What's the Difference?
Your face says more than a thousand words.
Real Age: Your Chronological Age
Chronological age, also known as real age, refers to the number of years a person has lived since birth. It is measured in years and indicates the actual time that has passed. Chronological age is an objective, unchanging value that progresses independently of external influences.
Skin Age: Your Biological Age
Your biological age is a measure of the physiological state and functional capacity of the body, based on biological and physiological indicators. It reflects how well or poorly your body is functioning compared to a typical aging process, regardless of the number of years you lived. This biological age can be influenced by various factors including genetics, lifestyle, diet, physical activity, stress, and environmental factors. Unlike your chronological age, which is simply the number of years since your birth, your biological age provides an indication of how "old" your body is on a cellular and systemic level.
As we age, cells in the body undergo several changes that influence our biological age. The cells ability to replicate and repair is significantly reduced. DNA damage can accumulate over time due to environmental exposures and normal cellular processes. The regenerative capacity of your cells diminishes, slowing tissue and organ renewal and oxidative stress increases, causing free radical accumulation that can damage cell membranes, proteins, and even the DNA.
Changes in your body's cell communication pathways can disrupt efficient cellular functions and coordination. The mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of your cells, become less efficient, which results in decreased cellular energy and overall cell function.
A lower biological age compared to the chronological age often indicates better overall health and a longer life expectancy, as these cellular changes are mitigated by a healthy lifestyle and effective cellular maintenance of your body.
Factors
Your biological age can be influenced by various factors.
What your Lifestyle says about you
Your lifestyle plays a big part in how your skin ages, especially when it comes to sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. Getting a good night's sleep, around 7-8 hours, helps your skin cells regenerate. Eating a healthy, balanced diet full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is great for your overall health and can help slow down the signs of aging. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water every day keeps your skin moist and elastic. Regular physical activity improves blood circulation and oxygen supply to the skin, which contributes to a healthy, glowing complexion.
NUTRITION
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
SLEEP
Balanced, nutrient-rich diet promotes cell health. Antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals contribute to cell health.
Restorative sleep supports cell repair.
Chronic Deseases
: Conditions like diabetes and heart disease promote faster aging.
Telomeres
: Longer telomeres protect against faster aging.
Genetics
DNA Methylation
: This process can regulate gene expression by silencing or activating genes.
Health
Immune System
: A strong immune system helps fight infections and delays aging.
Mental Health
: Depression and anxiety can negatively affect quality of life and life expectancy.
What else can affect your skin's age?