Longevity research has highlighted several longevity pillars that contribute to living a long, healthy life. Since the new year, we have been discussing these factors one by one, exploring how nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress, social connection and a positive mindset can each contribute to healthspan and lifespan. Now, we are going to discuss the final factor: skincare.
SkinBase Beauty Guides
Our longevity pillar blog series has given you all of the information you need to achieve your skin and health goals. Download our Healthy Habits guide to find out more about each longevity pillar.
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Longevity
Longevity is the science and practice of optimising healthspan and lifespan. Increasing lifespans and healthspans are allowing individuals to live for longer, and are increasing quality of life during this time too. Skincare is an incredibly important aspect of longevity. Studies suggest the health of your skin can be used to predict your risk of developing diseases unrelated to the skin. Individuals with prematurely aged or damaged skin are much more likely to suffer from cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and bone diseases.
Chronological vs Biological Age
Often, you will consider investing in non-surgical treatments to ‘turn back the clock’ on your skin. It is therefore important to note that the skin has two ages: a chronological age, and a biological age. The skin’s chronological age is representative of your actual age. Biological age, on the other hand, describes how the skin appears, functions and behaves. These two ages are not always aligned. Biological age is influenced by accumulated damage from a variety of sources. So, in order to treat your skin concerns and achieve your skin goals, you must understand the importance of the longevity factors contributing to the age and health of your skin.
Skincare & Longevity
Your skin is the largest organ of your body and serves as its first line of defence against environmental damage. It is key to longevity.
Sun Protection
UV exposure is the number one cause of premature ageing. Prolonged sun exposure leads to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers within the skin, contributing to a saggy and wrinkled appearance. In the long term, it increases the risk of skin cancer, which can significantly impact both skin health and longevity. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is your best defence against UV damage. The SkinBase Daily Protect SPF is a great choice to maintain a youthful appearance.
Antioxidants
As we age, our body’s ability to fight off free radicals declines. These damaging molecules come from a variety of sources, including pollution, UV radiation, and stress. Free radicals break down the skin’s structure, contributing to wrinkles, age spots, and loss of firmness. Antioxidants like vitamin C and E help to combat these free radicals, neutralising any potential damage. Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine will protect your complexion and promote cellular longevity, keeping your skin firm and glowing. The SkinBase Hydro treatment is an excellent way to incorporate beneficial ingredients into your routine. Choose the brightening serum for a hydrating infusion of antioxidants into your skin.
Exfoliation
As we get older, the skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down, resulting in dull, uneven skin. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and stimulates the production of new, healthy ones, for a refreshed appearance. Regular, gentle exfoliation, either through chemical exfoliants (SkinBase Hydro) or physical exfoliants (SkinBase Microdermabrasion) can improve cell turnover and keep your skin looking radiant. By investing in a professional treatment, you can be sure that you are not over exfoliating, which can damage the skin barrier and do more harm than good.
Hydration
Dehydrated skin is more prone to wrinkles, dullness, and irritation. As you age, the skin’s natural moisture-retaining abilities decrease, leading to the need for more external hydration. The best way to ensure your skin remains hydrated is by following a consistent cleanse, tone, moisturise and SPF routine. Drinking plenty of water and using skincare with advanced ingredients supports skin longevity by maintaining its natural balance. The SkinBase Hydration Max moisturiser is a rich, nourishing cream that replenishes and relieve skin dryness with a blend of soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredients.
By protecting your skin from external damage, nourishing it with the right ingredients, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can enhance not just your appearance, but your quality of life as you age.
