Skin types are benchmarks that help us determine the best course of treatment for our skin. If you ask most people how many skin types there are, they’ll probably name the five major categories; oily, combination, dry, normal and sensitive. keep in mind there are many types that fall in between these categories.
However, there’s one more major category that lots of people fail to mention. Perhaps it’s because they don’t think it’s important, yet or they simply aren’t aware of it. Well, if you didn’t know, now you do. It’s the mature Skin type. Yes, it is a skin type because characteristically, it differs significantly from the other five.
So how do you know if they fall into the mature skin type category? Well, maturing skin usually begins to manifest later in life, and of course, the timing varies from person to person because genetics and the environment play a huge role in when one begins to exhibit signs of maturing skin. Does it happen to everyone? Absolutely, if you’re fortunate you too will one day experience the essence of mature skin.
As we age our skin loses collagen (the protein that’s responsible for the plump and pillowy skin of our teenage years), elastin ( responsible for the skin’s ability to stretch), and fat. This leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging of the skin.
Furthermore, the cell’s ability to rejuvenate declines and cell turnover slows down significantly. The skin’s oil production also decreases, leaving the skin dry and dull. And like every other skin type, mature skin needs its share of tender loving care.
Practices to support mature skin
1. Wear SPF daily to protect your skin cells against the rapid aging effects of UV rays.
2.Cleanse your face with a gentle, soap-free cleanser.
3. Use a mild moisturizing soap for the lower body.
4. Use a gentle, appropriate exfoliant on the face and body once to twice per week.
5. Moisturize daily with rich, emollient cremes to restore lost moisture.
6. Use a humidifier in your room to moisten the dry air.
7. Use products and eat foods that naturally support and stimulate your body’s collagen and elastin production.
The key is knowing your skin and being aware of the changes that occur in order to identify when you fall into this much less talked about skin type category.
Dixie Lincoln- Nichols is a biological science educator, health and wellbeing consultant and Qigong instructor. Her work has been featured in media outlets like, Oprah Mag, SELF, Yahoo and more. She is the founder of Inside Outer Beauty Market, a multi-cultutal retailer curating and creating products to support the body inside and out. Visit the site at www.iobeautymarket.com