Skin and the aging process

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

Skin and the ageing process

Explain the key factors contributing to the aging process of the skin.

Identify the impact of each factor.

Explain how elastin and collagen fibres contribute to the aging of the skin. 

Key words

Intrinsic  - IN-TRIN-SIK

Extrinsic - EX-TRIN-SIK

Elastin

Collagen

Ethnicity

Which factors contribute to ageing skin?

What is skin ageing?

There are two types of ageing processes: intrinsic and extrinsic ageing.

Intrinsic or chronological ageing affects the skin of the entire body, including sun-protected sites.

Extrinsic ageing is induced by chronic ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, smoking, and other pollutants, and is superimposed on the intrinsic ageing process.

Differences in texture, wrinkles, pigmentation and elasticity

Intrinsic 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.

Task 1

In your groups research the following;  You must explain the way that skin ages according to ethnicity.  You must present your findings to the class.  

Group 1 - Caucasian 

Group 2 - Afro-Caribbean

Group 3 - Asian

Group 4 - Oriental

Group 5 - Mediterranean

State the differences between ethnic skin types

Extrinsic factors

U.V radiation

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

00:09

What factors contribute to skin ageing?

00:25

02:51

Which area of the facial skeleton suffers from most bone loss?

1. Nose
2. Chin
3. Cheeks
4. Eyes

03:32

What is the term we use for the word 'fat'

1. Lard
2. Adipose
3. Chubby
4. Overweight

05:17

Explain the difference between collagen and elastin

06:12

Explain the differences between young and mature skin

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