As soon as we are born, our skin begins to go through a process of regular change but we don’t typically think of it as aging until it starts to show dullness, spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and a loose texture. What causes these can be complex and varies from person to person according to your genetics and your exposome (lifestyle and environment).

As early of an age as our 20s, our unhealthy lifestyle habits, environmental damage, and constant UV exposure begins compromising skins structural integrity. Our cell defence in the face starts to weaken as we are exposed to free radicals and our natural ability to fight off skin damage declines. Cell renewal and turnover rates also naturally start to slow, diminishing skin radiance.

In our 30s, the amounts of collagen (which keeps skin firm) and elastin (which keeps skin bouncing back) begin to decline, often resulting in fine lines and wrinkles. Cell renewal and turnover continues to decline leading to a duller complexion and an uneven skin tone. Some cells can even become inactive, essentially turning into ‘zombies’, giving rise to damaging, inflammatory toxins that will further accelerate the appearance of skin ageing.

By our 40s, skin appears thinner and its naturally protective barrier lipids are not as pronounced, dehydration can also become an issue. Depending on hormonal activity (not just your sex hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. But also stress-related hormones including adrenalin, corticosterone-releasing hormone, cortisol and adrenal androgens), unusual activity may appear in skin from uneven skin tone to adult acne. More prominent signs of aging can also appear, such as dark spots, pigmentation and significant dullness as well as more defined fine lines, wrinkles and skin sagging.

From our 50s onwards, our barrier lipid layer significantly lessens, leading to less efficient moisture retention and more potential for sensitivity and dehydration. Chronic stress and inflammation, both inside and outside the body, delays skin recovery leading to lasting marks and longer healing times. By now, skin can show prominent wrinkles, fine lines and discolouration.