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Causes of Facial Aging

There are two different types of skin aging: internal and external. Internal or “intrinsic” aging is caused by the natural aging process. As we grow older, our collagen production slows and our skin begins to lose its elasticity. The genes we inherit often play a role in how quickly we are affected by intrinsic aging.

External or “extrinsic” aging is caused by environmental factors, the most common and harmful being exposure to ultraviolet rays. Without protection from the sun’s rays, even a few minutes of exposure every day over the years can cause noticeable changes to your skin, such as:

  • Freckles
  • Age spots
  • Facial spider veins
  • Rough and leathery skin
  • Fine lines and wrinkles that disappear when stretched
  • Loose skin
  • A blotchy complexion
  • Skin cancer

Aside from the sun, other external factors that can prematurely age your skin include smoking, repetitive facial expressions, gravity (which aids the formation of jowls and saggy eyelids) and sleeping positions (such as laying against a pillow night after night). Many patients seek out Virginia facial rejuvenation procedures can help reverse the signs of facial aging.

If you are interested in learning more about our Virginia facial rejuvenation treatments, please contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Desman at the Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery today to schedule your no-cost consultation.