managing and preventing aging and wrinkling of the skin of the hands. According to the Family Magazine Service, citing Ferraro, dermatologists have shared the best tips for managing and preventing aging and wrinkling of the skin of the hands.
Wrinkling and thinning of the skin on the hands is known as crepey skin and is a preventable and even treatable skin condition!
Crepey skin describes a skin condition in which the skin appears thin and wrinkled and typically lacks the elasticity, thickness, and firmness of younger skin. It is primarily an aesthetic concern, but it can also indicate potential health problems. Since it is usually caused by severe sun damage, people with this condition may be at increased risk of developing skin cancer. Additionally, the skin is more prone to bruising and tearing due to its thinness and loss of elasticity, which can lead to infection if not properly cared for.
This condition is primarily caused by sun exposure. Dry, thin skin is not just a result of aging, but also depends on lifestyle factors such as sun exposure and smoking. People with dry skin, as well as those with fair skin tones, are more at risk of this skin condition. Sun exposure causes the skin to lose volume due to dehydration. As a result of sun damage, the skin no longer stores water evenly on its surface because the skin’s integrity is compromised. This leads to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, proteins that hold water under the skin and help the skin maintain its structure.
Any exposure to UV rays, even from tanning beds, can lead to dry, thinning skin. Genetics are also a factor. If your parents have this skin condition, it's a good idea to think about preventing it. Many women also notice dry, thinning skin around menopause, as the drop in estrogen at that time accelerates the loss of collagen and elastin, causing the skin to thin and lose moisture and oil.
This process begins around middle age and worsens as you age. Skin elasticity is at its best until around age 30 and begins to decline in your 40s. Dryness and thinning of the skin caused by UV damage usually appear around the eyes, chest, and back of the hands. Some people also see the effects above the knees and on the inner sides of their arms
Using sunscreen is one of the best ways to prevent skin damage. Another effective method, according to dermatologists, is to exercise. Along with sunscreen, it is best to wear sunglasses, a hat, and long-sleeved clothing. Sunscreen has a short shelf life and is not a permanent barrier to protect the skin, so staying out of the sun is a more effective method. Apply sunscreen to protect areas not covered by clothing and accessories. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher are the best options for protection from the sun's rays. While creams, moisturizers, lotions, and especially sunscreens are helpful in maintaining healthy skin, it is almost impossible to eliminate all signs of aging.
However, with regular use, topical products containing ingredients such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, peptides, growth factors, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants can help stimulate collagen production, thus improving skin quality. It usually takes several months to see the effects of these products. A common misconception is that only expensive skin care products can combat dry skin, when in fact, consistent use is much more important than the price of the product.
When shopping for a moisturizer, choose products that are hydrating. A big mistake people make when trying to improve dry skin is using oily products. These oils only affect the outermost layer of the skin. Dermatologists recommend products containing niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, as a way to help reduce dryness and thinning skin. Niacinamide can also be taken as a supplement.
If you’re looking for cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of your skin, consider using dermal fillers instead of fillers. Unlike fillers, these products don’t just add volume, they also deeply hydrate the skin. Any injectable product that stimulates collagen production is also suitable for treatment. Options like radiofrequency skin tightening and non-abrasion fractional lasers also stimulate the body’s natural healing process, leading to the production of new collagen and elastin, which thickens the skin and increases its elasticity.
To improve the appearance of certain sensitive areas, such as around the eyes, experts recommend neuromodulators such as Botox to reduce wrinkles. In general, remember that while the appearance of dry, thin skin can be improved to some extent, the aging process is ongoing and inevitable. It is important to have realistic expectations when using any anti-aging product. Aging is a natural part of life, and running away from it will only give your face an artificial and unnatural look.
