While wrinkles are a natural and normal part of the ageing process, it’s no secret that a lot of us would prefer to keep them at bay for a little while longer. There are many ways to slow down the formation of fine lines and lifestyle changes that can be made to maintain the skins integrity and longevity, we’ve created a check list to keep your skin as plump and youthful for as long as possible. But first let’s explain why our skin starts to crease as we age.

WHY DO WRINKLES APPEAR?

As we age our cell turnover gradually slows down and the ability to renew themselves diminishes resulting in collagen (the major structural proteins in the skin) and elastin (the protein which causes skin to stretch) production to decrease. Without the support of these two fibres the skin is left to wrinkle and sag over time.

ADDITIONAL FACTORS THAT CAN PLAY A ROLE IN THE ACCELERATION OF WRINKLES:

Free Radicals such as pollution, UV Rays and cigarette smoke can further damage cells

Lack of hydration the body will begin to pull moisture from the skin when it doesn’t get enough water leaving it dry, dull, and flaky.

Poor diet can contribute to the deterioration of the skin, certain foods cause inflammation in the body, and this inflammation can cause more lines to appear on the the surface.

There are so many great treatments available to combat early signs of ageing that help reduce and slow the formation of these fine lines on the skin. Deeper creases may require a more intensive treatment plan that can be administered over time to allow for better results.

IN CLINIC TREATMENTS:

• Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure. It involves a handheld device that has a powerful vacuum which gently exfoliates the skin by sweeping microcrystals across the surface removing the top layer for younger skin to appear. This treatment is great to have regularly for fresher and smoother appearance to the skin and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, coarse skin, and sun damage. – Recommended every 1-2 weeks
• Skin needling is a natural way of stimulating collagen and elastin production which involves using a micro-needling device to create a controlled skin injury which opens your skin with tiny tears that heal and promote the production of new collagen and elastin improving the appearance of the skins texture. – Recommended 2-4-weeks apart
• PRP injections combine your own stem cells and epidermal growth factors from your blood that triggers collagen production and stimulates the body’s natural wound healing response leaving your skin revitalised and refreshed. – Recommended 2 weeks apart
• Anti-wrinkle injections are used to block the chemical signals that cause muscles to contract. The most common places to inject anti-wrinkle is in the forehead, frown lines (between the eyes) crow’s feet (squint lines around the corners of the eyes) A small dose is injected into the targeted muscles to minimise movement/contractions to keep the skin less wrinkled and appear smoother. – Results can last roughly around 3-4 months and can take affect after a few days of treatment.
• Dermal Fillers are usually filled with hyaluronic acid which is naturally found in the body and helps with hydration. Dermal fillers are used for deeper creases or loss of volume that comes with age. The filler is injected into the area to plump and smooth out the skin which gives an instant effect though patients can sometimes experience swelling and bruising for a short period of time after treatment.

Both injections are temporary and will need regular maintenance.

AT HOME PREVENTIONS:

• Stay hydrated: Water keeps your body hydrated and helps maintain your skin’s elasticity.
• Moisturise regularly: Prevents dryness, traps, and retains water in the skin.
• Use serums: Quick and fast absorbing boost of hydration to help fight the signs of ageing.
• Wear sunscreen: UV exposure accelerates skin cell damage.
• Eat foods filled with antioxidants: Antioxidants protect the skin by reducing and counteracting free radical damage by helping the skin repair itself and reducing inflammation.

Making healthy habits in your day-to-day life can make all the difference, much like the 80/20 diet rule you can treat your skin in a similar way – 80% from home 20% professional treatments to give you maximum benefits and long-lasting results.