Aging is a slowly evolving physiological and predictable phenomenon: Clinically it ends the growth period; For cell biology, it starts with conception. This gradual and global loss of functional capacities and reserves affects all organs and tissues . For skin, the largest and most visible organ in the body, aging may not have a physical impact, but for many, the aesthetic issue associated with it is very important. In the Western world, skin aging has become even more relevant: With increased longevity; With changing habits and fashion, particularly in the second half of the 20 th century; When the baby boomer generation - people who were born between the end of World War II and 1964 - reached their sixth decade of life and began to dislike what the mirror was showing them. Skin aesthetics , one of the areas of activity of dermatologists, has, therefore, known extraordinary developments. What is skin aging Skin aging has two components: Intrinsic aging , which is associated with age and is genetically determined. The skin becomes thinner, atrophic, with less repair capacity, less elasticity and shine, and expression wrinkles more pronounced; Extrinsic aging , which is the premature aging of the skin due to external factors, of which repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, whether from sun or artificial, is the most important. In this photoaging , there is an inflammatory response to UV rays and the skin becomes thicker, loose, rough, yellowish and with irregular pigmentation changes. The risk factors for photoaging are: Older age; Male; Phototypes 1 to 3; Recreational or occupational sun exposure; Use of solariums. Exposure to UV radiation is not responsible only for photoaging. It also favors development of pre-malignant and malignant lesions or photocarcinogenesis . It induces DNA alterations with mutations and carcinogenesis, and also immunosuppression, with lesser recognition of malignant cells and surveillance of oncogenic viruses. Prevention of photoaging Photoprotection plays a key role in preventing photoaging and it should never be forgotten, especially in seasons when UV radiation is more intense and in outdoor activities, whether on the beach, in the countryside or simply to go for a walk or do some physical exercise: Use a suitable sunscreen correctly; Wear protective clothing and equipment, like glasses and a hat; Avoid sun exposure between 11 am and 4 pm, which are the hours of greatest intensity of ultraviolet radiation. Treating aged skin The treatment of skin aging can be related to volume, elasticity, surface regularity or vitality . As a rule, to obtain a globally interesting result, the treatment focuses on several aspects and it may be necessary more than one treatment method, either together or in sequence. 1. Restore volumes Remove what is extra, for example with microliposuction; Put where needed, using filler materials or fillers. 2. Modify elasticity Relax what is tense, for example with botulinum toxin; Increase the tension of what is flaccid, for example with radio frequency. 3. Flatten surfaces Techniques with varying degrees of "aggressiveness" can be used, including: Peelings; Intense pulsed light; Fractioned lasers; Plasma lamps; Photodynamic therapy. 4. Revitalize , for which two techniques stand out: Mesotherapy; Injection of enriched plasma factors. Protect your skin! Photoaging is responsible for most skin cosmetic problems in fair-skinned people. Photoaging marks are identifiable in 80%-90% of people with phototypes 1, 2 and 3. If you have any problems or issues associated with your skin, or if you want to have a skin rejuvenation treatment, be sure to consult a dermatologist . Author : José Campos Lopes Meet the dermatology team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
