Intrinsic and Extrinsic Ageing. A 360 Approach

Understanding Intrinsic and Extrinsic Ageing: How Time and Environment Shape Our Skin

Ageing is a natural process that affects all living beings, and humans are no exception. As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, many of which are visible on our skin. Understanding the different types of ageing—intrinsic and extrinsic—can help us take better care of our skin and overall health. This blog delves into these two types of ageing, explaining their causes, effects, and ways to manage them.

Intrinsic Ageing:

The Natural Clock Intrinsic ageing, also known as chronological ageing, is the natural and inevitable process that occurs as we grow older. It is determined by our genetic makeup and the passage of time.

Causes:

1. Genetics: Our DNA plays a significant role in how we age. Some people are genetically predisposed to age more gracefully, while others may show signs of ageing earlier.

2. Biological Processes: Over time, our cells divide and regenerate less efficiently. This slowdown in cellular activity contributes to the physical signs of ageing. It is important to remember that we are ageing internally as well as externally.

Effects:

1. Wrinkles and Fine Lines: As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, proteins that keep skin firm and elastic and supple. This reduction leads to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. as the collagen fibres are less tensile creating undulations in the skin.

2. Thinner Skin: The skin's outer layer (epidermis) thins over time, making it more susceptible to damage.

3. Dryness: Older skin tends to lose moisture more easily, leading to dryness and flakiness. This is hugely impacted with the decline in oestrogen for women, which is needed to keep the skin functioning correctly.

4. Age Spots: These pigmented spots appear as a result of changes in melanocyte activity (cells that produce pigment) with age.

5. Illness: As our cells be come stressed over time with the natural ageing process, our mitochondrial health suffers (our cells batteries) and our bodies become subject to oxidative cell stress resulting in a whole range of conditions associated with ageing.

Management:

1. Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals 100% supports skin health, brain health, and the muscular skeletal system. It also keeps our cells healthy and in good working order. Studies have shown that the best diet for this is a paleo diet, rich in lean meats, fish, vegetables and whole grains.

2. Hydration: Keeping the skin well-hydrated with moisturisers and drinking plenty of water helps maintain the skins elasticity AND increased energy within the body. Water is also essential for good gut health and bowel movement, enabling the body to easily remove toxins from the lymphatic system.

3. Correct Skin Care: Using a medic led skincare can dramatically improve ones skin. You would be surprised how many clients come to me using the wrong skincare or poor cheap skincare. Skincare is your greatest investment, dramatically reducing the need for expensive aesthetics and treatments down the line!

4. The addition of a good hydrolysed collagen supplement can dramatically improve the appearance of the skin and is super beneficial for muscle repair and joint lubrication too. I use LifeVantage True Science liquid collagen.

5. Taking a daily synergiser like NRF2 will dramatically help reduce oxidative cell stress on the body. This in turn is reflected on how we look and age.

For more info on NRF2 and True Science Collagen visit https://nuu.lifevantage.com

Extrinsic Ageing:

The Environmental Assault

Extrinsic ageing is caused by external factors that can accelerate the ageing process. Unlike intrinsic ageing, extrinsic ageing is largely preventable through lifestyle choices and protective measures.

Causes:

1. Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the primary cause of extrinsic ageing. It damages the skin's collagen and elastin fibers, leading to premature wrinkles and sagging, as well as dramatically increasing the risk of skin cancer

2. Pollution: Environmental pollutants can generate free radicals, which damage skin cells and accelerate ageing. Heavy metals found in car exhaust fumes play a huge roll in “The Fenton Reaction” whereby lead, copper and other pollutants significantly damage the skin.

3. Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet can all contribute to extrinsic ageing. Again taking a holistic approach to the way we manage the ageing process is only beneficial to the outcome.

4. Stress: Chronic stress can affect hormone levels and overall health, which in turn impacts skin ageing. This is probably the hardest factor to manage, as our live become increasingly more demanding. Taking REGULAR and CONSISTENT time out for ones self and implementing self care (reading, exercise, yoga, time with friends) is proven to dramatically reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and can significantly impact ones longevity.

Effects:

1. Photoaging: Chronic sun exposure leads to photoaging, characterised by deep wrinkles, rough texture, and pigmentation changes in the skin, however a balanced approach to spending time in the sun can be beneficial, boosting vitamin D in the body which in turn improves bone health, boosts the immune system, supports the nervous system and can contribute to weight loss and help to prevent cancer.

2. Hyperpigmentation: Age spots, also known as liver spots, are more pronounced with excessive sun exposure.

3. Loss of Elasticity: Environmental damage can cause the skin to lose its firmness and become more prone to sagging.

4. Inflammation: Pollutants and unhealthy habits can lead to skin inflammation, which accelerates ageing. Inflammation not only occurs in the skin but also within the body. Inflammatory disorders range from rheumatoid arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders affecting gut health, and cardiovascular diseases.

Management -

1. Sun Protection for the skin: Using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade can significantly reduce the ageing process externally

2. Antioxidants: Topical and dietary antioxidants (like vitamins C and E) can neutralise free radicals and reduce environmental damage. Remember you get what you pay for so choosing a medic led Vitamin C such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic which is known to PROTECT AND REVERSE damage to the skin will serve you much better. Cheaper versions will not penetrate the skin or have the same scientific results.

3. Healthy Lifestyle: Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a nutritious diet can promote overall skin and body health. Making small changes like reducing sugars, adding more fibre and vegetables can have a huge impact on intrinsic and extrinsic ageing.

360 Approach:

Both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing contribute to the changes we see in our skin and how we age as we grow older. While we cannot halt the natural ageing process, we can certainly mitigate the effects of extrinsic ageing through mindful lifestyle choices and proactive skincare. By understanding the differences between these two types of ageing, we can adopt better habits to keep our skin looking healthy and vibrant for years to come. Remember, ageing is a natural part of life, and embracing it with grace while taking care of ourselves can lead to a more confident and radiant self, and a longer lifespan!