Skin begins to show signs of ageing in the mid 20’s. It is this stage of adulthood that collagen & elastin production slows down and skin begins to lack firmness and resilience. Cell turnover may also decrease slightly leaving your complexion dull and lifeless. There are also numerous external factors that cause ageing including sun exposure, smoking, repetitive facial expressions, poor nutrition and stress.
The natural treatment for ageing skin is antioxidants. Antioxidants include vitamins A, C & E, renowned for protecting the damaged cells. Antioxidants are available in cream, ointments, lotion and supplement form. Some people use cream that also contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) which works as a natural exfoliator, minimising dark spots and wrinkles. One very simple way to reduce the effects of ageing is to avoid sun exposure during the peak period of 10am to 3pm, and to wear SPF everyday.
Skin colour comes from a natural pigment called ‘melanin’. Melanin offers some amount of sun protection by absorbing the ultraviolet light. Hence, darker skin is less sensitive to the sun compared to fair skin.
In some cultures white skin is associated with status, belief and self image. As such many people try to whiten their skin, however, skin whitening can be harmful. Many skin whitening and skin bleaching products contain the toxic chemicals such as Hydroquinone and Mercury. After using these types of products, the skin becomes extremely sensitive to sunburn and eventually may develop melasma.
There are natural ways of lightening skin tone such as using melanin-inhibiting ingredients along with sunscreen and a prescription retinoid (Vitamin A). In addition, regularly exfoliating to shed dead skin cells makes skin appear brighter and healthier.
