The skin plays a vital role in the social and visual experience, as it can tell an individual's age and reflect the consequences of ageing. Everyone possesses a unique genetic blueprint and lifestyle, which profoundly affect the skin's physiological functions. By middle age, these influences may contribute to a staggering 50% decline in skin vitality.
As the skin ages, intricate biological changes unfold, including the depletion of fibrous tissue, decelerated cellular renewal, and diminished vascular and glandular networks. The skin's barrier function, crucial for hydration and protection, falters. Subcutaneous tissue undergoes flattening, particularly in facial, hand, and foot regions.
A suntan serves as evidence of skin damage, indicating the skin's effort to shield itself from further harm. UVA radiation, constituting most of total UVR (90–95%), penetrates deeply into the epidermis and dermis, triggering oxidative stress that prompts post-UV inflammation and melanin production, resulting in hyperpigmentation. Despite being mistakenly linked with health and vitality, this "tanned" appearance is a consequence of oxidative stress.
Although UVB radiation is a small portion of UVR (about 5%), it is highly detrimental to DNA and epidermal keratinocytes, often leading to sunburn and non-melanoma skin cancer. While UV-B radiation stimulates vitamin D synthesis in the skin, achieving optimal vitamin D levels solely through sun exposure is not advisable due to the detrimental effects of excessive sun exposure.
Our skin constantly changes due to internal and external factors, and one of the most significant contributors to ageing is the accumulation of senescent cells, also known as zombie cells. These cells have stopped dividing but remain active, releasing inflammatory proteins that break down collagen and elastin, leading to visible signs of ageing.
Zombie cells compromise skin function and appearance in several ways:
Skin Renewal’s holistic skincare strategy is built on four key pillars:
The human skin hosts various microorganisms collectively known as the skin microbiota. This microbiota forms a complex interplay with the epidermis cells, the skin's outermost layer. Beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria have effectively treated certain infections, enhanced immunity, and reduced skin inflammation.
Oral intake of pre-and probiotics has been shown in vivo to rebalance the skin microbiota and enhance skin barrier function. Furthermore, oral probiotics bolster cellular antioxidant capacity and mitigate inflammation.
In addition to these benefits, probiotics are crucial in neutralizing toxic byproducts, protecting the intestinal lining, enhancing nutrient bioavailability, and strengthening the intestinal barrier against harmful microbes that could negatively impact skin health.
To prevent accelerated skin ageing, one can employ a multifaceted approach. This includes utilising topical interventions enriched with scientifically advanced ingredients like growth factors, peptides, and retinol, which aid in maintaining youthful skin structure and function. Additionally, targeted nutritional supplements can fortify the skin from within, promoting overall health and bolstering its resilience. By nurturing the body internally and externally, one can foster a harmonious balance that supports a healthy body and vibrant, youthful-looking skin.
In the dynamic world of cosmetic and medical aesthetics, advancements over the past two decades have led to many sought-after non-surgical treatments catering to the quest for youth and beauty. Skin Renewal clinics offer a range of minimally invasive procedures with minimal downtime and risks. These include laser treatments like Laser Genesis and PICO Laser, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapies such as Limelight, hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Revanesse, Juvederm and Restylane, botulinum toxin injections like Botox and Dysport, chemical peels, radiofrequency procedures like Endymed, microdermabrasion, and mesotherapy.
Factors Contributing to Skin Ageing | Effects |
---|---|
Intense physical and psychological stress, alcohol intake, poor nutrition, overeating, environmental pollution, UV exposure | Premature skin ageing, uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, sagging skin, structural deterioration |
Genetic factors such as hormonal status and metabolic reactions (oxidative stress) | Cellular ageing, replicative senescence, decreased cellular renewal, reduced vascular and glandular networks |
Hormonal changes (decline in estrogen, testosterone, DHEA, growth hormones) | Thinning of skin, increased wrinkling, decreased moisture, slower cellular renewal |
Oxidative stress (UV radiation, air pollution, glycation) | Collagen breakdown, altered cellular renewal cycles, DNA damage, inflammation, reduced skin immunity |
Elevated blood sugar levels and glycation | Collagen abnormalities, loss of elasticity, increased rigidity, tendency to rashes and infections |
Solar Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) and Infrared (IR) Radiation | Photoaging, dermal connective tissue damage, decreased immunity, oxidative stress, inflammation, collagen degradation, depletion of antioxidants, failure of antioxidant defence systems |
Tobacco Smoking | Oxidative stress, impaired blood flow and circulation, DNA damage, "smoker's skin" characteristics (fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, dehydration), improvement upon cessation |
Pollution | Premature skin ageing, hyperpigmentation, sluggish skin cell renewal, correlation with poor health status, environmental toxin exposure |
What a beautiful place to receive procedures !! Stunning. My Dr was Rulene, I had a laser peel, done by Tahren .. painful, but 👍 .. after care by Pat … they amazing!! The “whole team”, from entering the door to leaving is just a pleasure of friendliness, professionalism and care !! I would never dream of going elsewhere!!! Have had other procedures…. Always an incredible, positive experience
MoreI highly recommend Skin Renewal and have seen improvements in my skin since seeing Nicole. Every visit is a pleasure from arriving to leaving and see the long lasting benefits afterwards. I trust her opinion on products and together with them and regular facials I feel a relief that my skin is in good hands. Thank you so much Skin Renewal and Nicole
MoreMy numerous visits to the branch has always been met with excellent service and a friendly and professional staff.My therapist, Rochelle, has been a godsend, her recommendations have been spot on for treating my hyperpigmentaion. Her service is phenomenal, always walk out feeling good.
MoreI'm always looking forward to, and counting the days off until my monthly facial at Skin Renewal in Stellenbosch. The warm and friendly atmosphere makes me feel instantly at ease as soon as I walk through the door. Celeste is incredible and she always takes the time to explain what she's doing and why. I highly recommend Skin Renewal Stellenbosch and getting your treatment done by Celeste - she's the best!
MoreWhat a GameChanger! The past three months I’ve been on a journey rediscovering myself and Dr Pierce & Team Waterfall has been by my side since day one. I honestly felt and still feel like I am the only client Team Waterfall has purely in the manner they personalise every single experience I encounter with them. I want to sincerely thank Dr Pierce for his compassion and his beautiful heart he has for people, a true servant and that is why I could manage to shed 17kgs. The journey was just as personal to him as it is to me. Chantel, thank you for being so patient with all my questions when I started the program as well as Kelly for always being ready to assist me at any given time. Thank you Team Waterfall for bringing out the youth in me.
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