Internal or intrinsic skin ageing.
Aging of the skin is a normal, continuous process.  Wrinkling, increased pigmentation (liver spots), looseness,
dryness and thinning are some of the general signs of skin aging. Other possible but not
necessary signs may be hair loss, hair graying and excessive nail hardness or
brittleness.
Internal or intrinsic skin aging is caused by hereditary and biological factors. The
onset of the following progressive changes takes place within the third decade of age,
although they are not noticeable for many years.
 Collagen production decreases. Collagen is one of the most
important proteins of connective tissue of our
body, including the skin. It represents 30% of the overall body protein. Collagen is a
fibrous, structural protein presenting twenty seven different types and numerous
properties. Among them we can mention its major role in the healing process. Collagen is
the means, which keeps the cells of a tissue connected in a proper structure. In fact,
the term is Greek and means "glue generator". Lack of adequate amounts of collagen leads
to skin looseness and impairment of healing ability. However, sagging skin can also occur
due to loss of under laid bone tissue.
Elasticity of the skin declines. Elastin is another of a great
importance protein in connective tissue. Its name is derived from its major property
which is elasticity. Elastin allows body tissues to resume their shape after stretching
or contracting. Elastin helps skin to return to its original state, when it is poked or
pinched. The decline of skin elasticity results in the appearance of wrinkles.
Biochemical changes
occur. Reduction of components of the skin and decline of certain functions may
take place due to aging. Progressive impairment of water-retainability occurs and
biochemical elements of the intercellular structure such as glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acids, polysaccharides and many others are depleted and
not adequately restored.
DNA and RNA get
affected. Because of the DNA
and RNA changes cell reproduction and
tissue renovation slows down.
Unwanted hair may
appear. Appearance of unexpected hair occurs, especially on the nose, ears and
breast in females.
Loss of underlying
fat. This change results in loss of skin firmness, in hollowed cheeks or eye
sockets and in thin and transparent skin. The latest makes anatomic elements, such as
veins and bones, more apparent and prominent.
Sweating glands
decline. This condition causes skin dryness, itching and lack of ability to
adjust body temperature.
Hair color
changes. Graying hair appears and gradually gets white. This happens, because
the production of melanin that gives the characteristic hair color declines.
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