Jaq Rowling
- Jan 31, 2023
- 4 min read

Age management - the ruah edit

fine lines
wrinkles
loss of structural integrity
dehydration/ lack of moisturiser
dryness
pigmentation
redndess/ becoming more sensitive
devitalised/ lacklustre

What is happening and how ?

This is called the ageing process due to a decline in the skin’s barrier defence systems.

As each decade goes by, the systems and cells of our skin experience biological levels of cellular damage.. This can be accelerated by many intrinsic and extrinsic factors that advance the ageing process; Some of these can include genetics, poor nutrition, certain medications, solar radiation, pollution, and stress (whether being physical and/or psychological), all these intrinsic and extrinsic factors create the perfect environment for inflammation within the body and skin, leading to the signs and symptoms of premature ageing.

Our skin is supplied with a very intense defence system that regulates our trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) while providing protection against pathogens and allergens. It also contains an elaborate antioxidant system that neutralises free radicals; keeping the skin protected against harmful reactive oxygen molecules that cause damage to our lipids, proteins and DNA. As we age our immune system declines and the skin looses its antioxidant ability... This, unfortunately unloads an immense stress on our skin cell membranes; causing fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and other age-related skin problems.

Intrinsic ageing

Intrinsic, or “chronological ageing” (how old you are), is the inevitable genetically determined process that naturally occurs. It is determined by each person’s individual genetic clock and is affected by the degenerative effects of free radicals, and the body’s inability to perfectly repair their damage. As we age, the body’s innate defence systems decline, cells, tissues and vital organs deteriorate, and we observe changes in muscles, fat and bones which amplify the visible signs of ageing.

Intrinsic ageing is a continuous process that usually begins in the mid-20s but may not become evident for decades. As the skin is the largest organ of the body, it is also the site of response to some other event taking place within the body. The appearance of pigmentation, wrinkles, loss of adhesion, structural integrity and resiliency, all showcase this exactly.

Extrinsic ageing

Extrinsic ageing is also known as photo-ageing.

UV-radiation accounts mainly for the changes that are characteristic of this type of ageing, although cigarette smoking, pollution, alcohol, poor nutrition, and high amounts of free radicals are contributing factors.

Oxidative stress - Up to the age of 25, our skin gradually experiences more and more oxidative stress that accelerates free radical production.

Lipid-peroxidation - From the age of 25 to 35, lipid-peroxidation begins to take hold. This is a compounded form of oxidative stress.

Mitochondrial DNA damage/ageing - From the age of 35 to 50, the mitochondria of your cells become affected. The mitochondria is the battery operator of a cell.

Cellular senescence - From the age of 50 onwards, cells experience cellular senescence (Alzheimer’s disease) which is the end of the regenerative cycle. Cells are alive but distorted in their form and function with reduced and abnormal cell function.

To topically combat and inhibit biological levels of cellular damage, we must be utilising products containing water and oil-soluble antioxidants twice daily to neutralise free radicals. The use of vitamins A, C, E and vitamin B5 is an excellent start, combined with essential fatty acids high in antioxidants such as Kiwi Seed, Boswellia and Rose Hip Oil. Internally, we need to be incorporating a good amount of Omega 3 to reduce inflammation and to enhance cellular function, whilst following a balanced diet.

Skin treatments to support the ageing skin:

Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy)

Is a skin treatment modality that invokes a controlled wound healing response within the skin’s tissue using medical grade, stainless steel needles. These needles, in turn, generate a controlled inflammatory response within the tissue and result in the production of biological protein molecules (cytokines and growth factors). Medical microneedling is a safe and effective modality when it comes to improving fine lines, wrinkles, scarring and pigmentation concerns.

Cosmetic Rolling

Cosmetic rolling or at-home skin needling can be used for collagen induction for the channelling of our own collagen. Researchers found that at 0.2mm there was a significant increase in the expression of collagen proteins necessary for the repair of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation. Cosmetic rolling is an inexpensive tool that can truly change your skin, and it is highly encouraged to invest in one if you’re concerned with premature ageing.

LED (Light Emitting Diode)

Is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates cellular regeneration and encourages tissue homeostasis (balance). LED uses different coloured wavelengths which can penetrate below the skin’s surface in order to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. LED encourages the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy that increases cell-turnover, supports wound healing and helps to undo signs of ageing within the epidermis and the dermis.

Top 5 actives to support the ageing skin:

Green Tea Extract

Is rich in polyphenols and has anti-inflammatory properties. Caffeine is also found in Green Tea which stimulates microcirculation via vasoconstriction. It is the perfect active for fighting against environmentally induced damage.

Vitamin C Liposome Concentrate

Is an essential antioxidant for the manufacture and synthesis of collagen. Vitamin C has complimentary role to Vitamin E and is an essential companion. Vitamin C metabolises excess histamine, provides anti-inflammatory properties and plays a vital role in immune protection.

Zinc Liposomal Serum

Increases cellular regeneration, supports collagen and elastin production while providing anti-inflammatory benefits. Zinc also improves wound healing and is a free radical scavenger.

Vitamin A Nanoparticles

Is the number one skin regenerator and normaliser. Vitamin A can regulate the skin’s structure and function, improve the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as up-regulate the expression of collagen while sustaining DNA and cellular structures.

Co-enzyme Q10 Nanoparticles

Increases cellular turnover, lipid metabolism and also boosts collagen production. Co-enzyme Q10 is essential for the production of ATP (the energy our cells require to function) and is a potent antioxidant for scavenging harmful free radicals.