Skin Health Factors, Aging, and Daily Skin Care

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards reviewing intrinsic and extrinsic skin aging factors, hormonal and environmental influences, and daily skin care regimens.

Extrinsic Aging

Skin deterioration influenced by external factors within an individual's control, such as UV exposure, smoking, alcohol intake, stress, diet, and climate.

Photoaging

Skin deterioration caused by cumulative UV exposure—responsible for an estimated $80\%$ of facial aging—that breaks down elastin and collagen fibers, leading to sagging and loss of resilience.

Elastosis

The thickening of elastic fibers within the dermis, frequently caused by smoking.

Vasodilation

An increase in blood flow that can worsen skin color, tone, and existing conditions like rosacea; commonly triggered by chronic alcohol overuse.

Oxidative Stress

Damage induced by environmental pollutants (such as polycyclic hydrocarbons and ozone) that creates free radicals and inflammation, leading to premature aging and disorders like dermatitis.

Intrinsic Aging

The natural aging process governed by internal genetics and hormones, resulting in smooth texture, moderate wrinkles, and some sagging without signs of photoaging.

Genes

Inherited DNA sequences from parents that dictate skin traits and disease risks; humans possess between $20,000$ and $25,000$ different genes, with two copies of each sequence.

Perimenopause

The phase beginning in a woman's $40\text{s}$ characterized by declining hormone production, which directly reduces collagen and elastin synthesis.

Andropause

The period beginning in the $40\text{s}$ in men during which natural hormone production decreases.

Phytoestrogens

Plant molecules that mimic estrogen in the body, found in sources such as black cohosh, wild yam, sage, clover, and soybeans.

Estrone (E1)

A weak form of estrogen present in women after menopause that can be converted into estradiol.

Estradiol (E2)

The strongest form of estrogen, produced by the ovaries, which can be synthesized from estrone.

Estriol (E3)

A form of estrogen produced during pregnancy that cannot be converted to estradiol.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates metabolism, body temperature, central nervous system, and cellular health; dysfunction causes hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Phosphates

Chemicals present in carbonated drinks that cause the skin to age prematurely.

Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs)

Enzymes stimulated by UV radiation and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that degrade collagen and elastin fibers in the skin.

Telangiectasia

Dilated and broken capillaries visible on the skin, aggravated by cumulative UV radiation, alcohol-related liver disease, and high-altitude environments.

Circadian Rhythms

Cycles regulated by the body's $24$-hour internal clock via the hypothalamus, responding to light and dark cues to manage sleep/wake patterns and skin cell renewal and repair.

Ambient Humidity

The water content level in the air; low levels deplete moisture from the stratum corneum causing fine wrinkles, while high levels combined with heat can cause rashes, irritation, and fungal infections.

Glycation

The non-enzymatic crosslinking of glucose molecules to proteins, creating advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that accelerate skin sagging and deep wrinkles.

Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)

Molecules formed during glycation that accumulate in tissues over time, stimulate MMP production, and exacerbate age-related decline.

Carnosine

A molecule found in beef, pork, and poultry proven to help diminish the damaging effects of glycation in the body.

Toner

A water-based product applied after cleansing that further purifies, soothes, and smooths the skin while restoring its normal pH level.

Serum

A performance cosmetic product utilized in the 'Treat' step that contains a higher concentration of active ingredients than a moisturizer to target concerns like wrinkles and skin texture.

Humectants

Ingredients within moisturizing formulations that function by attracting moisture to the skin.

Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

A topical formulation designed to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB ultraviolet radiation, recommended for daily use and applied at least $15\text{ minutes}$ prior to sun exposure.

smoking causes an increase of what?

premature skin aging and wrinkles.

what is the term that refers to factors that are influenced by genetics and harmones?

Intrinsic aging

stress

can accelerate skin aging through increased cortisol levels, leading to inflammation and skin damage.

how does sleep affect the skins health?

is essential for skin repair and regeneration, and lack of it can contribute to premature aging and dull complexion.

how does climate affect skin health?

Climate can influence skin health by affecting moisture levels, temperature, and sun exposure, which can lead to dryness, irritation, or increased risk of sun damage.

how does your diet affect skin health?

Diet impacts skin health by providing essential nutrients that support hydration, repair, and elasticity. Poor dietary choices can lead to inflammation and exacerbate skin issues.

masks

are treatments that can hydrate, purify, and rejuvenate the skin, often containing various active ingredients to target specific skin concerns.

cleanse

is the process of removing dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin to prevent clogged pores and maintain a healthy complexion.

moisturize

is the act of applying products to the skin to enhance hydration and prevent moisture loss, improving overall skin texture and elasticity.