What is the science of premature aging?Updated a year ago
Most of the causes of premature aging are related to exposure to unstable molecules or atoms that cause a chain reaction of damage to cells.
You’ll often hear these molecules referred to as free radicals or as reactive oxygen species (ROS) - while the two terms aren’t interchangeable, there’s a lot of overlap between the two categories.
These unstable molecules start a chain reaction of damage to the DNA inside your cells, breaking them down and resulting in all kinds of impaired function. When it impacts the skin, this type of damage harms its integrity and ability to regenerate healthily.
It impacts the collagen in the top layers of the skin, leading to a general breakdown and fine-line formation. It also impacts the formation of new collagen in between the dermis and epidermis, hurting connectivity and resulting in deeper wrinkles.
It can also harm the skin in other ways, such as increasing inflammation which leads to skin sensitivity and hyperpigmentation, not to mention serious risks to your health like skin cancer.