
Acne
Dry Skin
Oily Skin
Under-Eye
Wrinkles
|
Cause
Wrinkles are a result of aging and exposure to free radicals which together cause; i) free radical damage to the skin; ii) decreased or impaired production of collagen and elastin; iii) lower cellular turnover of the skin; and iv) a diminished supply of antioxidants to the skin.
Free radicals are highly reactive molecules and atoms that oxidize and attack cellular structures such as the skin. Exposure to certain environmental elements, especially UV radiation and smoking, as well as the use of harsh detergent-based cleansers and other low-grade skincare products accelerate free radical damage, which weakens the skins defenses to wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Antioxidants produced by the body are our key defense mechanism against free radical damage. In fact, antioxidants are intimately involved in the body's prevention of cellular damage - the common pathway for aging, cancer, and a variety of diseases. Collagen and elastin are the connective tissues that give skin its firmness and elasticity. Healthy cellular turnover of the skin produces newer, firmer skin resulting in a fresh, glowing complexion.
As we age, our DNA instructs the body to decrease the production of collagen, elastin and antioxidants, as well as the rate of cellular turnover of the skin. Free radicals also attack the collagen and elastin tissues as well as decreasing cellular turnover, causing our skin to become flaccid and inelastic. This is how our skin becomes wrinkled and takes on a less youthful appearance. To view a representation of the effects of aging and free radical damage, click here.
|


|