Even if you don’t have it yet, you’ve probably seen it on others: crepey skin. This particular texture results from skin that has lost its elasticity, creating fine lines and wrinkles that resemble crepe paper. While it’s not something to celebrate, understanding the causes and how to prevent it can help you maintain youthful, healthy skin.
The Main Causes of Crepey Skin
While several factors contribute to crepey skin, the primary culprit is sun exposure. According to dermatologist Dr. Young McMahan, “We often think of sun damage as just causing the effects we see right away — sunburns and suntans, but the long-term and cumulative impact of sun exposure can be much more serious.” This includes accelerated aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, crepey skin, and more severe concerns like skin cancer.
Other causes include:
- Aging: As we age, collagen production slows, leading to thinner skin that can sag and wrinkle.
- Smoking: Smoking constricts blood flow to the skin, deprives it of oxygen and nutrients, and introduces harmful free radicals.
- Weight Loss: Significant weight loss can cause the skin to sag, creating a crepey appearance.
- Poor Diet: Diets low in essential nutrients can lead to less healthy, more aged-looking skin.
Prevention Tips to Maintain Youthful Skin
- Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Sun exposure breaks down the elastin in your skin, leading to crepiness. Dr. Divya Shokeen, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, emphasizes the importance of wearing sunblock daily, even on your hands. “Over time, aggressive or excessive exposure to the sun breaks down, elastic in your skin… leading to the appearance of lax or crepey skin,” she says. Always use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: According to a 2020 study published in Nutrients, diets rich in whole foods lead to healthier, younger-looking skin. Incorporate plenty of vitamins, antioxidants, and proteins into your meals and reduce processed foods to keep your skin vibrant and elastic.
- Stay Hydrated: It is crucial to drink at least eight glasses of water daily and use a daily moisturizer. “An intact skin barrier… maintains hydration and locks in moisture,” explains Dr. Jeremy Brauer. Look for moisturizers with alpha or beta hydroxy acids and hyaluronic acids, which help keep the skin plump and hydrated.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking deprives your skin of essential oxygen and nutrients and increases harmful free radicals. Dermatologist Dr. Michael Kassardjian explains that smoking activates the enzyme metalloproteinase (MMP-1), slowing collagen production. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your skin’s appearance and health.
Treatments for Crepey Skin
While prevention is key, several treatments can help minimize the appearance of crepey skin:
- Topical Retinoids: Promote collagen production and skin renewal.
- Laser Treatments: Stimulate collagen and elastin production.
- Chemical Peels: Remove the top layers of skin to reveal fresher, more elastic skin beneath.
- Microneedling: Promotes collagen production by creating tiny punctures in the skin.
Conclusion
Crepey skin is a common sign of aging, but with the right preventative measures, you can maintain a youthful appearance for longer. By protecting your skin from the sun, maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking, you can delay the onset of crepey skin. And if it does appear, effective treatments are available to help you regain smoother, firmer skin.
Remember, while crepey skin is entirely normal and nothing to be ashamed of, taking proactive steps to care for your skin can help you look and feel your best.
Visit Pur MedSpa for personalized skincare advice and treatment options. Our team of experts, including Dr. Ric S Kolluri (Hon.), CEO of Pur MedSpa, and Licensed Esthetician Kasha G., are here to help you achieve your skincare goals.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our website at Pur MedSpa or call us at 469-750-2273. Your journey to healthier, more youthful skin starts here!