Although we still have much to learn about aging skin, your
esthetician now has enough substantial knowledge—and many
amazing products and treatments—to really make significant
changes in the appearance of aging skin and sun-induced aging,
a.k.a. dermatoheliosis or photoaging.
DEFINING AGING
The actual process of aging is a normal life process. This is referred to as chronological or
intrinsic aging. Genetics, gravity, 50 years of repeated facial expressions, genetic and acquired
hormonal changes, and the passing of time all affect the way our skin and faces look after 30,
40, 50, or more years.
Extrinsic aging factors are largely controllable by the individual. This type of skin aging,
caused by years of exposure to outside and environmental factors, includes unprotected and
excessive sun exposure, poor skin care, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor nutrition,
and other controllable health habits. Out of all these contributors to aging, sun and smoking
are by far the worst.
12 ASCP Fine Lines
Prevention First
The best way to treat sun damage is to stop it before it starts
by Mark Lees, PhD
