Aging Skin

In the war on aging skin, Beauty Day Spa now has a new generation of cosmeceuticals that offers clinical benefits. Ultra-potent antioxidants, stem cell modulators and DNA technologies offer targeted strategies for slowing down and/or reversing the signs of aging.

Let's review the aging process, which has intrinsic and extrinsic bases in humans. These two clinically, bio­logically independent processes affect skin structure and function.

Intrinsic aging is a natural process that occurs from slow, but progressive and irreversible tissue degeneration. Telomere shortening, metabolic oxidative damage and free reactive oxygen species play a major role in the innate aging process.¹Based on unique genetic factors, intrinsic aging affects everyone at different rates.

It is characterized by decreased collagen synthesis, degeneration of elastic fiber networks and loss of hydration. Fine wrinkling of the skin, loss of skin tone, skin laxity and loss of subcu­taneous fat occur.

Of the extrinsic factors, ultraviolet and infrared radiation, environmental pollutants and wind play a crucial role. Photoaging is characterized by coarse wrinkling and a variety of benign, premalignant and malignant neoplasms. Photodamaged skin shows a 20 percent decrease in total collagen and decreased cellular content compared to sun-protected skin.

Moreover, pigmentary alterations, red superficial blood vessels (telangiectasias) and hyperpigmented areas contribute to an aged appearance by creating shadows and contrast on the face.

Topical preparations to improve the appearance of aged skin fall into four broad categories: Antioxidants, pigment reduction agents, anti-inflammatory rejuvenators, and stem cell modulators.

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