Yet another sign of aging is the appearance of crepey skin. A different look from that of good old-fashioned wrinkles, crepey skin takes on a thin, crinkled, crepe papery texture and appearance.
Read on to find out what causes crepey skin and how to tame it.
Crepey skin, much like wrinkles, is caused by a variety of things:
The biggest reason for crepey skin is UV damage from the sun or UV radiation from tanning beds.
Harmful UV rays damage the skin by breaking down elastin, which along with collagen, are the proteins that build underlying connective tissue and keep skin firm.
While natural aging, genetics and all the other causes listed certainly contribute to the onset of crepey skin, UV sun damage over time is the primary cause.
The first areas of the body where crepey skin is notorious for showing up is on the underside of the arms (along with sagging skin commonly referred to as “bat wings”) and legs.
Other prime target areas crepey skin appears is on the neck, face, and backs of hands.
The more skin is exposed to UV rays, the higher the risk for developing crepey skin.
Because crepey skin is the result of elastin and collagen loss, it needs consistent treatment to improve skin texture and appearance.
Without fillers or surgical intervention, here are some things you can do to fight back against crepey skin.
You’ve heard it a million times, but sunscreen is one of the most important weapons you can use to combat crepey skin.
Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. Apply frequently and generously on sunny and cloudy days.
Dry skin is basically an invitation for fine lines, wrinkles and crepey skin to form on your skin.
It’s important to keep skin clean as well as moisturized and hydrated.
Use a rich moisturizing sunscreen before heading outdoors for the day.
At night, reach for a retinol-based product to stimulate collagen production and skin cell turnover. To avoid flakiness, follow up by applying hyaluronic acid which locks in moisture to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is always the goal but not always the reality.
Supplement your diet with skin friendly vitamins A, C, D and E, along with Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil).
Getting enough sleep each night not only keeps you alert and functioning at your best each day, but the extra z’s help keep crepey skin and wrinkles away as skin regenerates each night.
Getting enough exercise is not only good for your heart and overall health, but it also reduces stress and yes, helps improve the appearance of skin.
Increased blood flow and circulation gives you a healthier glow.
Wrap Up
Crepey skin may be an inevitable sign of what’s to come in the golden years, but until then, there are ways you can keep your skin looking firm and smooth.
For a consultation with professional estheticians who can help make a noticeable difference in the appearance of your skin, call Laura Skincare in Petaluma today.