The condition known as premature aging takes place when biological changes in the skin significantly exceed an individual's actual (passport) age. Lifestyle and environmental factors are usually the cause. The most common signs of premature aging are wrinkles, age spots, dryness and loss of skin tone. Cosmetic treatments and a healthy lifestyle can help stop and prevent further premature aging.

Understanding Our Skin

When we talk about skin that is showing the first signs of premature aging, let's first review its main characteristics.

• We know that the skin is made up of three layers: epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous fat. 
• The dermis layer consists of two main proteins, commonly called the "proteins of youth" - collagen and elastin.
• The fibers of these proteins are oriented in relation to each other in the form of a kind of network.
• Collagen fibers are larger, thicker and stronger than elastin fibers, which means that they provide the skin with different properties.
• Collagen provides the rigidity and turgor of the skin, while elastin ensures the skin's ability to stretch and return to its previous state (skin elasticity). 

Causes of Premature Skin Aging

Where do these two proteins come from? These proteins are produced in the skin by the high synthetic activity of special cells called fibroblasts, which constantly synthesize and release them into the intercellular space.

In addition to proteins, the dermis contains a gel-like substance in the intercellular space - low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HA) - which provides hydration and fullness to the skin due to its high water-binding capacity.

The synthesis activity and the population of fibroblasts decrease with age, resulting in a deficiency of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin.

A decrease in the synthesis of these components leads to premature skin aging. How can these deficiencies be addressed with cosmetic procedures and products?

Combating Premature Aging with Cosmetic Procedures and Products

Ingredients that Stimulate Collagen Production

Cosmetic products can actually stimulate collagen production. For example, active ingredients such as retinol and peptides work in a similar way: they stimulate the work of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production. With regular use of products containing these ingredients, the skin becomes firmer, more elastic and fresher.

Regular use of external antioxidants (e.g. a cream or serum containing vitamin C) also prevents the breakdown of collagen fibers.

Read More: Retinol Revolution: Clear, Radiant Skin with This Powerful Ingredient

A very effective cosmetic procedure in this regard is acid peeling. 

When the acid penetrates into the epidermis, it burns the damaged, old and keratinized tissues and at the same time stimulates high activity of regeneration, cell division and appearance of new structures. In addition, the chemical exfoliation of the stratum corneum promotes the accelerated production of endogenous collagen and elastin.

Today there are many creams and serums containing hyaluronic acid. How do you choose the one that will be most effective for you? 

Hyaluronic Acid Properties and Effects on Your Skin

It is a fact that HA can have different molecular weights and therefore different effects on your skin.

If we are talking about deep hydration of the skin and replenishment of hyaluronic acid in the dermal layer, then it is better to use a product with low molecular weight HA.

But if we are talking about age-related dry skin or dry skin type, then a product with high molecular weight HA will help replenish the moisture level in the upper epidermal layers of the skin, restore the skin's protective barrier properties and eliminate the feeling of tightness and dryness.

But for aging skin, it often makes sense to replenish hyaluronic acid at all levels. In this case, I recommend looking for serums and creams that contain a mixture of hyaluronic acids with different molecular weights. In this case, such a combination will give you a more comprehensive effect. 

What I Use in My Practice to Help You Fight Premature Aging

One of my favorite product lines for collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid replenishment is DDP's ICON TIME and FILLIFT. 

I use them frequently in my practice, recommend them to my clients, and get great results. In my practice, I recommend a number of anti-aging procedures to my clients. From the Fillift Facial treatment, which is a great alternative for treating sagging and aging skin, through the Advanced Facial treatment, which is specifically designed to increase hydration and prevent skin aging, to the Medical Grade Peel, which improves skin texture, reduces hyperpigmentation, and increases collagen production. 

You can call me for a free consultation or schedule an appointment for either procedure so we can determine which is best for you!