The search for a cream, elixir or
pill which can reverse, or at least wipe
away, the effects of ageing from the skin is something which has kept
scientists and researchers busy for many years. Kavitha S Danielmeets an expert
who believes there could be light at the end of the tunnel.
If you thought nothing was more
inevitable than ageing, you may be wrong. Scientists are busy tinkering with
the DNA matrix striving to close in on the elusive factor responsible for
ageing.
With each new day, the scientific world
seems to be inching closer towards discovering a way to halt – and maybe even
reverse – the unerring process of old age.
In man’s battle against time, in this
Dorian grey quest for the perfect picture of youth, the sun and other sources
of UV radiation have emerged as the no.1 enemy of youthful skin. The sun is
primarily responsible for triggering off ageing – wrinkles, roughness, laxity
and mottled pigmentation; all these are the fruits of staing far too long outdoors.
But, to what extent do genes play a role in this? Why does deterioration of the
skin differ from person to person?
Under attack – internally and
externally
Ageing occurs in two ways – intrinsic
and extrinsic, says Lange. Intrinsic ageing, based on hormonal, genetic and
chronological factors, might be inevitable but can be influence to an extent. Extrinsic ageing, however, is based on
external factors such as ultraviolet rays from the sun, air conditioning,
stress, smoking, alcohol, airborne pollutance, chemical irritants and lack of a
vitamin, protein and minerals diet. These factors are entirely in one’s
control.
All the above factors, be it from
within or without, says Lange, stimulate, directly or indirectly, the
production of excess free radicals in the body.
Free radicals are molecules with unpaired electrons found inside our
body. Electrons typically need to exist in pair and molecules lacking one electron are highly
reactive and can damage other cells as well. Free radicals are impossible to
avoid. Created mainly by UV radiation in daylight, free radicals are also.
How does the sun damage the skin – sun dealing
with skin?
When we talk of the sun, we are
actually focusing on the ultraviolet (UV) light. It comprises three bands
differentiated by their energy levels. The UVC, which has the highest energy
level and is usually absorbed by the ozone layer, is potentially the most
damaging. The medium energy range, or the UVB, which can easily penetrate the
surface of the skin, can cause serious damage. UVB, radiation cause sunburn,
suntan, dark spots, irregular pigmentation patches and increased cell division,
leading to skin cancer. The UVB radiation is most intense between 11 am and 3
pm.
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Structure of the skin |
The UVA has the lowest energy level but
is, however, far from harmless. It penetrates the deeper part of the skin
destroying its healthy, supportive layer – causing a dry, prematurely aged look
with lines and wrinkles. The UVA interestingly, is always present in the
daylight even during cloudy days and it is estimated that it accounts for 95
per cents of the total UV radiation.
With its ability to penetrate glass,
the chances of exposures to UVA are always presents. Due to its harmful effects
on a daily basis, the UVA is the single most deteriorating factor for skin
ageing. Hence, the sun is something to worry about in this region.
Should men also take care of their skin
– Deal with men’s skin?
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Beauty skin |
However wrinkles and furrows on the
face of a man seem to be more attractive that on the face of a woman. Just
think of Sean cannery, Clint East Wood, Harrison Ford and Bruce wills. All still
considered attractive, whereas woman such as Demy Moor, Madonna and Joan
Collins are praised for their ability to look younger and wrinkle-free. I guess
this explains why there is no scientific research in the area of men’s
skincare. However, I have had many men asking about imedeem here in the Middle
East, so maybe men here care more about their skin.
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