Did you know that your skin shows signs of aging at the age of 20!
Our skin is exposed to so much of the environment around us including the sun, the weather, the constant ac running in our office, pollution and so much more. Not only that, but our skin aging also depends on factors such as your diet and other (rather bad) habits like smoking.
Let's take a look at a few common factors that can cause skin aging:
The sun - As our ozone layer thins more and more every day, the more UV radiation reaches the Earth, causing premature skin aging effects.
Skin is composed of three layers called the epidermis, the dermis, and the subcutaneous tissue. The dermis contains specific proteins including collagen, elastin, and fibers that affect the skin's elasticity keeping the appearance of smooth and youthful skin.
Photoaging is when your skin is exposed to UVA and UVB rays for long periods of time and can accelerate skin aging by damaging the important proteins in the dermis.
Smoking - Smoking produces free radicals, which are highly reactive/unstable molecules that are produced in the body naturally by oxidation or exposure to toxins in the environment. Free radicals can damage your skin cells which lead to premature wrinkles.
Air conditioning - Many people are now stuck in an office with air conditioning blasting away sucking vital nutrients out of the skin. Air conditioning can make your skin age prematurely. As it loses oils and moisture, your skin begins shriveling and elastic properties are also being reduced.
Once you step out of your office into the sun, the abrupt change in temperature is also very stressful for the skin! It can not only result in premature wrinkles but also acne, breakouts, and loss of elasticity.
Ways to help combat skin aging:
- Cocoa Butter - Research has shown that cocoa can protect the skin from wrinkles, sun exposure that leads to collagen damage!
Cocoa Butter also forms a protective layer to hold moisture on your skin. It also contains phytochemicals that can slow skin aging by protecting against the sun's harmful UV rays. - Washing your face with soaps that have ultra-moisturizing ingredients such as shea and cocoa butter, high oleic acid oils, and turmeric. These ingredients can boost collagen and visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
- Collagen - Consuming collagen in bone broth or supplements can really help
- Stay hydrated - yes, yes we all say this but it's true! You should drink at least half your body's weight in ounces of water every day to replenish the hydration in your body and skin.
We love using cocoa butter and shea butter in our products to provide a protective layer on your skin to aid in aging too!
Here are some products we make that can aid in keeping your skin healthy:
- Oatmeal & Honey Cocoa Butter Bar
- Tea tree charcoal - Tea tree has so many wonderful anti-bacterial properties and is great for acne control.