Wrinkled, sagging skin and pigmentation disorders are warning signs of aging; regular sunscreen application and dietary changes are necessary to combat these signs.
On September 29th, Dr. Nguyen Thi Thu Phuong, from the Dermatology Department of Bach Mai Hospital, stated that along with the general aging process of the body, skin aging occurs regularly, continuously, and is unavoidable. This process begins at the age of 25 or possibly earlier.
As skin ages, it becomes wrinkled, saggy, and the bags under the eyes become more prominent. Next, pigmentation disorders appear, such as age spots, freckles, and brown or white patches. Blood vessels dilate, the skin's protective and regenerative functions decrease, making it more vulnerable to damage and slower to heal. Wrinkles become more numerous and deeper. Overall, the skin loses its softness, becomes dry, rough, less firm, and dull.
"Skin aging makes people look older, tired, and lacking vitality, leading to a loss of self-confidence and affecting social interactions," said Dr. Phuong.
Like other organs in the body, skin aging is caused by both internal and external factors. Internal (biological) aging occurs due to natural changes in the body. These changes are influenced by factors such as genes, cellular metabolism, hormones, and metabolic processes. External (environmental) aging, on the other hand, is the result of free radical damage from sun exposure, accumulated exposure, pollution, cigarette smoke, unbalanced nutrition, irregular lifestyle, and improper skincare.
According to Dr. Phuong, the main preventable culprits causing skin aging are sunlight, dry skin due to loss of water retention, environmental pollution, lifestyle habits, and stressful living. Therefore, limiting these culprits will slow down or improve the aging process.
Methods include sun protection, adequate skin hydration, avoiding polluted environments and dust, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, sufficient water intake, and avoiding mental stress. Sun protection measures include using sunscreen, mechanical measures such as sun-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and limiting outdoor exposure between 10 am and 2 pm.
Using sunscreen correctly is also very important. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays when engaging in outdoor activities. For swimming, use a waterproof sunscreen.
A common mistake is not applying enough sunscreen and only applying it once a day. The recommended amount of sunscreen for the face is 1/4 to 1/3 teaspoon. It should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every 2-3 hours.
A diet that promotes healthier skin includes: drinking at least 2 liters of water per day, eating plenty of green vegetables and fruits; limiting sweets, fatty foods, and fried foods; and a diet rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, and selenium. Flavonoids are abundant in soybean sprouts, chocolate, green tea, wine, and grapes. Selenium is found in turkey meat and cereals.
When signs of skin aging appear, it is necessary to consult a doctor for an accurate assessment of the severity and to use appropriate topical and oral medications, along with cosmetic procedures, to help reverse the signs of aging.
Le Nga
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