Science behind Aging
Understanding the Aging Process and Maintaining Youthful Facial Looks
Understanding the Changes in Our Facial Looks as We Age
Have you noticed how your facial looks are changing as you age? A quick look in your mirror shows you how you have aged so far.
This is an aging process that we all go through while growing up, showing the effects more on our faces than other parts of the body.
As time goes by, our faces go through a natural aging process that brings about various changes in our appearance. The youthful looks on our faces reflect our health in general.
Now, why does this occur? Let’s learn this first.
Studies show that these facial changes while aging can be due to a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. Yet again, sometimes we look either younger or older depending upon the circumstances our health is going through.
I have recently purchased a smart scale that showed my biological age to be 70 years even though I am still running 67 years [chronological age]. A few months back I wrote an article about this on my own website. You can read it here-
In this article, we will explore the different aspects that contribute to the aging of our facial looks and delve into the options available to maintain a youthful appearance.
The Factors Behind Aging Facial Looks
Before we delve into the solutions, it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to the aging of our facial looks.
While some of these factors are beyond our control, others can be managed or minimized to a certain extent.
Just a few days back, one of patient talking to me about a health camp she wishes to do in my clinic asked me- “Doc, why are you looking so tired?”
I casually replied, “I am not tired; I am just getting older”. The fact is, as I mentioned earlier, that I am 67 years old, and I notice these changes almost every day as I look into the mirror. And the query by this lady had got me thinking and doing research that made me write this article.
The Science behind Aging
So, what’s the science behind aging? Let’s see what research says and see if we have got any options to look younger, especially our facial features and looks. I have come across some great tips that I would like to share with you.
As I write this article, I keep on wondering why I did not use these simple tips earlier that give out a youthful look to our face. But I am sure this article will help all my readers have an option of looking younger naturally as they are getting older.
1. Natural Aging Process
One of the primary factors behind the changes in our facial looks is the natural aging process.
As we age, our skin gradually loses its elasticity and firmness, leading to the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.
The production of collagen and elastin, which are responsible for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity, decreases over time.
2. Sun Exposure
Excessive sun exposure can accelerate the aging process and cause premature aging of the skin.
The harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can damage the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to the formation of wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone.
3. Lifestyle Choices
Our lifestyle choices play a significant role in the aging process of our facial looks.
Factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and inadequate sleep can contribute to the development of wrinkles, dull skin, and other signs of aging.
Additionally, habits like excessive alcohol consumption and stress can also impact the health and appearance of our skin.
4. Facial Expressions
Repetitive facial expressions, such as frowning, squinting, or raising eyebrows, can lead to the formation of lines and wrinkles over time.
These lines, known as dynamic wrinkles, become more prominent as the skin loses its elasticity.
Maintaining Youthful Facial Looks Naturally
While we cannot completely halt the aging process, there are several natural ways to maintain a youthful appearance and minimize the effects of aging on our facial looks. Let’s explore some of these options:
1. Proper Skincare Routine
A consistent and effective skincare routine is essential for maintaining youthful facial looks.
This includes cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting the skin from sun damage.
Using natural products that contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C and retinol, can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture. Some of these natural products are-
- Bakuchiol: Derived from the leaves and seeds of the babchi plant, bakuchiol functions similarly to retinol by stimulating collagen and elastin production. It’s also rich in antioxidants (including vitamins C and E) and has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Rosehip Oil: Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin A, which can be converted into retinol in the skin. It’s effective for skin rejuvenation and provides hydration and skin radiance.
- Niacinamide or Vitamin B3- While not a direct retinol alternative, niacinamide (vitamin B3) offers similar benefits. It helps improve skin texture, reduce redness, and enhance the skin’s barrier function.
These natural alternatives provide similar benefits to retinol without some of the potential side effects.
Here I would like to advise you to do a patch-test for any new products you would like to use and consult with a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin.
2. Healthy Diet
What we eat can significantly impact the health and appearance of our skin.
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides essential nutrients and antioxidants that promote healthy skin.
Consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and nuts, can also help maintain skin elasticity.
3. Hydration
Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining youthful facial looks. Drinking an adequate amount of water [about 6 to 10 glasses] daily helps keep the skin hydrated, plump, and supple.
It also aids in flushing out toxins from the body, which can contribute to skin aging.
Now, here’s my question- are you having sufficient fluids daily? If not, it’s time you did!
4. Sun Protection
Protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun is vital in maintaining a youthful appearance. Applying sunscreen lotion available commercially is one option.
But is there a natural way to do it? Yes, this is how you can do it-
Use a Coconut Oil-Based Sunscreen:
Ingredients:
- 1 oz (28 g) coconut oil
- 0.8 oz (23 g) shea butter
- 0.1 oz (3 g) jojoba, sesame, or sunflower oil
- 0.1 oz (3 g) vitamin E oil
How to make:
1. In a small bowl or measuring cup, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and vitamin E oil together (you can use a microwave or a double boiler).
2. Add the melted oils to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
3. Optionally, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for fragrance.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small container or jar with a lid.
Coconut oil has a natural SPF of around 4–6, so this sunscreen provides minimal protection.
Use it as an alternative or as a moisturizer with some sun-blocking properties. So, go ahead and get it done!
Other alternatives:
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours can help prevent premature aging caused by sun exposure.
5. Facial Exercises
Facial exercises can help tone the muscles in the face and reduce the appearance of sagging skin. These exercises target specific areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and forehead, helping to maintain a more youthful and lifted appearance.
Exploring Artificial Options for Maintaining Facial Looks
Much as I may recommend natural ways to improve our facial looks, if they don't work you have to look out for alternatives, which I advise using them with a pinch of salt.
In some cases, natural methods may not provide the desired results or may not be sufficient to address certain signs of aging.
In such situations, there are various artificial options available to maintain facial looks.
It’s important to note that these options should be approached with caution and after consulting with a qualified professional.
Here are a few commonly sought-after options:
1. Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injectable substances that help restore volume and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines.
They are commonly used to plump up areas such as the cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds.
Dermal fillers can provide immediate results, but they are temporary and require regular maintenance.
2. Botox
Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a popular non-surgical treatment that temporarily reduces the appearance of wrinkles by relaxing the underlying muscles.
It is commonly used to treat dynamic wrinkles, such as forehead lines and crow’s feet.
Like dermal fillers, the effects of Botox are temporary and require repeat treatments.
3. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates [removes] the outer layer and stimulates the growth of new, healthier skin.
This can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and even out skin tone.
Chemical peels can vary in intensity, from mild to deep, depending on the desired results.
4. Laser Treatments
Laser treatments use focused beams of light to target specific skin concerns, such as wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone.
These treatments can stimulate collagen production, tighten the skin, and improve overall skin texture.
Laser treatments may require multiple sessions for optimal results.
5. Surgical Procedures
For more significant facial rejuvenation, surgical procedures such as facelifts, brow lifts, and eyelid surgery may be considered.
These procedures aim to lift and tighten sagging skin, smooth out wrinkles, and restore a more youthful facial appearance.
Surgical procedures are invasive and carry certain risks, so careful consideration and consultation with a qualified surgeon are essential.
Conclusion
As we age, our facial looks naturally undergo changes due to various factors.
While we cannot completely reverse the aging process, there are several ways to maintain a youthful appearance.
Adopting a proper skincare routine, following a healthy lifestyle, protecting the skin from sun damage, and considering natural options such as facial exercises can all contribute to maintaining youthful facial looks.
In cases where natural methods may not be sufficient, artificial options like dermal fillers, Botox, chemical peels, laser treatments, or surgical procedures can be considered, but with caution and professional guidance.
Remember, embracing the aging process and taking care of our overall well-being are key to looking and feeling our best at any age.
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and found it useful. Do read my other articles on Illumination-Curated and other articles written by Dr Mehmet Yildiz, the founder of this publication.
Adios.
