The correlation between cold and premature skin ageing
Photoageing of the skin, which manifests itself in the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots and other signs of premature ageing, is a complex process that can be influenced by many environmental factors. Winter cold is one of these factors, as it can exacerbate the damaging effects of UV rays on the skin and accelerate the skin's ageing process.
Shall we explain?
UNBALANCED SKIN BARRIER
When the temperature drops, the humidity in the air decreases, leading to significant water loss from the skin and a feeling of tightness.
Cold and wind can dry out the skin , making it look dull and tired.
What's more, the cold can damage the skin barrier, which is the skin's first line of defense against environmental aggression.
When the skin barrier is compromised, the skin is more vulnerable to damage from UV rays.
At this point, UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin and damage collagen and elastin fibers, resulting in a loss of skin firmness and elasticity.
When the skin barrier is weakened, the skin becomes more vulnerable to the damaging effects of UV rays and can suffer irreversible damage, such as wrinkles, dark spots and a rough texture.
It is therefore essential to take care of the skin barrier by using moisturizing products and protecting the skin from environmental aggressors.
By protecting the cutaneous barrier, we preserve the skin's health and limit the effects of premature ageing.
ALTERED CELLULAR METABOLISM
When skin is exposed to cold, blood vessels constrict, reducing the supply of blood and oxygen to skin cells.
This can lead to an alteration in the metabolism of skin cells, which can become more sensitive to the effects of UV rays.
What's more, skin exposed to cold and UV rays can suffer damage, which can alter skin cells and lead to premature ageing.
UVA EVEN IN WINTER
It's important to remember that UVA rays are present all year round, even when the temperature is low and the sky is overcast. Unlike UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn and are strongest during the summer months, UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin all year round.
In short, cold weather can worsen the harmful effects of UV rays on the skin, accelerating the skin's ageing process. So it's essential to take care of your skin in all seasons, and to protect it from UV rays by using high-quality sunscreens.