Skin and ageing

Ageing is a complicated process involving the interaction of numerous biological factors with the external environment. Along with inevitability, it is the transient and elusive characteristics of ageing that frequently capture attention. Most of us will know someone who appears ten, even twenty years younger than their chronological age. It also seems true that profoundly stressful or sad life events have a potential to age those afflicted, sometimes dramatically and with physical changes that seem to occur overnight. From the perspective of this humble reality, it is wise to ignore and avoid cosmetic products and procedures which promise to eradicate or reverse the visible effects of skin damage and ageing. The concept of eternal youth is cynical marketing strategy and an altogether unreliable proposition. Under normal circumstances, the appearance of mature skin is determined by the impact of internal health, environmental factors and the level of care provided since youth.

Normal ageing

The normal signs of ageing skin follow a predictable course with some variation depending on individual genetics and skin type. For most individuals, the sebaceous glands become less active around the age of thirty, initially causing some moisture decrease in the superficial epidermal layers. This may result in the appearance of some very fine lines, particularly across the thinner skin of the forehead, neck, and eyes. Over time, these lines become deeper, providing each face with the individual character creases of maturity.

A dermatological analysis of mature skin will reveal signs of structural breakdown within the foundation layers of the dermis. Unlike youthful skin in which individual fibres of collagen are stretched out and neatly arranged, the underlying fibres of mature skin will be bunched up and randomly cross linked. This pattern decreases the elasticity and resilience of skin tissue. In addition to these structural changes, the rate of cell replenishment declines progressively with age. A basic understanding and acceptance of these changes will provide an opportunity to nurture and maintain healthy skin throughout the human lifespan.

Free radicals

Some of the physical changes affecting skin as a consequence of ageing may be explained according to the theory of free radical damage. A free radical is essentially an isolated oxygen atom with an unstable electron configuration. The inherent instability causes these atoms to replace their missing electrons by combining with other molecules. Each oxygen atom that successfully recombines will initiate more unstable ones in a cascading sequence. Whenever this supply of electrons is scavenged from molecules within living cells, there is likely to be the type of structural and functional damage commonly described as oxidation.

In skin cells, free radical damage has potential to corrupt the integrity of external membranes. Over time, this will result in progressive moisture loss, wrinkles, and other visible signs of ageing.

A sensible lifestyle which includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and adequate rest will help to limit the impact of free radical damage, and preserve the integrity and appearance of mature skin. Vitamins and minerals with antioxidant properties enable the body to defend against free radicals and other harmful substances like disease causing pathogens, and environmental pollutants.

While there are specific health supplements containing concentrated antioxidant nutrients, the best source of these is considered to be a varied menu of fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, nuts, legumes, herbs, and organically grown tea. Since the middle of last century, intensive chemical based agriculture has caused previously fertile areas to become increasingly nutrient deficient. Several studies on Australian rural soils have measured extremely low concentrations of antioxidant minerals such as selenium, manganese, and zinc. One of the best safeguards against receiving sub optimal nutrition is to obtain foods that are produced or raised according to organic principles. By protecting their soils and promoting environmental sustainability, organic producers can supply foods that are considerably safer and more nutritious than the conventional alternatives.

Physical activity

Poor nutrient absorption and fluctuating weight are amongst the commonest causes of dull, lifeless skin in mature individuals. Provided there are no pre-existing illnesses or other debilitating conditions, regular physical activity will enable the body to become more efficient in its use of nutrients and to maintain its optimum mass and proportion. Aerobic exercise such as cycling, jogging, dancing, and fast walking will increase the heart rate, causing more oxygenated blood to reach the fine capillaries which support the matrix of skin cells beneath the epidermis. Individuals who eat well and take regular exercise will, in most cases, exhibit firmer skin of superior colour and texture when compared with sedentary individuals of similar age.

Managing stress

The normal ageing process may be accelerated by various types of physical and emotional stress. Throughout life, many individuals learn to cope with the various frustrations, disappointments and tragedies that contrast against the positive experiences. Beyond middle age, the increased risk of personal illness and death is usually accompanied by the realistic fear of losing parents, siblings, friends, and partners. Dealing appropriately with these issues is one important strategy for preventing the development of psychological problems.

Medical statistics reveal that high percentages of the elderly population suffer from debilitating forms of depression, isolation, and their associated symptoms like insomnia, and substance abuse. Aside from personal counselling, one of the most effective treatments is those sponsored events and projects which require participation across broad sectors of the community. A fine example of this would be the planning and preparation of a common plot to raise fruit and vegetables according to organic principles. In addition to the social contact and mental stimulation gained through sharing knowledge and experience, participating individuals will benefit through receiving their share of a wholesome crop that is untainted by the indiscriminate use of horticultural chemicals.