins on the face, 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 can all be traced to sun exposure.

How can we lessen the skin aging?

While you cannot stop or even slow down the intrinsic aging process, you can prevent signs of premature aging by protecting your skin from the sun, quitting smoking, and eliminating facial exercises.

Dermatologists recommend comprehensive sun protection to prevent premature aging caused by the sun. Comprehensive sun protection includes:

• Avoiding deliberate tanning, including use of indoor tanning devices.

• Staying out of the sun between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

• Wearing protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and long sleeves, when outdoors during the day.

• Applying sunscreen year round. Sunscreen should be broad spectrum (offers UVA and UVB protection) and have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before going outdoors to all skin that will be exposed. It should be reapplied after sweating or being in water.