What is skin ageing?
As we age, our skin changes and visible differences can occur, including the loss of volume and the development of fine lines and wrinkles. With collagen and elastin not as they used to be, our skin may appear to be thinning or even sagging in some areas.
For most people, the development of lines on the forehead and sides of the eyes/high cheeks are very common and in response to movement. Females predominantly lose firmness in the jowls, cheeks and upper lip areas. Along with the loss of firmness and tone, our skin can also display signs of sun damage and hyperpigmentation due to years of sun exposure. Whether you’ve spent time outdoors or otherwise, the short UV bursts take a toll on the skin, particularly in the Australian climate.
At Shellharbour Skin, we aim to understand your individual skin needs in order to facilitate a path to smooth, firm, and youthful skin. With a personalised approach to treatment plans, we can help you achieve your desired anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation results.
Causes & symptoms
Over time, the skin becomes thinner and frailer due to a reduced rate of cell renewal. The epidermis (surface layer of skin) contains pigment producing cells that are responsible for the skin’s colour. As we get older, the effects of sun exposure can begin to take their toll on these cells, leading to the development of spots, pigmentation, and wrinkles.
Beneath the epidermis is the dermis, which contains your nerves, blood vessels, and hair follicles. The dermis contains a network of collagen and elastin fibres, which are important proteins in the skin’s connective tissue. These fibres keep the skin strong, firm, and elastic. When we reach adulthood, the rate at which our skin is able to produce collagen and elastin decreases, causing the skin to sag and wrinkle more easily.
In addition to natural ageing and genetics, other environmental factors can contribute to an aged appearance. Knowing the causes of accelerated facial ageing can help you avoid them and keep your skin looking youthful for longer. Environmental factors can include:
- Sun exposure and UV damage
- Smoking
- Poor skincare
- Poor nutrition
- Frequent facial expressions
Skin, especially the facial and neck skin, is one of the first body parts to show signs of ageing. The symptoms can include:
- Lines and wrinkles
- Pigmentation
- Thinning skin
- Facial sagging
- Skin dryness or roughness
- Visible blood vessels
Consultation for skin ageing at Shellharbour Skin
A consultation with Dr Barney is required before you undergo treatment for facial ageing. This will allow you to express your concerns and which issues related to ageing you wish to address. At your consultation, we will inquire about your general health, such as any past cosmetic procedures, medical conditions, or medications you are taking. We will then assess your condition and take you through the most appropriate treatment methods. You will be welcome to express your preferences and desired outcomes for ageing treatment, and we will aim to design a treatment plan that suits you and your goals. If you are interested in treatment for facial ageing, book a consultation at Shellharbour Skin.
Your treatment plan
There are many options for facial ageing treatment. At your initial consultation, we will discuss which treatment options may benefit you, based on the extent of your facial ageing and what you hope to achieve. While some procedures aim to improve skin health and elasticity, others aim to restore lost facial volume, reduce pigmentation, or smooth static wrinkles. Options can include:
Cosmetic Injectables
Injectables are a great way to rejuvenate an aged appearance. Patients may seek anti-wrinkle injections to relax facial movement and smooth lines and wrinkles. Dermal fillers are also an option for people who wish to improve their facial contours by restoring volume to certain areas.
LED light therapy can reduce wrinkles and other signs of ageing, such as spots and pigmentation. Adjustable wavelengths means we can customise the procedure to your skin type and needs, providing effective anti-ageing results.
Forever Young+ BBL
BBL therapy uses pulses of light to rejuvenate the skin at a deep level. The Broad Band Light (BBL) is absorbed by your skin cells, improving your cell turnover rate as well as the skin’s ability to produce collagen.
SkinTyte is a non-invasive skin-tightening treatment that uses infrared light to firm the skin. The rapid pulses of energy promote collagen and natural skin healing. This option can be ideal for people who are concerned about skin laxity due to ageing.
Skin Peels
Skin Peels are designed to exfoliate and rejuvenate the top layers of the skin and reveal a layer of fresh, healthy skin beneath. This process minimises signs of ageing and aids the production of collagen.
Cosmeceutical Skincare
Skincare is important in reducing and preventing signs of ageing, as it helps the skin stay healthy. We may recommend a diligent skincare routine, including moisturiser and sun protection, to help you achieve a youthful appearance. Vitamin A options will also be discussed, and the most suitable formulation for your skin will be recommended.
Skin Needling
Skin needling stimulates the skin by triggering a natural healing response. The process improves collagen production and helps the skin become smoother and firmer.
Results & aftercare
After treatment, your skin will begin to improve and regenerate – according to the type and frequency of your anti-ageing treatment sessions. Dr Barney will advise the best aftercare to help you get the most out of your procedure, such as avoiding sun exposure and using appropriate skincare products. Our excellent skincare products which we may recommend include:
- Aspect Dr Age Management Kit
- Biopelle Tensage Antioxidant Defense Serum
- Aspect Dr Exfol A Plus
- Aspect Dr Resveratrol Moisturising Cream
- Propaira SPF50+ Tinted
- Aspect Hydrating Face SPF50+
