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In addition to the types of aging described above, there are
over three hundred theories on the causes of aging. At least a
dozen explain why cells decline. No matter what the cause, from
free radical damage to inflammation, the net effect of all of them
is water loss. – Water is lost from within the cells. Water is lost
from the material that keeps the collagen and elastin factory
going. Water is lost from every layer of the skin. |
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Although there are no established rules for managing hormonally
aging skin, proper topical care and long-term preventive techniques
can help lessen its visible influence. Without treatment, skin
after menopause will continue to degenerate. Estimates have
indicated that skin loses up to 30% of its collagen in the first five
years after menopause. Moreover, as skin thins by approximately a
percentage point a year, the decelerated cell renewal rate leaves
increasing numbers of dead skin cells on the surface. 2 |
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I believe that the answer to caring for hormonally aging skin lies in
the use of the anti-aging ingredient of the 21st century — WATER.
A program for menopausal skin that helps preserve water in the
body should consist of a topical, internal and emotional care
approach. First, let’s look at what to use topically and internally: |
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Antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Pomegranate Extract
and Green Tea Extract disarm free radicals that
damage the cell membrane and cause it to lose water.
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Anti-inflammatory agents, which release free radicals
that damage cellular structures and cause water loss.
Chamomile Extract, Licorice Extract and Aloe Vera Extract
are examples of anti-inflammatories that can be used
topically and internally.
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Hydrators, such as Sodium PCA absorb water from the
environment and act as a reservoir for water in the skin.
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Phytoestrogens are plant extracts that provide
estrogen-like benefits. Topically, these include Clover
Flower, Soy, Wild Yam and Iris Extract. Internally Tofu,
Soybeans, Wild Yam and Black Cohosh provide benefits.
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Essential Fatty Acids such as olive oil, evening primrose oil
and avocado oil help to protect the skin’s barrier function
from a topical level. Internally, it is important to eat foods
rich in EFA’s for internal cellular hydration.
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Amino Acids and Glucosamine both topically applied and taken
internally in foods and in supplement form encourage the
body to make its full component of collagen and elastin
tissue for a healthy, strong dermis.
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Lecithin and its building blocks, Phosphatidylcholine and
Choline, help to maintain cell walls when applied topically
and taken internally.
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Having these as part of an internal and external skin care
program will help maintain the water balance in your entire body;
I call it The Cellular Water Principle®. |
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