When it comes to fighting the signs of aging it’s easy to become distracted by technology, advanced systems and lists of ingredients carry terminology we cannot spell or pronounce. Our advice it to start with the absolute basics which are literally staring us on the face.
What is aging?
To fight the signs of aging, we need to under what happens to our skin. Aging results in our skin looking paler and thinner and large pigment spots appear in sun-exposed areas. Changes in the connectively tissue reduces the skin strength and elasticity cause sagging, leathery look. Sebaceous glands will also produce less oil as we age making it harder to keep the skin moist and thereby resulting in dryness and itchiness. Literally, not a pretty sight.
How do we fight it?
The three simplest solutions to holding back the ravages of time is to directly address the aging process.
1.Protect
A daily SPF (Sun Protection Factor) will protect our skin against photo aging; the wrinkling, spotting and loss of elasticity caused by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation.. Sunscreens contain a combination of ingredients which assist in preventing the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays from reaching the skin. Two types of ultraviolet radiation which damage the skin and age it prematurely are UVA and UVB. Daily use of a broad-spectrum (UVA / UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher does help help to reduce aging of the skin caused by sun damage. Its even been proven by the American Academy of Dermatology that a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 blocks at least 97% of the sun’s rays.
2. Hydrate and Moisturise
Think of a plant. If we don’t water it, it dries out, wilts and dies. The same principle applies to our skin cells which is 90% water. As we age, cells weaken and our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid. This means that our cells can’t retain moisture as effectively which subsequently affects the quality of our skin. Drink water! It will keep your body and skin healthy by flushing those toxins out and plumping up those skin cells. In addition to drinking water, also ensure your skincare routine includes a cream and a serum which reinforce the skin’s barrier and retains moisture.
3.Boost
Collagen is the protein which makes up 75 to 80 percent of our dermis and keeps our complexion firm, plump, and youthful. Its produced in the body by youth cells called fibroblasts. Aging sets in when our fibroblasts die and produce less collagen resulting in sagging, dull, lifeless looking skin. Peptides are naturally occurring amino acids which literally tell the fibroblasts to produce collagen
To slow down the process, choose skincare products which contain high levels of active ingredients like peptides to boost collagen production.
The easiest way is to add a vitamin C to your routine which will prolong a youthful and radiant complexion. Obagi Professional C serum is concentrated serum with 10, 15 or 20% vitamin C that gradually promotes collagen production which plumps skin and reduces the look of wrinkles.
The Bio-Therapeutic Platinum ranges carries a range of peptide serums and creams which will accelerate the production of collagen and elastin. thereby decreasing wrinkle depth and offer protection against photo aging.
As you can see, anti-aging starts with prevention but it’s never too late to start. We have successfully treated clients in the 70’s who are all still fit and healthy enough to want to look younger, with each treatment starting with the basics. Cheat the clock and speak to our therapists about an anti-aging solution perfectly suited for you.
