CHECK-UP:My skin has developed patches of dryness, discoloration and bruising without any obvious cause. I've been given a clean bill of health by my GP who says the problem is to do with my age (late 60s). Could this be so?
The skin structure is divided roughly into three main parts: the outer part (epidermis) contains skin cells, pigment and proteins; the dermis contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles and oil glands; while the inner layer (subcutaneous) contains sweat glands, blood vessels and fat.
Each layer contains connective tissue to provide support and elastin fibres to provide flexibility and strength.
Age-related skin changes are influenced by environmental factors, genetic make-up, nutrition and other factors.
The greatest single factor, however, is sun exposure. As we age, the outer skin layer thins and large pigmented spots – sometimes called liver spots or age spots – tend to develop.
Growths such as warts and skin tags may also appear.
The subcutaneous fat layer, which provides insulation and padding, thins, increasing the risk of skin injury and reducing the body’s ability to maintain its normal temperature.
With less natural insulation, in cold weather hypothermia may result.
As the sweat glands produce less sweat it is harder for body temperature to be regulated in warm weather with an increased risk of overheating or developing heat stroke.
So it’s all down to the ageing process?
In addition to the effects the natural ageing process can have on the skin, other conditions including heart disease, vascular and liver problems and diabetes can affect the skin. Skin disorders can also develop as a result of stress arteriosclerosis, side effects of certain drugs, obesity and nutritional deficiencies due to poor diet.
Climate and exposure to chemicals may also cause skin changes. Exposure to the sun can cause non-cancerous skin growths, thickening of the skin and pigment changes.
It can also cause skin cancers, including basal cell epithelioma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Is it too late to protect my skin now?
Because most skin changes are related to sun exposure, prevention is a lifelong process.
Prevent sunburn if at all possible, use a good quality sunscreen when outdoors, even in the winter, and wear protective clothing.
Good nutrition and adequate fluids are also helpful.
Remember that dehydration increases the risk of skin injury. Keep skin moist with lotions and do not use soaps that are heavily perfumed.
However, be particularly careful when using bath oils as they may cause you to slip and fall in the bath.
