All skin ages – from birth
Normal skin aging begins at birth and, like the aging of the entire organism, is a natural physiological process. Proper skin care begins after birth. Biological skin aging leaves its first traces from around the age of 25.
The aging of the skin occurs mainly in the connective tissue of the dermis, which consists almost exclusively of collagen fibers. In young skin, these are mobile and can be pushed against one another. Due to their ability to swell, they can store a lot of moisture.
During the process of skin aging, on the one hand cell activity decreases continuously, on the other hand individual fibers of the collagen, which are responsible for elasticity, resilience and moisture retention, harden and stick together. The decreasing skin elasticity is accompanied by a reduced water-binding capacity of the epidermis.
Signs of skin aging are laxity of the skin, wrinkling, dryness and a patchy pigment shift as well as possible keratinization disorders.
However, physiological skin aging rarely stands alone. This process is intensified and accelerated by the effects of a variety of external factors, such as sunlight, cold, UV radiation, air pollution or heating air. Washing the skin too frequently leads to a deficit in the skin’s own ingredients such as horny cells, skin fats and water. Today’s living conditions with an unbalanced diet and a lack of exercise also have a negative effect. Internal and external stress and incorrect care also contribute to premature skin aging.
The loss of moisture and fat causes the body skin to become increasingly brittle and rough. Since the skin alone cannot neutralize the effects of biological or external influences, it needs special care products that balance the fat and moisture balance. This not only alleviates the skin aging process with its visible consequences, but also restores the skin’s original state of balance and thus restores its natural protective functions.
Which care is the right one?
Skin care should keep the skin supple and, in the event of damage, support the horny layer in its natural ability to regenerate or restore the barrier properties. Successful skin care also aims to maintain the youthful freshness and elasticity of the skin. However, this is only possible with suitable preparations that have different functions and must correspond exactly to the needs of the skin.
A large number of products are available for the goals of skin care – moisturizing and protecting the upper layers of the cornea as well as ensuring and supporting skin renewal.
A key differentiator between the various skin care products is their consistency. A distinction is made between creams (spreadable), lotions and milk (flowable), gels and serums (semi-solid), oils and balms and aqueous solutions .
care tips
- Consistent skin care with high-quality products throughout the year combined with a healthy diet and sufficient exercise are the best prerequisites for healthy, fresh skin.
- In order to maintain the natural skin balance , a body lotion should be used daily or several times a week, depending on the skin type. Parts of the body that are particularly stressed should be cared for with extra rich products. In particular, it is advisable to use a body lotion or cream after every bath/shower and after sunbathing.
- Water is an elixir of life – also and especially for the skin. Drinking a lot (1.5 – 2 liters per day) sustainably supports the skin functions, especially in the dry and cold season .
- The targeted supply of vitamins A, C and E can significantly increase the skin’s resistance
- During pregnancy , the skin and tissue of the abdominal area are particularly stressed. There can be tears and stretch marks in the connective tissue at the stretch zones. An effective prevention against stretch marks is the regular massage of the skin with a skin oil.
Source: haut.de
