Everything You Need to Know About Premature ageing

What are the Signs of Premature Ageing?

The ageing process looks different for everyone, but there are certain signs of aging that are considered “premature” if you notice them before you turn 35. This includes –

1. Sun Spots - Also called age spots and liver spots, these are flat spots on your skin caused by years of sun exposure. They tend to appear at or after age 40. People with fairer skin may see these sun spot developments earlier.

2. Gaut Hands – Over time, your hands may start to appear veinier, thin, and prone to wrinkles as the top layers of your skin become thinner and contain fewer structuring proteins, such as collagen, that gives your skin its shape.

3. Inflammation or Hyperpigmentation along chest - Similar to sunspots, many people develop patchy discoloration on their chest as they get older which can be caused by damage to cells from sun exposure. There isn’t an average age of when this skin condition typically appears.

4. Dry or Itchy Skin – This may happen more frequently over time because thinning skin is more susceptible to dehydration.

5. Wrinkles or Sagging - Collagen is what helps your skin bounce back and stay plump and as you enter your 30s, your skin slows down its production of collagen, the protein that gives your skin its shape thereby resulting in wrinkling and sagging. However, the age when people first notice wrinkles varies.

6. Hair Loss - Hair loss happens as the stem cells that trigger new hair growth in your hair follicles die off. Hormone changes, environmental factors, genetics, and your diet all play a role in how quickly this happens.

Causes of Premature Ageing

There are a couple of different factors that have a direct effect on how quickly these signs appear on your body. These are:

- Smoking

- Sun exposure and Tanning

- Poor Diet

- Lack of Sleep

- Stress

- Genetics

- Alcohol & Caffeine intake

- Environmental pollutants

Managing Premature Ageing

Once you notice the signs of aging, you can take steps to address the way your body is changing — or allow nature to take its course. These are –

1. Wear sunscreen with at least 30 SPF daily to protect yourself from UV rays, and reduce direct sun exposure.

2. Topical application of aloe vera, vitamin C, and products containing alpha hydroxy acid may help treat sunspots.

3. Moisturize your hands regularly.

4. Make lifestyle changes which include following a sleep schedule, quitting smoking, and wearing gloves while washing dishes or gardening.

5. Stay hydrated.

6. Take shorter showers using lukewarm water.

7. Cosmetics with green tea extracts, vitamin A, vitamin C, retinoids, and anti-oxidants may be helpful.

8. Follow a diet full of nutritious food that nourishes your hair. Consider adding multivitamin or vitamin supplement to help your body make keratin which will help in preventing hair loss.

9. Consult a dermatologist to rule out any skin conditions.

Clinical treatment for Premature Ageing

This includes:

a. For sunspots – intense pulsed light therapy, cryotherapy, and chemical peels.

b. For hands that have aged – chemical peels, dermal fillers, and laser treatment.

c. For hyperpigmentation – mild steroids and bleaching agents can fade the look over time.

d. For itchy skin - speak to a doctor about a prescription moisturizer that has stronger ingredients for protecting your skin.

e. For wrinkles or sagging skin - procedures like botox and dermal fillers can make your skin more full or lifted and less wrinkled.

Can it be Reversed?

You can’t stop aging completely but when it comes to slowing the signs you don’t like, it’s all about prevention and giving your cells a boost through products or lifestyle changes.

How to Prevent further Ageing

● Use sunscreen

● Sleep Well

● Follow a healthy and balanced diet

● Practice stress management

● Stay hydrated

● Quit smoking

When to Talk to a Doctor ?

Consult a doctor if you’re concerned about signs of ageing.

Conclusion

To avoid many of the common premature ageing issues it is paramount to take a proactive, smart approach to your lifestyle. Today, a variety of lifestyle and supplemental strategies are easily accessible helping anyone make proactive changes to improve their ongoing quality of life.

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Source: Healthline, MyClevelandClinic, Mayoclinic

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on March 21, 2023