Skin Changes That Occur With Aging

Every part of the body changes as people age, including the skin. In fact, changes in the skin are by far the most obvious alterations a person will undergo as he or she progresses from childhood and teenage years into adulthood and beyond. Some of these changes can be made less obvious with good skin and health care and treatments, while others occur no matter what a person does to prevent them.

Two of the most common and unavoidable changes in the skin that come with age are loosening of the skin and the appearance of wrinkles and other fine lines. As the skin ages, its elasticity is lessened and sagging begins. This process is made much more prominent through frequent sun exposure, which can also make skin appear dry and leathery.

Wrinkles and lines happen to every person, but some people appear to be afflicted with them worse than others. Genetics plays a huge role in the appearance of wrinkles. If a person's mother and father had a number of lines and wrinkles on their faces, necks, hands and other body parts, it is likely that the trait will be passed on. However, it is also possible to bring about the occurrence of wrinkles and lines through lifestyle choices. Those who spend a great deal of time out in the sun are more likely to have wrinkles that appear earlier in life, and individuals who smoke are also far more prone to the appearance of lines.

Another skin change that occurs with age in many people is the appearance of dark spots on the arms, neck, face and especially the hands. These spots are hyperpigmented areas of the skin that can also be avoided through decreased sun exposure. Called "sun spots" or "liver spots," these areas tend to appear in people as they age since skin begins to thin and become more pale.

Varicose veins and other obvious blood vessels also begin to appear in the legs as people - particularly women - age. These veins move closer to the surface of the skin, which thins with age, and are more obvious as the years go by. Many times blood vessels in the layers of the skin also become more fragile and begin to burst, leaving behind purple spots and bruises.

Leading a healthy life, complete with eating a good diet, drinking plenty of water, getting regular exercise, never picking up the habit of smoking and spending minimal time out in the sun, can help avoid many of these skin issues. However, not all are avoidable, and there are treatment options available through doctors and dermatologists that can help improve the appearance of a person's skin at any age.

Dermatology writer, Ryan Bloom, writes on numerous skin care topics. He suggests you also check out St. Paul Dermatology for more skin topics and tips. Providing quality skin care products and skincare treatment reviews online.