Inflammation & Skin aging
What is skin inflammation?
Inflammation is an immune reaction where cytokines (a number of substances that are secreted by certain cells of the immune system and have an effect on other cells), white blood cells and lymphocytes respond to a foreign invader. There are also release hormones like Tumour Necrosis Factors, Interleukin Hormones and C-reactive Proteins to name a few. Once released, these hormones all start to work to protect the body.
Inflammation has an effect all over the body, but for now we will be focussing on inflammation in the skin. Inflammation is a natural and necessary protective and restorative response to tissue injury and foreign substances such as toxins and bacteria. Without inflammation our skin would not be able to protect itself. Inflammation is the first phase of the healing process. Healing is an interaction of complex cellular processes that generates resurfacing, reconstitution and restoration of the stretchy strength of injured skin.
When the skin is exposed to environmental stimuli like ultraviolet (UV) light, soaps, detergents and allergens, the cells in the skin produce a variety of inflammatory hormones. These stimuli lead to inflamed and red skin, because they cause skin damage.
When we expose our skins to chronic inflammation through constant environmental & dietary exposure, there is an excess release of these inflammatory hormones. They cause a prolonged and harmful inflammatory response. Yes, inflammation is necessary to protect the body, however, this constant over- supply of inflammation could lead to a significant skin aging process as well as many other skin and health problems.
We need to have acute inflammation as it is a natural reaction to repair the skin after being exposed to the sun or cuts or grazes. Some people have an immune system which reacts more aggressively to damage, chemicals or other environmental toxins and unhealthy dietary food choices. While inflammation is a useful short-term response, chronic inflammation can be detrimental and damages the skin tissue.
What damage can inflammation inflict on the skin?
- Speeds up the aging process
- Decreases elasticity of your skin & causes wrinkles
- Creates Dermal sensitivity
- Redness
- Eczema
- Chemical sensitivity
Which environmental exposures can trigger inflammation in the skin?
- UV damage from sun exposure
- Cuts and bruises
- Infections
- Environmental toxins, e.g. pollution
- Chemical sensitivity found in perfumed products
- Oxidative stress – an excess of free radicals can trigger chronic inflammation
- Synthetic chemicals in personal-care products like soaps and body lotions
- Fragrance sensitivities – often manifest only later in life
What visible signs of inflammation can you look out for?
- Itching and rashes
- Prolonged redness and swelling
- Prolonged wound healing
- Skin dehydration
How does one decrease inflammation for healthier looking skin?
We all want to have great skin and many of us are looking for the secret to longevity and anti-aging. Whilst no fountain of youth exists, there are some techniques one can follow to help with de-aging the skin. The main answer is to control inflammatory responses in the skin with diet and lifestyle interventions. We all know “you are what you eat”. We also have to stay out of the sun during high exposure times, like between 11am & 3pm. It is also important to follow a proper skincare routine and have regular exfoliation and de-aging treatments.
External Skin care at The Goddess Factor®
Firstly, please book a FREE consultation so that our highly trained Somatologists can assess your skin problem first hand. You will be given a bespoke treatment programme and product advice suited to your skin type and condition.
Your regime should always consist of good Cleansing, Exfoliating and Moisturising. Products like Sun Screen, Serum, Hyaluronic Acid or Vitamin C will be suggested in addition to your normal skin care range.
Between all our de-aging devices and treatments of Radio Frequency, Mezotix™ Thermal Ablation, Microneedling, Dermaplaning, Microdermabrasion, Skin Peels and Facials you will find your skin niche!
The same with our Dr Gobac® Cosmeceuticals and Lamelle Laboratories ranges, there is a product for every skin issue!
In some cases, where medical advice is required, we will refer you to Dr Mayekizo, our Dermatologist. This will ensure that you get the right advice, especially if you have a tendency to chronic inflammation. Always remember, the body can heal itself, therefore the skin is very clever in healing if you allow it to!
We do know, however – ”The aging process doesn’t stop!”
Internal Skin care
It is important to look after your skin from the inside. What you put into your body has a great effect on the inflammatory response in your skin.
There are certain foods and lifestyle interventions that could aggravate inflammation and speed up the aging process. These include:
- Refined sugars and sugary foods
- Saturated fats
- Fried foods
- Processed meats
- Sugary juices and Carbonated drinks
- Artificial sweeteners
- Food preservatives and additives
- Alcohol
- Drugs & Chronic medication
- Smoking
- Sedentary lifestyle i.e. lack of exercise
- Stress
What can you include to help manage inflammation from a lifestyle and dietary point of view?
- Limit or avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates
- Include water
- Stop the junk foods
- Be active
- Include whole grains
- Include loads of plant-based foods (antioxidants and fibre)
- Good sleep routine
- Sunscreen
- Include these 7 anti-aging foods in your diet regularly:
- Oats
- Oranges
- Avocados
- Lean proteins
- Brussel sprouts or cabbage
- Salmon or pilchards
- Grapes
- Consider using a daily Omega 3 or Krill Oil fatty acid supplement
We only have one skin and even though it is a very clever organ we still have the responsibility to look after it. Making small changes daily and improving your dietary and lifestyle habits can make all the difference and aid you in aging gracefully.
info@thegoddessfactor.co.za or WhatsApp 063 292 8968 www.thegoddessfactor.co.za
healthy eating habits & lifestyle choices.
support@tanyadietician.co.za or WhatsApp 074 342 0986 www.tyhn.co.za
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