Aging is a part of life whether we like it or not. But did you know there are two different types of aging?
There’s the obvious, which we call extrinsic aging. Extrinsic aging requires factors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, lifestyle, and pollution to cause deep wrinkling and photo damage. The second, and not so obvious is what we call intrinsic aging. Intrinsic aging is governed by our own body’s biological clock, and is accompanied by dryness, fine wrinkling and paleness. Many factors are involved in intrinsic skin aging like genetic mutations, increased inflammatory signals, decreased lipid production, and decreased hormone levels. Here are a few of the factors that help and hurt our aging process.
1. Estrogen - In the skin, estrogen affects your skin’s thickness, wrinkle formation and moisture. Estrogens can increase glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) such as Hyaluronic Acid, to maintain fluid balance and structural integrity. They can also increase collagen production in the skin, which maintains epidermal thickness and allows the skin to remain plump, hydrated and wrinkle-free. In short, estrogen keeps the skin looking youthful.
2. Testosterone - The sight of coarser hair and oily skin, are generally an onset for showing signs of skin aging. This is all thanks to the testosterone hormone that lives in our bodies. Since androgen, another hormone, and testosterone, are involved in skin sebum production, females may experience increased oiliness and quite possibly, adult acne when hormones become unbalanced during menstruation or menopause.
3. Thyroid - The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland situated in front of the voice box. The thyroid gland makes two thyroid hormones which affects your metabolism, brain development, breathing, body temperature, muscle strength, bone health, skin dryness, menstrual cycles, weight and cholesterol levels. Again, balance is key when it comes to these hormones. If you experience hyperthyroidism, your skin skin can become warm, sweaty and flushed. If you experience hypothyroidism, your skin becomes dry, coarse, thick and even sweating is decreased.
So, how do we help the inevitable? While aging is bound to happen, we can use a few products to ease the process.
Hot flashes - To battle the fires brought on by hot flashes and increased inflammation, look for anti-inflammatory ingredients like Avena Sativa Extracts, Chamomile and Bisabolol. Additionally, you can look for peptides that control neurogenic inflammation. Your dehydrated skin can benefit greatly from essential fatty acids, phytosterols and ceramides. Of course, during hot flashes, we may want to constrict the capillaries with topical caffeine and avoid lifestyle trigger factors such as heat, sun and alcohol.
Skin rejuvenation - Antioxidants can be an amazing powerhouse of rejuvenation. Ingredients such as Superoxide Dismutase, Gingko Biloba, and White and Green Tea extracts to further protect the skin from oxidative damage.
Hydration - Rosewood and Jasmine can aid in providing intense hydration, while Carrot Seed, Argan and Rosehip Oils aid in boosting antioxidants, improving elasticity, and reinforce the epidermal lipid barrier. These are all great treatment options with the added bonus of providing aromatherapy during this particularly stressful time.
One example of a daily product that will help you immensely id our Tamanu + Rosehip facial soap. This simple switch from your usual routine is packed with hydrating ingredients to leave your skin happy, healthy, and youthful.
Shop the rest of our skincare collection here to help you and your skin feel younger than ever!