Skin and the aging process

• Anatomy and physiology
• Further Education (Key Stage 5)

Ageing of the skin 

Which factors contribute to ageing skin?

What is skin ageing?

Differences in texture, wrinkles, pigmentation and elasticity

Internal  factors

Genetics and origin: Genetics play a major role in the ageing process.  

Different ethnicities also age at varying rates.  The natural protection offered by the presence of melanin influences differences in the rate at which skin changes between different racial groups.

 For example, Caucasians have an earlier and greater onset of skin wrinkling and sagging than other ethnic groups. Asians, in contrast, are more prone to uneven skin tone, with wrinkles appearing later.

External factors

U.V radiation

Prolonged sun exposure without protection can lead to premature ageing, including sun spots, fine lines, skin sagging and wrinkles.

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Smoking accelerates the ageing process by constricting blood vessels and depleting oxygen from the skin.

Smoking causes uneven skin tone, sagging skin, skin cancer, poor healing of wounds and dilated capillaries.

Individuals who follow an unhealthy diet and lifestyle will affect the rate at which skin ages.

Following a healthy lifestyle e.g balanced diet, regular exercise, no smoking and limited alcohol intake will have a more youthful and healthy appearance to their skin. 

Environmental factors

Living in heavily polluted areas can contribute to poor skin condition and premature ageing.

Pollution damages the skin barrier leading to irritation and other skin conditions.

Pollution can come in many forms e.g fumes from vehicle exhausts, fuel burning from industrial sites, blue light being omitted from your smartphone or computer and household chemicals.

What is the most damaging factor that contributes to skin ageing?

1. Poor diet
2. Pollutants
3. Lifestyle
4. UV rays

Which of the following can cause premature skin ageing?

1. Pollutants
2. Skincare
3. Poor diet
4. UV rays

Which of the following can accelerate the ageing process of the skin?

1. Pollutants
2. Poor diet
3. Lifestyle
4. UV rays