Understanding how the skin functions as a whole will explain why some topical (on the skin) interventions work, and others don’t. The intent of any good skincare regimen should be on bringing the skin’s natural function back to optimum performance, much like it was back in your younger years. It is important NOT to just apply a topical “Band-Aid” on skin issues with moisturizers or organic oils. You need to get your skin back to a healthier state of functioning on all levels by feeding it the right nutrients.
Skin Structure
There are three distinct layers to the skin, each with its own function and architecture. Moving from most superficial to deepest:
- The Epidermis
- The Dermis
- The Hypodermis (or subcutaneous fat layer)
It’s important to understand the structure of the skin so you can better understand how and why great skincare and skincare products work, and also why it’s important to go for deeper interventions when the time is right.
The Epidermis & Exfoliation
For a healthy epidermis, natural exfoliation is the name of the game. As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process becomes slow and inefficient. This leads to dull, dry, sensitive skin, as well as clogged pores. As this outer layer of skin thickens, the skin’s natural oils and moisturizing factors are not able to hydrate the surface adequately. This is why daily gentle exfoliation is a very important step in any highly effective skincare regimen.
With proper exfoliation and natural cell turnover, your skin will start to regain access to those natural oils and moisturizing factors, thus revealing a more youthful, healthy glow. Look for ingredients like Retinaldehyde Vitamin A, Niacinamide Vitamin B3, and alphahydroxy acids like glycolic and lactic acid to use daily for increased natural exfoliation. Use our Mikel Kristi Vital A Serum nightly and our Rejuvenating Swipes 2-3 times per week.
The Dermis & Collagen
The dermis is all about collagen. Collagen is a fibrous protein found in bone, muscle, skin, and tendons. It is the most abundant protein in the skin. Collagen is vital for the skin’s integrity, firmness, elasticity and hydration. As we age, the body’s ability to grow collagen slows down. This decrease in collagen production becomes apparent with the emergence of larger pores, increased wrinkling, and sagging in the skin. A bonus to this “trinity of aging” is that the skin will thin and become more fragile as well. If you are over 35 and not caring for your dermis, then your collagen layer is disintegrating daily. The great news is that collagen production can be stimulated with the right topical products and procedures! Powerhouse ingredients that can help restore a healthy dermis are Retinaldehyde Vitamin A, Peptides, Vitamin C and growth factors. Use our Mikel Kristi Vital A Serum nightly along with our Bio Peptide serum and Vital C Serum every morning.
The Hypo-dermis & Volume Loss
The deepest layer of the skin, the hypo-dermis, is the main area of fat accumulation on the body. This fat acts as a filler for the face, so when you lose weight (especially when you are older), you will see the facial skin sag more. When we lose our “baby fat” in our early 20s, this is an early sign of aging. Unfortunately, at this time, there are no topical products that can protect this layer of skin from aging.
For an in depth look at how your skin functions, and how to help sinking and sagging skin, you can read my book, Your Beauty Advocate.
Go to YourBeautyAdvocate.com to download your complimentary 30 Day Skincare Challenge. You’ll also find information on ordering and downloading your copy of the book today. Your Beauty Advocate includes some fantastic, free bonuses that you won’t want to miss!
Your Beauty Advocate,
Christy
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