Aging stems from a few fundamental shifts in the body’s connective tissues, the way the skin builds its support proteins, and how sunlight and sleep habits affect renewal. This view comes from Oksana Chashchina, a leading cosmetologist who heads the aesthetic medicine and dermatovenereology department at Atlas clinics, who spoke with socialbites.ca about what drives visible aging.
External aging is closely tied to alterations in the body’s main structural proteins, especially collagen and elastin. These proteins form the matrix that keeps skin firm and elastic. Over time, the network wears thin and loses its resilience, making lines, sagging, and a loss of fullness more noticeable as the years pass.
To illustrate, the idea is like a thread that gradually becomes finer and more prone to breaking. Old fibers accumulate while the production of new ones slows down, which we see as wrinkles, hollowed cheeks, and skin that feels less springy. This process is a natural part of aging, but its pace can be influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors.
Another important piece of the puzzle is exposure to ultraviolet radiation. UV rays drive a lasting inflammatory response in the skin, leading to pigment changes, dilation of tiny blood vessels, and an acceleration of aging. Because of this, protection from the sun remains essential even when the day looks chilly or overcast, and sunscreen should be a daily habit across the year.
Sleep health also plays a crucial role. When sleep is disrupted or insufficient, the body’s ability to repair itself diminishes. Melatonin, which helps protect cells and support antioxidant activity, is produced less reliably, reducing the skin’s natural defense against aging and environmental stress. This underscores the idea that prevention starts with good sleep hygiene as much as with topical care.
Chashchina emphasizes a holistic approach to aging prevention. Rather than treating symptoms alone, she promotes a comprehensive plan that starts at the first sign of aging, such as early lines or uneven pigmentation, and continues through ongoing care. A balanced lifestyle matters: proper hydration, nutritious foods, regular physical activity, and consistent sleep patterns all support healthier skin and better long term results.
Beyond these basics, the shape and color of the skin are influenced by chronic stress levels, management of chronic diseases, and consistent skin care routines. Each factor interplays with the others to shape how quickly visible aging appears and how well the skin maintains its bounce and tone. The idea is to align daily habits with skin health so that prevention becomes a steady, attainable process rather than a one-off treatment plan.
In practical terms, experts advocate a regimen that includes a focus on nutrition and hydration, a steady exercise routine, adequate rest, and protective skincare. Routine checkups for skin health, mindful stress management, and staying aware of changes in texture or pigment can help tailor prevention to individual needs. The goal is to support the skin’s natural renewal cycle and reduce the impact of aging on appearance over time. The discussion acknowledges that aging is a long, cumulative process and encourages early, consistent actions to preserve vitality and confidence over the years.
As a final note, former aesthetic specialists remind readers that questions about when to start certain cosmetic interventions, such as fillers for men or women, should be discussed with a qualified practitioner who can tailor recommendations to individual concerns and timelines. This balanced approach helps ensure decisions align with personal health, comfort, and expectations. [Attribution: Atlas clinics]