1. Aging of the Skin Causes and Prevention of Aging Skin

2. Why does skin age?  It is estimated that 15% of skin aging comes from heredity and 80%-85% is caused by the sun rays.  Other factors include the environment, diet, stress and overall lifestyle.  As we age, collagen and elastin fibers weaken, causing sagging and wrinkling of the skin.

3. Sun and the Skin ► Collagen and skin fibers weaken at a faster rate when exposed to the sun frequently. ► Sun rays reach the skin in two different forms UVA and UVB Rays.

4. UVA Rays ► Also known as Ultra Violet Aging rays. ► Deep penetrating rays, can go through glass, and reflect from water. ► Weakens skin tissue, causing wrinkles. ► All races need skin protection, although Caucasians often show signs of aging much faster than other races.

5. Melanocytes ► Melanocytes are skin color pigment, the amount, type, size and distribution determines skin color. ► When exposed to the sun for periods of time, the skin produces more melanin for protection. ► Depending on the body’s ability and rate to produce melanin, determines if a person tans or burns.

6. UVB Rays ► Also known as Ultra Violet Burning rays. ► Do not penetrate as deep as UVA, BUT are just as damaging to the skin. ► Sunburns and suntans are the result of UVA rays ► Provides vitamin D and other important minerals for the body.

7. Advising Clients about Skin Protection ► Some clients rely on cosmetologist for their skin care needs, it is appropriate to advise, when necessary, about skin care precautions. ► Recommendations include: a) On a daily basis, wear a moisturizer with sunscreen with at least 15 SPF. b) Avoid prolonged exposure during peak hours of the day, 10am – 3pm.

8. Skin Protection ► Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before spending prolong periods outside. Skin may react to sunscreen chemicals if applied after exposure for a period of time. ► Children under 6 months, should not be exposed to the sun for long periods of time. ► Sunscreen should be include the full spectrum to filter out both UVA and UVB rays.

9. When to Recommend Seeing a Physician ► It is appropriate to suggest clients to see a physician if any of these changes occur: ► A – Asymmetry (Changes in the shape of a mole) ► B – Border (Changes in edges of the mole, could be rugged) ► C – Color (Changes in the color of a mole) ► D – Diameter (Changes in the size of a mole) ► Moles can be flat or raised and can be red, brown or black)

10. The “ABCD’s of Skin Cancer Signs” ► Cosmetologists can be the first line of defense for clients, if signs of client’s skin changes occur, refer to a physician. ► The American Cancer Society recommends using the ABCD Cancer Checklist to help recognize changes in the skin that may need to be seen by a physician.

11. How the Environment Affects Skin ► Pollutants from cars, factories, and secondhand smoke affect the surface appearance of skin and change the health of the underlying cells and tissues, which in turn, speeds up the aging process

12. Lifestyle and Diet ► Illegal drugs, drinking, smoking and diet all influence the skin by: a) Premature aging. b) Weakening of blood vessels and small capillaries. c) Decrease circulation. d) Skin may be yellowish or gray in color. e) Dehydrates the skin.

13. Telangiectasias ► Broken capillaries, (spider veins), can be caused by: a) Overuse of alcohol b) Smoking c) Excessive sun exposure d) Extreme changes in body temperature

14. Dermatitis ► Many types of Dermatitis are often a health hazard for cosmetologist. ► Can be caused by excessive hand washing, shampooing clients, working with salon chemicals etc. ► Natural oil, (sebum) is stripped away, causing excessive dryness of skin. ► Prevention: Wear gloves when working with chemicals, shampooing clients, and when working with cleansers and detergents.

15. Allergic Skin Reactions ► Repeated use of chemicals, haircolor, acrylic liquids can cause an allergic skin reactions. ► Hands that stay damp for long periods of time, often chap and become sore and crack. ► Prevention: Do not excessively wash hands, dry hands completely, and wear a moisturizing hand cream, for loss of natural skin oils.

16. Works Cited ► Milady’s Textbook, 2007 copyrighted