The signs of premature ageing (and what you can do about it)

Visible signs of ageing include fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage.

We would all like smooth, youthful-looking skin throughout our lives, but the unfortunate reality is that as we age, our bodily processes tend to slow down. This means that processes like skin cell regeneration take much longer, and the visible effects of this begin to show — often in the form of wrinkles and fine lines. Sometimes these changes occur earlier than one might expect or like — this is known as premature ageing. So, what are the signs of premature ageing? And what can you do to address them?

1.  Sun damage

Also known as age spots or liver spots, sun spots are characterised by flat marks on the skin that are caused by prolonged exposure to the sun. A form of hyperpigmentation, sun spots often appear on the hands, forearms and face. Sun spots, like many other forms of skin damage, are considered a sign of premature ageing if they develop before the age of 35 years old. Individuals with particularly fair skin are usually more susceptible to sun spots than those with darker skin.

2.   Hyperpigmentation on the chest

A common side-effect of the ageing process, many people notice discolouration and/or inflammation on the chest area as they get older. This issue often occurs when the skin cells are damaged by sun exposure over time. In some cases, however, hyperpigmentation and discolouration of the skin can occur as the result of skin conditions such as eczema, in which case it is worth seeking advice from a professional.

3.  Fine lines and wrinkles

Fine lines and wrinkles are common concerns for many people, and if you begin to notice them in your early 30s, they may be considered signs of premature ageing. As we age, the skin slows down its production of the naturally-occurring protein that gives it its shape and youthful plumpness. When there is less of this protein, the skin becomes more prone to wrinkles, fine lines and sagging, especially in areas where the skin is often exposed to the sun or where there are muscles that are frequently used, such as on the forehead and around the eyes.

4.  Dry skin

Many people notice that their skin becomes dryer as they get older. This dryness, along with itchiness, often occurs as the skin becomes more prone to thinning and dehydration with age. It is fairly common to experience dry, itching and even flaky skin as you approach your 40s.

How can we help?

At Ada Aesthetic Medicine, we understand that factors like prolonged sun exposure can accelerate the visible signs of ageing, which is why we offer a number of facial aesthetic and laser treatments. These non-surgical treatments are designed to reduce the signs of ageing and sun damage, while promoting a vibrant and healthy-looking complexion.

If you are struggling with fine lines, wrinkles and/or sun spots, and would like to achieve a smoother, more radiant skin, we encourage you to come in and see us. We will let you know which treatment is most appropriate for you, and explain the relevant process in detail to you.

We also encourage our patients to adopt lifestyle habits that promote healthy skin. These include good sleep habits; a balanced diet that is low in refined sugar, alcohol and caffeine; proper sun protection; and stress reduction techniques if you suspect that this an issue for you. If you would like to find out more about how to maintain healthy skin and overall wellness, please don’t hesitate to chat to our experienced team.

If you would like to find out more about our range of treatments, please have a look here.

If you would like to book an appointment, please get in touch here, or alternatively call us on 02 9552 1442.