You always want to put your best foot forward. Looking your best is a constantly evolving process, especially as we get older. The signs of aging often show up on our face first. Our skin becomes thinner and tends to sag and wrinkle. During the hot summer months in Richmond, over exposure to the sun is a real problem, for many people. Unfortunately, sun exposure accelerates the skins again process. It is important to protect yourself from the damaging sun’s UV rays. Sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and generally staying out of too much direct sunlight are all good tactics.
Signs of Aging Skin
In order to look your best, you may need to address any treatable skin conditions you may have. Luckily, there are treatments available, some more aggressive than others.
- Age spots, also sometimes called liver spots are caused primarily by sun damage or other UV exposure, such as tanning lamps. The damage is done at the top layers of the skin. Any treatment must penetrate that layer of skin, in order to be effective. Topical treatments are often the first option, either over the counter or prescribed medications can be helpful in many cases. For more resistant spots chemical peels and dermabrasion are effective treatments. Another option is laser therapy.
- Dark under eye circles have a number of causes. Sometimes they are caused by over-exposure to UV rays. Other causes are due to dehydration or lack of circulation. Also, as we age, our skin gets thinner and we become more translucent. Blood vessels under the eyes are more visible, because of the thinning under eye skin, which causes the appearance of dark under eye circles. Topical treatments, injections and even laser surgery are all treatment options for dark circles under the eyes.
- We also lose elasticity in our skin, as we age. This causes some people to suffer from a condition called elastosis. Elastosis, gives the skin a leathery appearance. People who spend a great deal of time outdoors, in the elements often show signs of this skin condition. Smoking can exacerbate this condition. Collagen treatments can help, if the condition is diagnosed early enough. Dermal implants such as silicone, is a more aggressive treatment option.
Slowing Down the Aging Process
As we age, it is inevitable that our skin will show the signs. However, things like diet, limiting sun exposure and avoiding irritants like cigarette smoke can slow down the aging process. When necessary, there are skin treatments to reverse the effects of aging on the skin. The earlier the problem is addressed, the more successful the treatments are for most people.