As we age, we accumulate knowledge and experiences that can enrich our lives. Unfortunately, the passage of time also takes a toll on our bodies. Many people are aware of some of the causes that accelerate aging, such as exposure to the sun and other harmful elements, and the results of aging, such as wrinkled skin and weakened bodies. However, many people don’t consider how aging works within our bodies. Aging can be defined as the gradual changes in an organism that harm the body’s ability to function. These significant changes occur at the cellular level, and Aubrey de Grey, a Cambridge researcher and theoretician on the study of aging, has identified the seven classes of aging damage in the body. Here are three types of cellular changes that are likely to reveal your age.
1. Cell Loss and Shrinking Tissue
Cell division is a process by which the cells divide and create new, healthy cells to replace cells that are worn out. Over time, cell division slows down, and old cells die faster than new cells are able to be produced. This causes the body’s tissues to shrink and weaken, and just one of the many effects of this is reduced volume in the face as the connective tissues that support the structure of the skin deteriorate.
Exercise can help improve cell functioning and division. A TIME Magazine article, “How Exercise Works at the Cellular Level,” explains the findings of two studies that suggest how exercise is beneficial to the body’s cells.
If you have wrinkles and fine lines as a result of lost facial volume, Dr. Verebelyi offers injectable fillers to plump the skin and improve these signs of aging.
2. Too Many Cells (Cellular Senescence)
Cellular senescence is when cells reach the point that they can no longer divide but refuse to die. When this happens, there is no room for the healthy cells to divide and create new cells.
To remove damaged cells and reveal healthy, beautiful skin, Colorado Skin & Vein offers a variety of treatments, such as dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and CO2 Fractional Skin Resurfacing.
3. Extracellular Protein Cross-Links
Sometimes there are too many cross-linking proteins between cells in a tissue, causing rigidity and a loss of elasticity in the tissue. When this occurs in the arteries it can lead to high blood pressure, and when this occurs in the skin it can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin. Extracellular protein cross-links are also seen in the process of wound repair when collagen (a protein) cross-links to form scar tissue.
If you are experiencing skin laxity and wrinkles, injectable fillers and neurotoxins and Ulthera skin tightening can help restore a more youthful appearance. Scars can also be improved with injectable fillers or scar revision treatment.
Dr. Verebelyi’s practice offers numerous treatments to improve signs of aging so that you can look as young as you feel! For more information, please call (303) 683-3235 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation.
