As people age, their skin undergoes several changes, mostly negative ones. As early as their mid-thirties, most people start observing subtle signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

However, it would surprise you to know that turning 40 marks a significant time in one’s aging process. In just four years, most people will have acquired wrinkles, grays, and other aging signs, marking the beginning of their years as seniors.

The Aging Process: Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the four-year sprint to wrinkles and gray, let’s first understand how the aging process works.

One of the aging processes that visibly affect our skin is the gradual loss of collagen. Collagen is a protein that makes up our skin.

As we age, our body produces less of it, and the already existing collagen in our skin becomes weaker and less efficient. Consequently, the skin wrinkles and droops.

The other aging process that many people have heard of is the reduction in the production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for our hair and skin color. As we age, our hair turns gray, and our skin becomes paler and less pigmented.

The Four-Year Sprint

As earlier mentioned, most people start noticing subtle aging symptoms in their mid-thirties. However, when they turn 40, things change at an alarming rate.

It’s in this four-year period that people experience a considerable decline in their appearance. Here are some typical changes that occur:.

1. Wrinkles

Wrinkles can be caused by sun exposure, lifestyle habits, and genetics. However, regardless of the causes, several groups of wrinkles occur during this period. These include:.

2. Fine lines

Fine lines appear gradually and mostly occur around the eyes and mouth. However, some people may also develop fine lines of their forehead.

3. Crow’s feet

Crow’s feet is a term used to describe wrinkles that develop around the corners of the eyes and resemble a crow’s footmarks. These wrinkles are caused by sun exposure and constant squinting.

4. Sagging skin

Sagging skin occurs because of the loss of elastin, which is responsible for keeping the skin firm and elastic. On the other hand, collagen is responsible for keeping the skin supple and looking young.

5. Age spots

Age spots are flat brownish spots that develop on the skin. They are usually caused by sun damage, which can trigger the production of excess melanin.

6. Graying hair

Hair starts turning gray because of the reduction in melanin. Although graying hair can occur at any age, it is prevalent during this four-year period.

7. Thinning hair

The reduction of collagen not only affects the skin but also the hair. Hair becomes thinner, and the follicles move closer to the scalp, making hair more prone to breakage.

Lifestyle Changes to Slow Down the Aging Process

Although aging is inevitable, several steps can be taken to slow it down. Most of these are lifestyle changes that affect how we live, what we eat, and how active we are. Here are some ways to slow down the aging process:.

1. Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet will nourish your body and help it produce enough collagen and prevent sun damage. Foods high in vitamin C and antioxidants, such as berries, citrus fruits, and green leafy vegetables, will also help keep your skin looking young.

2. Exercise

Exercise is an excellent way to keep our bodies healthy. Regular exercise promotes the production of collagen, which helps keep the skin firm and supple. Exercise also helps combat stress, which can result in premature aging.

3. Limit Sun exposure

Exposure to the sun is the number one cause of skin aging. In addition, sunburns can lead to skin cancer. Limit sun exposure by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

4. Get enough sleep

Sleep is an essential aspect of our overall health. Regular, adequate sleep can reduce stress and promote the production of collagen. It also ensures that the body repairs itself overnight.

Conclusion

The four-year sprint to wrinkles and gray is a critical period in our aging process. Although aging is inevitable, we can take measures to slow it down.

Eating a healthy diet, exercising, limiting sun exposure, and getting enough sleep are some lifestyle changes that we can adopt.