Have you ever wondered why our hands seem to age faster than other parts of our body? Several factors contribute to the visible signs of aging on our hands. Let's delve into the science and ways to treat/prevent hand aging:
Why do our Hands Age?
1. Different Skin Structure
· Thinness: The skin on the back of our hands is naturally thinner compared to other parts of the body, including the face. Thinner skin means there is less underlying support from collagen and elastin fibers, making it more prone to developing wrinkles and fine lines.
· Sebaceous Glands: Our hands have fewer sebaceous (oil) glands compared to the face. These glands produce natural oils that help keep the skin moisturized and supple. With fewer oil glands, the skin on the hands is more prone to dryness, which can exacerbate the appearance of wrinkles.
· Fat & Volume: As we age, the fat pads underneath the skin on our hands diminish, resulting in a loss of volume and firmness. This loss of fat and volume contributes to the sagging and wrinkling of the skin on the hands, making them appear older
2. The Culprits
· Environmental Stressors: Our hands are constantly exposed to environmental factors such as sunlight, harsh weather conditions, and pollutants. Chronic exposure to UV radiation from the sun damages collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, repeated exposure to water, chemicals, and detergents can further weaken the skin's barrier function, making it more susceptible to wrinkles.
· Wear and Tear: Daily activities that involve repetitive movements, such as typing, writing, or gripping objects, can contribute to the development of wrinkles on the hands. These repetitive motions cause the skin to fold and crease over time, leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, especially in areas where the skin is thinner.
· Lack of TLC:. We often don't pay attention to our hands the way we do to our face, neck and décolleté. A skincare routine for your hands should include the same elements as the one for your face: using gentle cleansers, protecting skin with regular sunscreen applications, moisturizing and hydrating several times a day and a weekly hand mask to restore and revive the skin.
How to Repair Aging Damage
Age spots: Also known as hyperpigmentation, are one of the most common signs of hand aging. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation stimulates the production of melanin, leading to the development of dark spots on the hands. Additionally, as we age, our skin becomes thinner and less able to regenerate, further exacerbating the appearance of age spots.
Topical bleaching agents containing ingredients like hexylresorcinol, tranexamic acid and niacinamide can help lighten dark spots. Please note hydroquinone, which was commonly used for skin lightening, is now banned in the US by the FDA. Broad-spectrum (both UVB and UVA) sunscreen should be applied daily to prevent further darkening of the spots.
Wrinkles: Skin creams that promote collagen and elastin production can build a denser dermis to support the skin, reducing wrinkle depth and appearance. Look for ingredients like advanced peptides and anti-oxidants. Photo-aging reducing ingredients like safflower oil and Methylene Blue will reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals before they can damage skin cells. Hydrating the skin with humectants like hyaluronic acid and moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, will plump the skin and create a smooth texture
In conclusion, understanding the factors that contribute to hand aging is essential for implementing preventive measures. By protecting our hands from sun damage, environmental pollutants, repeated movements, harsh chemicals, and maintaining good skincare habits, we can slow down the aging process and keep our hands looking youthful and vibrant for years to come.
At Mblue Labs, we recently developed the advanced age repair cream HandPlus+. This innovative product boosts collagen, fades dark spots and hydrates the skin. Leveraging Methylene Blue, Peptides and advanced Pigmentation Correctors.
