A Comprehensive Guide to Aging: Understanding, Managing, and Slowing the Process
At what age do we start aging? - First signs of aging start to become apparent around the age of 25 years onwards.
What are the signs of aging?
Skin and hair are amongst the first places where you can see the initial signs of aging. Greying hair, receding hair line particularly in men, appearance of fine lines on the forehead and around eyes, volume loss on the cheek, sagging skin below chin or jawline, dry skin & age spots are common signs of aging process.
What causes wrinkles and skin sagging?
Breakdown and gradual depletion of skin connective tissue i.e. collagen and elastic fibers, skin dryness (due to decreased production of natural skin glands and increased trans epidermal water loss), fat loss, muscular weakness and bone resorption play their role in the development of wrinkles and sagging skin.
What factors do play a major role in the aging process?
Genetics, hormonal imbalances, chronic diseases, sun exposure, smoking, high stress levels, sudden weight loss, lack of sleep, alcohol abuse and nutrition problems etc. can play vital role in accelerating the aging process.
Can we slow down the aging process?
Yes. There are 3 main steps to slow down the aging process.
1- Life style changes
2- Regular skin care routine
3- Early start of minimally noninvasive options for skin care.
What life style changes are needed to prevent early skin aging?
Good diet, quality sleep, controlling stress level, sun protection, avoiding smoking & alcohol, drinking plenty of water, avoiding air pollution and controlling underlying health conditions.
What skin care routine should you follow to slow down the aging process?
1- Wear sunscreen regularly
2- Apply a suitable moisturizer. A moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are highly recommended.
3- Use a retinol cream or serum
What office based anti-aging procedures are available to slow down the aging process?
1- Energy based devices including fractional lasers, Micro needling radio frequency, HIFU therapy and IPL.
2- Injectable including skin booster, Botox, mesotherapy, PRP, exosomes and Fillers (by adding volume and bio stimulation)
3- Threads (short & long threads)
4- Chemical peels
5- Surgical lifting