Ageing & Skin Firmness
Combat the visible signs of ageing with our range of targeted treatments. From smoothing fine lines to firming loose skin, we’re here to help you feel and look your best.
Understanding Ageing Skin: Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Sagging, and Loose Skin
As we age, our skin naturally undergoes changes that result in the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and loose skin. These changes are influenced by both intrinsic factors (genetics and natural ageing) and extrinsic factors (sun exposure, lifestyle, and environmental damage).
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine Lines are often the earliest visible signs of ageing. They appear as shallow creases on the surface of the skin, especially in areas with repeated movement, like around the eyes (crow’s feet) and mouth.
Wrinkles are deeper creases that form as the skin loses elasticity and collagen. Wrinkles become more pronounced over time, appearing on the forehead, around the eyes, mouth, and neck.
- Causes:
- Collagen Breakdown: Collagen provides structure and support to the skin. As we age, collagen production declines, leading to reduced firmness and elasticity.
- Reduced Elastin: Elastin helps skin bounce back after movement. Its depletion causes the skin to stay in wrinkled or folded positions.
- Sun Exposure (Photoaging): UV rays break down collagen and elastin, accelerating the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor diet, lack of sleep, and stress can contribute to premature wrinkle formation.
Sagging and Loose Skin
Sagging occurs as the skin loses its ability to snap back due to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Loose skin is often a result of gravity and the natural decline in skin structure such as bone density and fat atrophy as we age. It commonly affects the jawline (jowls), neck, and cheeks, leading to a less defined facial contour.
- Causes:
- Loss of Volume: As facial fat diminishes with age, the skin loses its youthful plumpness, causing it to sag.
- Collagen and Elastin Depletion: These proteins are responsible for skin strength and elasticity. With age, their production slows, making the skin looser and more prone to sagging.
- Gravity: Over time, gravity pulls the skin downward, leading to jowls and sagging in areas like the neck and cheeks.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor hydration, and excessive sun exposure can accelerate collagen breakdown and increase skin laxity.
Glycation
Glycation contributes to skin aging by forming advanced glycation end products (AGEs) when sugar molecules bind to proteins like collagen and elastin, making them stiff and prone to damage. This results in fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and dullness. Glycation also increases oxidative stress and inflammation, accelerating skin aging.
Prevention and Management
Limit Sugar Intake
A low-sugar diet helps reduce AGE formation.
Use Antioxidants
Skincare with Vitamin C, E, and polyphenols can counter oxidative stress from glycation.
Try Anti-Glycation Products
Ingredients like carnosine in skincare can help block protein-sugar binding.
Adopt Healthy Habits
Avoid smoking, stay hydrated, and eat an antioxidant-rich diet to protect skin.
Prevention and Maintenance
Daily SPF
Protecting the skin from UV damage is essential in preventing collagen breakdown and premature ageing.
Antioxidants
Use skincare products rich in antioxidants (like Vitamin C) to neutralise free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.
Hydration
Keep the skin well-moisturised with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to maintain plumpness and elasticity.
Healthy Diet
Eating a diet rich in vitamins, healthy fats, and antioxidants supports skin health.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking accelerates collagen breakdown and leads to early wrinkles and skin sagging.