Unfortunately our skin starts to age before most of us realize it. Of course, the earlier we start preventing skin aging the better. And prevention is much easier and less expensive than treatment. So the sooner we can identify and see the signs of skin aging, the more we can do to prevent it and slow it down. But what are the starting signs, well we’ve got the answers…
When Does Our Skin Start Aging?
Most of us think that the first sign of skin aging are wrinkles. However, wrinkles tends to appear later in the skin aging process. There are other signs first.
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jason Emer:
“I find that dark spots and low facial volume is what people start to see before anything else…A lot of people in their 20s come in saying they are noticing dark circles and hollow skin under the eyes and folds around the mouth.”
Yes you read that right, in your 20s your skin can start to show signs of skin aging.
Signs of Skin Aging
As Dr. Emer mentions above, the early signs of skin aging are dark spots, discoloration, and fine lines.
There will also be small changes in your skin laxity and volume. If that’s a little confusing, I know it was to me, what that essentialy means is that your skin becomes looser. And think of losing facial volume overtime like a full grape shrinking into a wrinkled raisin.
So, if you are seeing these things happen on your skin, now would be a good time to start an anti-aging routine.
Sunscreen is Anti-Aging
What kind of anti-aging routine should you use? Well, it’s not too hard or expensive. You see, the sun is the #1 culprit when it comes to skin aging. And the effects of sun damage are cumulative so the earlier you start your anti-aging routine the better. Definitely in your 20s.
That’s why one of the most important and fundamental pieces of any anti-aging routine is a broad spectrum sunscreen or other SPF product like an SPF moisturizer.
And sunblock isn’t just for the summer. In fact Cancer Council Australia found that one out of two sunburns occur during everyday outdoor activities. So even just walking the dog or walking to the local grocery store you can get sun damage – and that adds up over time.
Even if you don’t get out much you still are exposed to the sun inside as most glass windows only block UVB rays but not UVA rays. Because UVA rays can cause of skin aging, it’s important to get protection from them too. That’s why you want an SPF product that says “broad spectrum” on the label. It means you’ll get UVB (what SPF measures) and UVA (broad spectrum) protection.
So reach for that SPF every morning.
Anti-Aging Smarts
Yes skin aging happens for everyone but there are ways to slow down the process with the right info and tools about it.
So for even more anti-aging secrets and tips check out our Anti-Aging blog series.
