Aging is inevitable. As we get older, our body's natural aging processes kick in, causing the skin to sag and create fine lines and wrinkles. This is a fact of life. But did you know that time is only 10% of skin changes? The remaining 90% are caused by external influences that accelerate the aging process. Read on to learn more about three causes of environmental aging and how you can protect your polluted skin from external damage.
Skin aging is caused by two different processes: intrinsic and extrinsic aging.
Own aging
Intrinsic aging is the natural and continuous aging process that slows down cellular and biological functions. Over time, the skin's strong, fibrous and elastic matrix weakens, inhibits skin cell turnover and contributes to the breakdown of hyaluronic acid, elastin and collagen. When these essential compounds wear off, the skin loses the strength and resilience associated with a healthy and youthful complexion.
Extrinsic aging
While intrinsic aging is inevitable, extrinsic aging is more easily avoidable. It is caused by a number of external factors that accelerate the aging process, including lifestyle choices such as smoking, alcohol use, and sedentary lifestyle, as well as environmental stressors such as pollution, blue light radiation, and UV exposure. These sources expose the skin to free radicals and oxidative stress that contribute to inflammation – a process in which chronic inflammation from external stressors causes the skin to age prematurely.
There are three main environmental factors that contribute to premature aging: pollution, blue light, and UV exposure. Here's a closer look at each one.
pollution
One of the biggest threats to healthy and youthful skin is air pollution. City life puts us in direct contact with particulate matter (PM), a complex mixture of harmful contaminants that destroy our complexions. There is increasing evidence of a link between long-term PM exposure and premature aging. In fact, studies have shown that higher levels of PM exposure are associated with higher numbers of dark spots and more pronounced nasolabial folds (smile lines).
How does this happen? Well, these tiny particles expose the skin to free radicals that actively break down hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin. When these are weakened, they lose the ability to keep the skin hydrated, firm, and elastic. Without a strong and secure structure, the skin loses its density and elasticity. it begins to loosen and sag, and fine lines and wrinkles set in.
Blue light
With the advent of new technologies, blue light has become another factor to consider when it comes to skin aging. Blue light comes from many sources, including the sun, our cell phones, computers, televisions, and even lightbulbs. According to Eminence Organics International Trainer Brian GoodwinWe are typically exposed to blue light for 13 hours a day. Over time, this daily exposure increases and poses a serious threat to skin health.
The short wavelength of blue light is associated with a higher energy output and a greater potential for damage. In 2010, research by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found more pigment, redness, and swelling in skin exposed to blue sunlight than in skin exposed to similar UVA rays. Not only does blue light trigger inflammation and redness, it also stimulates free radical production (which we know are the main causes of premature aging).
UV exposure
Sun exposure may play the biggest role in aging our skin. The sun has several types of rays (including blue light), but the most worrying ones are UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeply into the layers of the skin and expose otherwise healthy skin to harmful free radicals. UVB rays, on the other hand, only penetrate the outermost layer of the skin, where they interact with melanocytes (the cells that are responsible for skin pigmentation). Melanocytes are your first line of defense against sun damage. When they are exposed to the sun, they release melanin. This protective pigment absorbs UV rays and protects the deeper layers of the skin from sun damage. However, overexposure can lead to overproduction of melanin, which shows up as dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Minimizing exposure and adjusting your lifestyle habits are your best defense against the aging effects of environmental stressors. However, you can also customize your skin care regimen to provide extra protection and keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.
Skin care routine
In this In the mix video, Eminence Organics leads the skin care trainer Natalie Pergar shares the best skin care routine to protect your skin from drying out from environmental stressors.
(embed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxXWvjOUQwI (/ embed)
Ingredients that replenish and protect
You can improve the health of your skin with additional antioxidant-rich ingredients that will plump your skin and protect it from the drying effects of pollution and sun damage.
Vitamin C is an important antioxidant ingredient that will keep your skin looking glowing, healthy and glowing! Integrate vitamin C into your daily skin care ritual with our Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Serum. It contains ingredients like avocado, hyaluronic acid, botanical ferulic acid, and citrus oils that provide antioxidant properties and an intense hydration that help the skin look firm and plump. Vitamin C from lime juice strengthens and balances the skin. You can try a product like the Lime Refresh Tonique if you're looking for an antioxidant-rich toner that will help the skin look fresher and more balanced.
Maybe you have mature skin? You'll love the Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Masque, a cream-gel formula fortified with powerful vitamin C and antioxidants for smooth and firm skin. This nutrient-rich mask is designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Birch water, snow mushroom and reishi mushroom are other ingredients that provide essential moisture and nutrients and minimize the visible signs of aging from pollution, blue light and UV rays.
Birch water is a powerful juice that is contained in our birch water cleansing essence. Natalie calls it "nature's sports drink" for its beneficial mixture of electrolytes, flavonoids, amino acids, proteins, enzymes and vitamins. Not sure how to add a facial essence to your skincare routine? This article provides guidance on what an essence is.
Adaptogens are another must-have. These mushrooms, plants and herbs have roots in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, where they have been used for thousands of years for their restorative and balancing properties. Perhaps the most famous adaptogen is the Reishi mushroom. Also known as the "Mushroom of Immortality", this mushroom contains over 400 bioactive compounds with rejuvenating properties. You can find reishi mushrooms and snow mushrooms (another powerful adaptogen) in the Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque.
Is your skin showing the effects of aging on the environment? Visit an Eminence Organics Spa Affiliate near you for a bespoke routine to protect your complexion.
This post was originally published in March 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and completeness.