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 Aging skin changes are related to environmental factors, genetic makeup, nutrition, and other factors. The greatest single factor, though, is sun exposure. This can be seen by comparing areas of your skin that have regular sun exposure with areas that are protected from sunlight. Aging is a progressive, predictable process that involves the evolution and maturation of living organisms. Aging skin is inevitable, but the rate of aging varies greatly among individuals.
With aging, the outer skin layer (epidermis) thins even though the number of cell layers remains unchanged. The number of pigment-containing cells (melanocytes) decreases, but the remaining melanocytes increase in size. Aging skin thus appears thinner, more pale, and translucent. Large pigmented spots (called age spots, liver spots, or lentigos) may appear in sun-exposed areas.
Aging causes changes in the connective tissue which reduces the skin's strength and elasticity. This is known as elastosis and is especially pronounced in sun-exposed areas (solar elastosis). Elastosis produces the leathery, weather-beaten appearance common to farmers, sailors, and others who spend a large portion of their life outdoors.
Other aging skin changes are the blood vessels of the dermis become more fragile, which in turn leads to bruising, bleeding under the skin (purpura), cherry angiomas, and similar conditions. Sebaceous glands produce less oil as you age. Men experience a minimal decrease, usually after 80 years old. Women gradually produce less oil beginning after menopause. This can make it harder to keep the skin moist, resulting in dryness and itchiness.
With aging the skin's subcutaneous fat layer, which provides insulation and padding, thins. This increases your risk of skin injury and reduces your ability to maintain body temperature. Because you have less "natural insulation" and in cold weather, hypothermia can result. Some medications are absorbed by the fat layer, and loss of this layer changes the way that these medications work.
A serious issue in aging skin is the sweat glands produce less sweat. This makes it harder to keep cool, and you become at increased risk for becoming overheated or developing heat stroke.
People age at different rates. While genetic makeup cannot change, lifestyle choices, such as diet, smoking, exercise and drinking can modify the aging process.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. |
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