The quest for youthful skin requires a nuanced understanding of many aging factors influenced by time, genetics, and the environment.
Today, we have many “anti-aging” serums and potions to choose from in the beauty world. However, there isn't a great deal of information around how these products actually work really, let alone holistically within your current regimen of skincare, topical prescriptions, and nutritional supplements. At Parallel, we want to empower you with meaningful information about aging to help you find the products that are right for you. I That’s why Parallel’s science and medical teams have collaborated to create a foundational categorization system called The 7 Hallmarks of Skin Aging™. Each of these hallmarks plays a unique role in the story of aging skin; that is, to address skin aging wholly and completely, one must consider all seven elements.
So what should your current anti-aging regimen do for you? Let’s embark on a comprehensive journey through the multifaceted dimensions of skin aging.
- Inflammation or Inflammaging
Chronic inflammation, or inflammaging, is a key hallmark of aging skin. The skin, being our body's largest organ, is perpetually exposed to environmental stressors, UV radiation, and pollutants. Over time, this exposure triggers an inflammatory response that not only accelerates the aging process but also contributes to a plethora of skin concerns, from redness to loss of elasticity.
To fight inflammation, antioxidants have generally taken center stage. Skincare formulations enriched with potent antioxidants such as vitamin C and E act as guardians, neutralizing free radicals and mitigating the inflammatory cascade. By incorporating these ingredients into your routine, you lay the foundation for a resilient, inflammation-resistant skin barrier. Phages uniquely tackle this hallmark of aging, as well. By precisely targeting the bacteria that is causing your skin issues, phages can reduce redness and inflammation.
- Loss of Skin Elasticity
The second hallmark, loss of skin elasticity, manifests as the skin’s inability to maintain structure after encountering stress. This occurs as the essential proteins collagen and elastin, responsible for skin firmness and suppleness, dwindle. Collagen acts as the architectural framework, providing structural support, while elastin ensures the skin's ability to bounce back.
To restore elasticity, we can turn to retinoids and peptides. Retinoids, derivatives of vitamin A, stimulate collagen production and encourage skin renewal. Peptides, the building blocks of proteins, aid in rebuilding the skin's structural matrix. Regular use of these ingredients promotes elasticity, minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Collagen Loss or Loss of Density
Collagen, akin to a scaffolding system, forms the foundation of our skin. The third hallmark involves the gradual loss of collagen, leading to a reduction in skin density. This depletion contributes to sagging and a less plump appearance.
To revitalize collagen production, peptides and growth factors are a dynamic duo. Peptides, with their cell-communicating properties, signal the skin to produce more collagen. Growth factors, naturally occurring proteins, stimulate cell proliferation and regeneration. Together, they orchestrate a symphony of renewal, replenishing collagen stores and restoring skin density.
- Change in Skin Texture or Topography
Aging skin often exhibits changes in texture, with roughness and unevenness becoming more pronounced. The fourth hallmark, alteration in skin topography, calls for targeted interventions to unveil a smoother, refined complexion.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) emerge as hero ingredients in the battle against uneven skin texture. AHAs, derived from fruits and milk, gently exfoliate the skin's surface, promoting cell turnover. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deeper, unclogging pores and refining texture. Through regular exfoliation, you reveal the fresh, luminous skin beneath the surface.
- Dyspigmentation
The fifth hallmark, dyspigmentation, encompasses a spectrum of concerns from uneven skin tone to hyperpigmentation and age spots. Over time, factors such as sun exposure and hormonal changes contribute to these variations in pigmentation.
Skincare formulations featuring ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, hydroquinone, and alpha arbutin take center stage in the battle against dyspigmentation. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, acts as a multitasker, reducing inflammation and inhibiting melanin production. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, brightens the complexion and tackles dark spots. Alpha arbutin, derived from bearberry, inhibits melanin formation, promoting a more uniform skin tone.
- Subcutaneous Fat Loss or Volume Loss
Volume loss in the subcutaneous fat layer, the sixth hallmark, results in a sagging and hollowed appearance. As we age, the natural fullness of youthful skin diminishes, leading to a loss of vitality.
A powerful combination to rebuild volume loss is hyaluronic acid and peptides. Hyaluronic acid, a hydration powerhouse, attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin from within. Peptides, with their collagen-boosting properties, contribute to a firmer, more voluminous complexion. These ingredients, often found in Parallel’s dermatologist-formulated products, work synergistically to hydrate and revitalize the skin.
- Xerosis or Skin Dryness: Nurturing the Skin's Moisture Barrier
The seventh hallmark, xerosis or severe dryness, poses a common challenge in aging skin. Factors such as a decrease in oil production and changes in the skin's natural barrier function contribute to this loss of moisture.
To restore moisture balance, skincare solutions featuring ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides play a pivotal role. Hyaluronic acid, a moisture magnet, binds water molecules, ensuring optimal hydration. Glycerin attracts and locks in moisture, promoting a supple texture. Ceramides fortify the skin's natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and fostering a resilient, well-hydrated complexion.
In navigating skin aging, understanding and addressing diverse factors of aging is key. Parallel Health’s 7 Hallmarks of Aging™, therefore, takes a holistic, more precise, and more nuanced approach to skin aging. By comprehensively acknowledging and addressing inflammation, enhancing elasticity, boosting collagen, refining texture, correcting dyspigmentation, restoring volume, and combating dryness, Parallel empowers you to create an anti-aging regimen that is precise and personalized to your needs.
