Preparation
Fine lines and wrinkles are a normal part of the aging process—these marks are symptoms of decades of smiles and the natural slowing of cellular turnover and collagen production. Ultimately, the latter can cause our skin to change in appearance overtime. “As we get older, our skin loses collagen and elastin and becomes increasingly more lax, which can lead to the appearance of loose skin with a crepe-paper-like texture,” says Nkem Ugonabo, MD, MPH, board-certified dermatologist at Unionderm.
While the aging process cannot be stopped, Dr. Ugonabo notes that there are certain things dermatologists recommend to make loose, crepey skin less apparent. In addition to using products that protect you from UV radiation, moisturizing regularly to keep the skin hydrated, and applying certain ingredients that help stimulate collagen are effective ways to minimize crepeyness.
The reason skin becomes loose and crepey is twofold. According to Julie Russak, MD, FAAD, board certified dermatologist, fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, and founder of the Russak Dermatology Clinic, both intrinsic and extrinsic factors play a role. Intrinsic factors are genetics and overall metabolic health of the body, while extrinsic factors are mostly due to damage caused from the sun.
“UV radiation and free radicals break down our collagen and elastin fibers, which provide structure and support to the skin,” she says. Without these, there is nothing to hold the skin together. Other extrinsic factors include air pollution, hormonal changes, and internal and external stress. “Added to that equation, is the overall rule that we produce 1 percent less collagen every year after the age of 25,” says Dr. Russak.
The good news is, Dr. Russak says there are products that can combat loose, crepey skin. “Maintenance with home care is crucial,” she says. “You will always see the best results when combining in-office treatments a few times a year, while maintaining those results at home everyday with skin care.” While certain products can help, Dr. Russak also stresses the importance of starting preventative measures earlier rather than later. “I always recommend that my patients start with good quality, medical-grade skin care products early on and focus on preventative pre-aging, instead of waiting until they see signs of aging like wrinkles and lines,” she says.
When searching for products to help with these skin care concerns, be on the lookout for a few specific ingredients. Dr. Ugonabo says retinoids (or retinols) and peptides can help to stimulate your body to produce more collagen, which leads to firmer skin. Additionally, Dr. Russak suggests checking for products containing peptides and antioxidants—including but limited to vitamin C, matrix metalloproteinases inhibitors, hyaluronic acid, and hyaluronidase inhibitors.
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