The Ageing Process of Skin: What Happens and Why
Introduction
Getting older is something we all experience, and our skin is one of the first places we notice changes. Wrinkles, fine lines, dryness, and changes in texture are part of a natural process influenced by both our genetics and the environments we live in.
Scientists describe these as:
Intrinsic ageing – changes that happen naturally as part of getting older.
Extrinsic ageing – changes caused by external factors such as the sun, lifestyle, and environment.
This article will walk you through how skin ages, what drives those changes, and what the research shows.
Intrinsic Ageing – The Natural Clock
Even without outside influences, our skin changes as we age:
Less collagen and elastin – Collagen and elastin are proteins that keep skin firm and elastic. Studies show that collagen production drops steadily over time, especially after mid-life, leading to thinner, less resilient skin (Shuster et al., Br J Dermatol, 1975; Varani et al., J Invest Dermatol, 2006).
Slower cell turnover – Skin cells don’t renew as quickly, which makes the skin appear duller and less even (Farage et al., Clin Interv Aging, 2008).
Natural cell “wear and tear” – Ageing skin cells become less efficient and can release inflammatory signals that affect surrounding tissue (Wlaschek et al., J Dermatol Sci, 2001).
Extrinsic Ageing – The Environment’s Role
External factors speed up visible ageing, often more than the natural clock itself:
Sun exposure (photoaging): UV light breaks down collagen and elastin, disrupts DNA, and triggers enzymes that damage skin structure. This is the leading cause of premature wrinkles and pigmentation changes (Kammeyer & Luiten, Clin Exp Dermatol, 2015).
Pollution and smoking: Both increase oxidative stress, which accelerates damage to skin cells and collagen (Vierkötter et al., J Invest Dermatol, 2010).
Lifestyle: Poor nutrition, stress, and lack of sleep can contribute to skin looking less vibrant over time.
The Combined Effect
Both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing processes interact. Research shows that by middle age, sun-exposed skin often looks significantly older than protected areas, even in the same person (Fisher et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2002).
Other changes include:
Reduced moisture retention → skin feels drier.
Loss of elasticity → sagging or folding.
Slower healing → small injuries take longer to recover.
What This Means for You
Skin ageing is normal: Everyone experiences it, though the rate and degree vary between individuals.
Prevention and protection help: Sunscreen, not smoking, balanced nutrition, and gentle skincare are all supported by research as ways to maintain skin health.
Professional guidance matters: Only a qualified health professional can assess your individual skin, medical history, and discuss treatment options.
Key Takeaways
Skin ageing is caused by a mix of natural (intrinsic) and environmental (extrinsic) factors.
Collagen and elastin loss, UV exposure, oxidative stress, and hormonal changes all play roles.
Research confirms that lifestyle choices (like sun protection and not smoking) can reduce the impact of extrinsic ageing.
It’s not possible to stop skin ageing, but understanding the science helps make informed, healthy choices.
References (Peer-Reviewed)
Shuster, S., Black, M. M., & McVitie, E. (1975). The influence of age and sex on skin thickness, skin collagen and density. British Journal of Dermatology, 93(6), 639–643.
Varani, J., et al. (2006). Decreased collagen production in chronologically aged skin. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 126(4), 892–901.
Farage, M. A., et al. (2008). Intrinsic and extrinsic factors in skin ageing: A review. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 3(2), 219–229.
Wlaschek, M., et al. (2001). Solar UV irradiation and dermal photoaging. Journal of Dermatological Science, 23(Suppl 1), S29–S38.
Kammeyer, A., & Luiten, R. M. (2015). Oxidation events and skin aging. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 40(6), 600–609.
Vierkötter, A., et al. (2010). Airborne particle exposure and extrinsic skin aging. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 130(12), 2719–2726.
Fisher, G. J., et al. (2002). Mechanisms of photoaging and chronological skin aging. New England Journal of Medicine, 346(9), 836–847.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice. All skin treatments carry risks. Please consult a qualified health professional to discuss your personal circumstances.