Skin Care Through the Ages
Did you know that our skin is one of our body’s largest organs (an organ is a part of the body that has a specific function). Depending on body size and mass, it weighs between 3.5 and 10 kilos (7.5 and 22 pounds) and is 1.5 to 2 m2 in size.
Our skin has several important functions including protecting our body from germs, heat, cold, and dampness, helping regulate body temperature and providing us with sensory information.
The outermost layer of skin which you can see is called the epidermis. It is mainly made up of dead cells (keratinocytes) that are firmly stuck together. It constantly renews itself: New cells are made in the lower layers of the epidermis. These move to the surface within four weeks, where they harden and are then shed. This constant renewal serves to replace the cells that are lost and fall to the ground when the skin is rubbed.
Under the epidermis and firmly stuck to it, lies the middle layer of skin, the dermis. It is made up of a dense network of tough, elastic collagen fibers. These make the skin strong and robust, while at the same time stretchy. If skin is stretched a lot – for instance the skin covering a pregnant woman’s belly – the dermis might tear. The torn dermis can be seen as light lines (stretch marks).
The deepest layer is called the subcutis and is made up mostly of fat and connective tissue. This layer can serve as a shock absorber for the body, protecting bones and joints from blows or bumps. It also serves as insulation and produces many hormones. Vitamin D is produced in this layer when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
Clearly, our skin’s health is important to our well-being and it is important to care for it throughout our lives.
Just from looking at someone’s skin, you can get impressions of a person’s age and general health.
In the 20’s, the skin is still producing a good amount of oil (sebum) and break outs may be a problem. To clean the skin, look for a oil free, gel based cleanser with salicylic acid.
Any lotion used on the face should be oil free also and contain salicylic acid.
In the 30’s brown spots and fine lines may start to appear. Use gentle cleansing washes that contain moisturizing ingredients.
By the 40’s wrinkles have set in as well as perhaps, some age spots. The skin is starting to lose some tone and texture. Cleansers should have low concentrations of exfoliating acids. Use peptide packed moisturizers which will help to even out pigment and increase collagen.
In the 50’s, hormonal changes can lead to dehydrated, thinner and more fragile skin.
This fragility can be caused by sun damage and many older women struggle to protect their skin as it can be easily cut or bruised, often without the woman remembering how or when she was injured. Sun protection and emollients, especially those that contain lactic acid, and even physical protection, such as wearing hats or making an effort to stay out of the sun can help safeguard older women’s skin.
The estheticians at Spa Theology are experts at skin care. In addition to offering superb facial treatments, they can offer advice on care and products that will have your skin felooking healthy and beautiful at any age. Book a facial at Spa Theology for a customized experience today!