Visible signs of ageing are the symptoms of changes that have occurred below the skin's surface as a result of harmful external influences. These external factors produce free radicals, which are the skin’s main enemy. They attack and break down the skin's supportive structure, which consists essentially of collagen, elastin fibres and moisture-retaining elements called polysaccharides. The results of this degradation are fine lines and wrinkles, dry skin and uneven skin tone, to name a few. Factors that contribute to the skin's deterioration are outlined below.

Sun

Approximately 80% of visible skin ageing is the product of UV light exposure. This means that the sun and daylight have more effect on your skin than your body's natural ageing process.

Hormonal Ageing

During the first five years following menopause, the skin loses up to 30% of its supportive collagen fibres. As a result, the skin becomes thinner and the signs of skin ageing accelerate. The skin becomes less capable of storing moisture, becomes drier and "looser," wrinkles deepen and become more pronounced. The skin also becomes more prone to damage caused by free radicals as the cell renewal process slows down.

Pollution

Airborne pollutants such as dirt and dust – present in most modern environments, especially in densely populated or industrialized areas – are harmful to the skin.

Air-conditioning

Dry, air-conditioned or centrally-heated interiors dehydrate the skin, leaving the epidermis dry, flaky and vulnerable. This dehydration damages the skin's barrier function and promotes increased evaporation of dermal moisture.

Sleep

Sleep deprivation leads to a lacklustre complexion and dark, puffy under-eye circles. Lack of sleep leads to skin that is prone to premature lines and wrinkles.

Stress

Our emotions can literally show on our faces. Anxiety and anger have been shown to increase sebum production in the skin, while periods of calm significantly decrease sebum levels.

Alcohol

Drinking in excess leads to significant skin dehydration and robs the body of vital nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C and the minerals magnesium and zinc.

Smoking

Studies show that smoking reduces the supply of blood to the skin's surface, restricting the flow of essential nutrients. This leaves the skin dull and greyish in colour. Smokers tend to have thinner skin than non-smokers; therefore, their skin is prone to the premature appearance of lines and wrinkles.