As we age, the structure and function of our skin changes both from intrinsic and extrinsic causes. These changes lead to dissatisfaction with wrinkles, dryness, sagginess, enlarged pores, and discolorations.
Here is what is happening intrinsically with aging. In children, the epidermis is thinner. The cells are also well organized, since cell turnover (natural exfoliation) is functioning at an optimum level. Children also enjoy a nice plump and thick dermis and hypodermis, giving them smooth, supple skin. As we age, this all changes. The epidermis becomes thicker with decreased cell turnover, and our dermis and hypodermis become thinner and less supported with loss of collagen, elastin and fat.
In addition:
Extrinsically, our skin becomes affected from sun exposure and other environmental stressors like pollution. These factors contribute to the collagen breakdown, sagging skin along with textural changes and discolorations. Some examples are as follows:
So, how do you reverse and prevent some of the aging changes? Great skincare is the first and most important daily step. Great skincare should be all about restoring skin function to as close as possible to what it was in childhood. Quality skincare products that support the skin should be a part of any skincare regime. Everyone’s skin, no matter your skin type, needs support in all the following categories:
Exfoliation: Your skin’s natural exfoliation process slows dramatically with age and shows up as dull, dry skin and clogged pores. Use alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic and lactic acid to help. Vitamin A Retinaldehyde also aids in the increase of natural exfoliation. Never use abrasives on the skin unless performed by a professional for exfoliation. Add our Refreshing Wash, Rejuvenating Swipes and our Vital A Serum to gently remove dead skin cells to reveal smooth and radiant skin.
Collagen Restoration: Wrinkles tend to be a motivator for many to start taking care of their skin. If you want to prevent and reverse wrinkles, then restoring and maintaining a healthy collagen layer is a must. Powerhouse ingredients that help to stimulate collagen production are Vitamin A Retinaldehyde, Vitamin C, Peptides and growth factors. Again, our Vital C, Vital A and Bio Peptide Serums work double duty with not only protecting your skin but also aiding in collagen restoration.
Protection: Wear SPF containing zinc oxide daily to face, neck, chest and hands. These areas tend to age the most rapidly with sun exposure. My favorite sun screens are EltaMD SPF 41 and ColoreScience. Protect from free radical damage from pollution and sun exposure with the potent antioxidants Vitamin C, Vitamin A and prickly pear extract. These can be found in our Vital C Serum, our C Radiance Moisturizer, our Vital A and Bio Peptide Serum. I blend these serums together both morning and night (Vital A only at night) to protect and nourish my skin deeply.
Aging is inevitable but having aged skin is a choice. Go to MikelKristi.comor skincareMK.com today to start your journey to more youthful skin.
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Have you ever tried new skincare products and after using them for a week or two, your skin starts to get rashy or you start having breakouts? If you’re like me, you probably think, Oh My Gosh, what in the heck is going on?