Aging is a part of life. No matter how many products we
slather on and no matter how many procedures we undergo, the aging
process rolls on. But why does our skin have to show it? And how can we
slow the roll? We spoke to Miami dermatologist Dr. Janice Lima-Maribona to get the answers.
Dr. Lima-Maribona explains that skins shows signs of aging
due to a lack of collagen and elastin, as well as a decrease in
collagen repair and the formation of oxygen radicals with decreased
binding. [Source: NewBeauty.com]
The most visible signs of aging are a direct result of these changes. They include sagging skin and decreased elasticity, dullness of skin tone and quality and hyperpigmentation (aka age spots).
But can the process be slowed down or even stopped? Dr.
Lima-Maribona says that the earlier you start taking care of your skin,
the better. “When you are younger, the first and most important thing is
to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher,” she says, adding that
you should also avoid midday sun and tanning beds.
“As you get into your mid-twenties, use a vitamin C antioxidant serum. My favorite is by SkinCeuticals,”
she says. “And use glycolic acid and a vitamin A derivative like
retinol or retinoic acid at night to keep your skin looking taught and
fresh.”
If you’re starting at a later age, don’t panic, there are
still options. Follow the same regimen as above, but more intensely.
“Add more in-office treatments like IPL (intense pulsed light), microneedling,
dermaplaning, Pixel laser treatments, and fillers and neurotoxins that
restore volume loss and decrease the appearance of saggy skin,” she
suggests.
Lima-Maribona says that the biggest anti-aging mistake
people make is relying on products and procedures that are more about
flash than flesh. “They’re using over-the-counter products that have no
cosmeceutical value, or having plastic surgery procedures and forgetting
about the health and quality of their skin tone and texture.”