Three Signs of Skin Aging and How to Fight Them

Aging skin can't be avoided in full, but noticing that a client's skin is getting older means you can do something about it. Here are the signs, from DerMend Mature Skin Solution, that mean the skin needs some TLC.

• Skin that looks thinner than usual. “The most frequent cause of thin, fragile skin is aging. With each passing year, the surface layer of your skin thins and loses some of its elasticity. The levels of collagen, elastin, and fatty tissue, which are important for making skin appear plump and youthful, begin to diminish in the deeper layers of the skin,” said Helen Torok, M.D. and dermatologist at Trillium Creek Dermatology (multiple locations, OH).

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen and moisturizer should be used daily to prevent the signs of aging. Tretinoin, a prescription version of vitamin A is also an option. It treats fine wrinkles and protects the skin against UV exposure. For those without a prescription, retinol is another version of vitamin A, and it is found in anti-aging products, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. 

Other ingredients that treat aging, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, include: citric acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, stabilized vitamin C, and tartaric acid. 

• Skin that bruises easily. It makes sense that thin skin will bruise more easily. Note: UV exposure will also lead to age spots. "If age spots run in your family, you should take extra caution to avoid excessive UV exposure," reads the American Academy of Dermatology's website. 

• Skin will feel more itchy than normal. “With aging, comes a loss of moisture. The cell membranes become more porous, contributing to dryness and the crepey look. Consequently, skin tends to become itchy and more sensitive,” said Torok. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, itchy skin can be treated in a range of ways, including moisturizing skin, taking oatmeal baths, and using “fragrance-free” lotions, soaps, and detergents to minimize irritation. 

 

RELATED: 

5 Signs It's Time to Consider Botox

Fight Aging With This Injectable Facial

How Different Hues are Used for Light Therapy