The changes that occur as we get older are both in appearance and in how we function. However, aging is not a process that occurs at the same rate in all individuals, although all people do age. The part of aging that occurs just because we are older is called intrinsic.

An example of an intrinsic aging that occurs in the tissue itself is the graying of hair. Hormonal changes, such as the change in the secretion of sebum in the skin, occurs because of reduced secretion of androgen hormones elsewhere in the body.

But there are several features of the aging process that are the product of external or extrinsic factors. Prevention is avoiding these extrinsic factors that may accelerate the aging process. And, of course, there are some treatments that we can have done, which will alter appearance.

Aging of the skin is called atrophy by doctors. Visual and microscopic changes appear with a decrease in the connective cells of the skin. Skin appears rougher, finely wrinkled, soft, and dry. The lower layer of the skin, the dermis, turns thinner. Veins and other structures in the skin can seem much more noticeable because of this alteration. Small, red blood vessels can appear in numbers. The skin can bruise easily, look fragile, and doesn't cure as readily. The skin has less elasticity, and is less firm, with sagging.

The color or pigmentation of the skin changes as we age. Discolorations show up as darker pigmented spots, on face, chest, hands, back, and legs. Studies have demonstrated that more than 50% of people over the age of 45 acquire these spots. And studies done in strongly pigmented people show that pigmentation augments with age in sun-exposed areas and afflicts men more than women.

Effects of Aging on Skin

Sebum secretion in the skin decreases, as do underarm secretions, resulting in less odor. Normal sweating in the rest of the skin also reduces. Nail growth starts to decrease early, after the age of 25. The sense of touch reduces, and this can result in an increase in the ability to bear pain. The immune system is less reactive, resulting in greater risk of chronic skin infection.

Prevention

At least for skin changes, retarding the aging process can be achieved by avoiding solar exposure and applying sun blocks. This process will also reduce the likelihood of acquiring a sun-related skin cancer. Importantly, smoking is as injurious to skin as the sun is. Smokers face a five-fold (500%) greater risk of dermal abnormalities at any given age than do non-smokers. Smoking cessation is thus an important part of looking younger.

It is also important to nourish your skin with antioxidants applied topically. Nowdays, there are skin care ingredients that act as antioxidants and can help to reduce the damage that oxidation causes to our skin.