Why is anti-aging now becoming well-aging?
50 is the new WOW - this phrase is not only frequently picked up in magazines. It also seems to be firmly anchored in the minds of many women (and men) now, because attitudes towards aging have changed greatly in recent years. And for the better.
More and more people tend to both prevent and accept aging on their own terms. Accordingly, the negative term ANTI-aging is no longer appropriate.
"If you look at the science, anti-aging measures are intended to prevent or limit the process of aging. Healthy aging, what we now call Healthy-Aging or Well-Aging, is defined in comparison (according to WHO) as 'the process of developing and maintaining the functional abilities that enable well-being in old age.' In concrete terms, this means that Well-Aging does not aim to prevent aging, but rather to accompany the process of aging in such a way that the functions and quality of our organs are preserved for as long as possible," says Dr. Meike Streker.
So the beauty of the term is also its meaning. It is no longer about the AGAINST, but about doing something FOR yourself. In addition to skincare, nutrition, physical fitness, sleep and one's own self-confidence are also important here. But especially in relation to the skin, one keyword plays an important role: skin quality. Poor skin quality is noticeable, for example, through redness, dry patches or poorly hydrated skin areas.
Factors influencing the skin
There are many factors that influence the skin. Sun exposure, stress, nutrition, sleep and also environmental pollution influence the quality of the skin. Living alone in the city is more challenging for the skin than living in the countryside. The reason for this is air pollution. This is not only influenced by car fumes or industry, but also on a small scale, for example, at home when there is a fireplace in one's living room. But hormonal changes such as menopause in women also change the skin. It becomes drier and the general supply of nutrients to the skin deteriorates. If you know your skin's needs, you can work better for it, because it's about much more than just your own skincare type.
What does the skin need?
It is important to pay attention to what the skin needs at the moment - UV filters, antioxidants, barrier-stabilizing active ingredients as well as moisturizers and lipids are indispensable. In addition to skin needs, age also plays a role. "From the age of 20, UV protection, antioxidants and barrier stabilization make sense. From 30, AHAs are added, and from 40, cell regulators such as retinol and lipids," says the expert. In addition, she says, "One should care for the skin like the best piece of clothing one has, so that it can accompany us well for years." Basically, in terms of well aging: protect, balance, stabilize, maintain and renew. This is how we keep a good skin quality, a beautiful glow and therefore a healthy radiance.