WHY DOES OUR SKIN THIN AS WE AGE?

WHY DOES OUR SKIN THIN AS WE AGE? 

_ LOSS OF COLLAGEN AND ELASTIN:

As we age, our body produces less collagen and elastin, and the quality of these proteins also declines. This weakens the skin’s structure and makes it thinner and more fragile.

_ REDUCED FAT AND MOISTURE IN THE SKIN:

The fat layer under the skin (subcutaneous fat) diminishes over time, which reduces cushioning and volume. Sebum (oil) production decreases, leading to drier skin and reduced barrier protection.

_ SLOWER CELL TURNOVER:

Skin constantly regenerates by producing new cells in the lower layers and shedding old ones on the surface. With age, this cell turnover slows down, leading to thinner outer skin (epidermis) and a duller complexion.

_ BLOOD VESSEL CHANGES:

Blood vessels in the skin become more fragile and less efficient at delivering nutrients. This contributes to bruising, slower healing, and a pale or translucent appearance.

_ SUN DAMAGE (Photoaging):

Long-term exposure to UV radiation accelerates skin aging. UV rays break down collagen and elastin and lead to DNA damage, contributing to premature thinning of the skin.

_ HORMONAL CHANGES:

Especially in women, reduced estrogen levels after menopause play a big role in skin thinning by affecting collagen production and moisture retention.