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<\/p>\nAll too often, we\u2019re told that aging is the worst thing that\u2019ll ever happen to us.<\/p>\n
In an appearance-driven society, it\u2019s understandable if the thought of having \u201cmature skin\u201d makes you tense. But we\u2019re here to remind you that aging is not<\/em> a bad thing, and that you can look<\/em> and feel<\/em> beautiful at any age.<\/p>\n The natural transition to mature skin involves a variety of factors, many of which come down to time. Others are worsened (or completely caused) by lifestyle habits. We tend to categorize these forms of aging into two forms: natural aging and premature aging.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Natural aging involves certain cells and tissues decreasing and dying over time. For instance, collagen production slows down in everyone eventually. Meanwhile, the number of pigment-containing cells in our body (a.k.a. melanocytes) decrease, leading to skin that appears more translucent.<\/p>\n Additionally, the epidermal layer becomes thinner over time, blood vessels become more fragile, and sebaceous glands produce less oil as you age.<\/p>\n In the case of natural aging, there is no way to stop the process, but there are ways in which we can care for ourselves so that our skin can age gracefully.<\/p>\n When we talk about premature aging, we\u2019re talking about aging caused by instances that disrupt the natural aging process. Of course, premature aging can mean that your skin already appears to age too early, but it can also make a huge impact on the way you look 20 years from now.<\/p>\n More often than not, these signs of premature aging are things we can prevent. Two of the biggest causes of premature aging are sun exposure and smoking.<\/p>\n We all know that smoking is bad for you. Not only can it do serious damage to your lungs, but tobacco smoke can also prematurely age the skin<\/a>. Nicotine narrows the blood vessels, making it harder for oxygen and nutrients to travel through, while collagen and elastin production are severely disrupted. As a result, deep wrinkles can appear quickly.<\/p>\n As for sun exposure, ultraviolet (UVA & UVB) rays cause what\u2019s known as photodamage or photoaging. UVA penetrates all layers of the skin<\/a>, risking damage to the collagen and elastin fibers, epidermal cells, and capillaries. UVB rays are especially intense, and can cause photoaging and precancerous cells (actinic keratoses) to form on the epidermis.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Luckily, many signs of premature aging can be prevented!<\/p>\n As for sun exposure, don\u2019t fret \u2013 you won\u2019t have to say goodbye to sunshine! Instead, take the precautions of applying sunscreen, wearing hats and long sleeves, and sticking to the shade when possible.<\/p>\n With healthy habits and certain products, premature aging can be prevented. But before we discuss strategy, let\u2019s see what aging looks<\/em> like.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hyperpigmentation <\/b> But that\u2019s not the only form of hyperpigmentation; hyperpigmentation can also develop along the chest in splotchy patches. This is generally due to inflammation caused by sun exposure and skin conditions like eczema.<\/p>\n Dryness and Itching <\/b> Wrinkles and Loose Skin <\/b> In many societies, aging is often talked about as a time of life that should be dreaded \u2013 but this couldn\u2019t be further from the truth!<\/p>\n Aging is something that\u2019s worth embracing, and part of that is recognizing your skin\u2019s needs as it changes. Here are a few ways to keep your skin looking (and feeling) its healthiest.<\/p>\n Collagen Support <\/b> Retinoids come in a variety of forms: from adapalene (a 0.1% retinoid gel) to prescription-strength tretinoin. But of all its forms, retinol is easily the most popular, and is gentle on mature skin types.<\/p>\n We recommend a stable retinol product that won\u2019t oxidize, and that\u2019s why we love our Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm<\/a>. This uses vegan retinol to help renew skin texture and even out the skin tone.<\/p>\n Hydration Hero <\/b>![\"UV](\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0648\/1955\/files\/UV_rays.jpg?v=1621228612\")
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As our skin ages, we can develop what are known as \u201cage spots\u201d or \u201csun spots\u201d on the face, hands, and forearms.<\/p>\n
Over time, the skin has a harder time retaining moisture. To name a few reasons: the skin becomes thinner, oil glands produce less frequently, and perspiration decreases.<\/p>\n
As mentioned earlier, collagen production in the skin goes down over time while elastin fibers break down. Because collagen and elastin play such a crucial role in the bounciness and elasticity of our skin, this can lead to loosening and sagging in the skin.<\/p>\n![\"Eye](\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0648\/1955\/files\/eye_serum.jpg?v=1621228612\")
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While a loss of collagen will happen to all of us, it is possible to buffer its effects; one of the best ways is by using a retinoid. Retinoids are stabilized forms of vitamin A, which is known to support collagen production and boost cell turnover, making it a favorite anti-aging ingredient.<\/p>\n
Since your skin naturally loses moisture over time, make sure your skin\u2019s getting regular moisture.<\/p>\n