Aging skin involves both intrinsic (cell biology) and extrinsic factors; though the latter are often unavoidable, their damage to cells may be limited. UV radiation is undoubtedly one of the major extrinsic contributors; infrared rays, blue light, pollution and pollution all play their parts as contributors of photoaged skin development through free radical generation, leading to subsequent oxidative stress that damages DNA, proteins and lipids resulting in damage that ultimately causes photoaging of skin cells.
Oxidative damage, which contributes to many signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and pigmentation, rough skin texture and irregular pigmentation patterns, etc. is caused when free radicals produced through oxidation of cellular metabolites break down collagen and other essential proteins found in the extracellular matrix – using similar processes that rust metal and food rot rott.
Cellular damage wrought by free radicals is compounded by exposure to UVA and UVB rays from sunlight that penetrate deep into the dermis, as well as air pollution which may increase oxidative stress and inflammation.
Preventing premature skin aging starts by protecting it from external stressors such as UV radiation. To do this, wear sunscreen daily and try not to spend prolonged time in direct sunlight as much as possible. Furthermore, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are both known to increase oxidative stress on your body’s cells, contributing to premature aging of skin tissue.