UNDERSTANDING ANATOMICAL AGEING
Anatomical ageing is a complex and gradual process that affects all the structures of the human body. Over the years, cells, tissues and organs undergo a series of morphological and functional changes that can have an impact on our health and well-being.
This is a natural, complex and multifactorial process, the result of an interaction between genetic, environmental and molecular factors. Understanding the changes associated with ageing is essential for developing prevention and treatment strategies that seek to promote health and healthy ageing, as well as for defining an appropriate approach to reverse or slow down the effects of ageing.
Anatomical ageing, as an inevitable biological process, can be reflected in different dimensions of the body and mind.
At Avenue Clinic we apply a combined and integrative approach of treatments to address Anatomical Ageing.
As the skin is one of the organs most precociously affected, there is a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin with the consequent loss of elasticity and firmness of the skin, wrinkles and spots. On the face, these changes are often the first visible signs of ageing and can affect self-image, self-esteem and social interactions.
Anatomical ageing of the face involves functional and structural changes at various levels:
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The skin loses elasticity, firmness and hydration due to a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin, essential proteins in this process. The dermis becomes thinner and loses its ability to retain water, resulting in drier skin that is prone to wrinkles and expression lines. There is also a reduction in cell renewal and sebaceous gland activity, contributing to rougher, duller skin.
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This is a gradual process that affects the structure of the facial skeleton, resulting in a loss of bone mass and density, especially in the periorbital, nasal, zygomatic and mandibular areas, leading to a reduction in structural support, which in turn leads to a decrease in bone density.
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Subcutaneous adipose tissue, responsible for giving volume and definition to the face, is redistributed and diminishes over time. Areas such as the cheeks, temples and periorbitals lose volume while other areas, such as the submentum, accumulate fat, altering facial contours and resulting in a more aged appearance, with the development of facial furrows and depressions and greater sagging. The facial muscles responsible for facial movements and expressions are also affected by ageing. There is a decrease in muscle mass and tone, which can result in reduced structural support for the skin and sagging of the soft tissues of the face, which is particularly evident in the lower and upper eyelids, contributing to a more tired and aged appearance.
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In addition to intrinsic biological processes, extrinsic factors such as chronic exposure to UV radiation (one of the main culprits in premature skin ageing by causing damage to cellular DNA and accelerating collagen degradation), smoking, poor diet, non-restorative sleep and stress also play a significant role in the ageing process. Some studies have also shown that genetics influences the speed and manner in which the face ages, with considerable individual variations.
Although the anatomical ageing process of the face is inevitable, studying and understanding this process allows us to understand how it can be slowed down. Preventive and therapeutic approaches should essentially focus on protecting the skin from environmental damage, promoting collagen and elastin production, restoring volume and redefining facial structure.
Understanding this natural process and remaining true to our commitment to respecting the authenticity and uniqueness of individual beauty, at Avenue Clinic we apply a combined and integrative approach of treatments that is always personalized to each case.
Technologies such as laser, radiofrequency and focused ultrasound are used to promote collagen production, improve skin elasticity, redefine facial contour and reposition muscle. Minimally invasive procedures such as botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, collagen biostimulators, polynucleotides or exosomes are used to restore facial volume, smooth expression lines and wrinkles, and improve skin quality.
Topical treatments such as retinoids, antioxidants and alpha-hydroxy acids have also proved effective in improving skin texture, with some degree of collagen stimulation and a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles.
However, in addition to all the treatments and procedures currently available to slow down the ageing process, it is extremely important to implement good habits in our lifestyle. Daily use of sun protection, moisturizing the skin, a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals (in order to combat the formation of free radicals), avoiding smoking, good quality sleep and rest (for cell renewal and repair) and a proper, personalized skincare routine are all part of the path to healthy aging of your skin.
Article originally published in Marketeer, by Avenue Clinic.