Understanding Skin Ageing: What Causes It and How You Can Slow It Down

Discover the Main Factors Behind Premature Ageing—and What You Can Do to Keep Your Skin Looking Fresh for Longer

We all age—it’s a natural part of life. But how your skin ages, and how quickly, is influenced by more than just time. At Refreshd Aesthetics, we believe that ageing well isn’t about chasing youth—it’s about maintaining healthy, radiant skin that reflects how you feel inside.

Let’s explore the most common causes of skin ageing and what you can do to prevent and minimise their effects.

The Top Causes of Skin Ageing

1. Sun Exposure (UV Damage)

The biggest contributor to premature skin ageing is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV light breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to fine lines, sagging, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone—a process known as photoageing.

Even on cloudy days, UV rays penetrate the skin, which is why daily SPF protection is non-negotiable.

2. Natural Collagen Loss

From your mid-20s, your body produces less collagen each year. Collagen is essential for skin firmness and elasticity. As it declines, the skin becomes thinner, drier, and more prone to wrinkles.

Without intervention, this loss accelerates over time, especially in women post-menopause.

3. Lifestyle Factors

Smoking, alcohol, poor diet, stress, and lack of sleep all speed up the ageing process. These factors reduce your skin’s ability to repair and regenerate, leading to dullness, inflammation, and increased sensitivity.

4. Environmental Pollution

Pollutants and toxins in the air trigger oxidative stress, which damages skin cells and depletes antioxidants. This leads to inflammation, pigmentation, and a breakdown of the skin barrier.

5. Repetitive Facial Movements

Over time, repeated expressions (like frowning, smiling, or squinting) can etch lines into the skin. These “dynamic wrinkles” become permanent as the skin loses elasticity.

How to Slow Skin Ageing Naturally

At Refreshd Aesthetics, we take a proactive and regenerative approach to ageing. Here’s how you can protect your skin and slow visible ageing:

1. Daily Sun Protection

Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day, even in Scotland’s cloudier months. UV protection is your best anti-ageing defence.

2. Stimulate Collagen Production

Treatments like polynucleotides, skin boosters, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) encourage your skin to regenerate from within—rebuilding strength, hydration, and elasticity.

3. Hydrate and Nourish

Aesthetic treatments that focus on deep hydration and skin nutrition can drastically improve tone and texture. Combine this with a skincare routine rich in antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and retinol.

4. Consider Preventative Injectables

Subtle, expertly-placed anti-wrinkle injections can relax overactive muscles, preventing deeper expression lines from forming without freezing your face.

5. Live Well, Glow Naturally

Healthy skin starts from within. Prioritise sleep, hydration, balanced nutrition, and stress reduction.

Let’s Create a Skin Strategy That Ages Beautifully

At Refreshd Aesthetics, we’re here to guide you through every stage of your skin journey. Whether you want to prevent the first signs of ageing or restore youthful vitality, our bio-regenerative treatments are designed with your long-term skin health in mind.

Book a Skin Consultation Today

Ready to refresh your skin and future-proof your glow? Book a consultation with us today and start your journey to naturally radiant, healthy skin—whatever your age.