18 Oct Debunking the Myths of Aging
Everyone ages. There is no possible scientific way around it. Aging happens to everyone, yet it is still very misunderstood. This is why there are so many different misconceptions that have developed about aging over the years—many of which have come from individuals who haven’t really experienced aging, to begin with.
We have all heard those common aging myths about how our hair, skin, and appearance will change as we age and why they change, and for the most part, they are just that—myths. While our appearance will grow and change as we do, there are many misconceptions about aging out there that have many people worried.
Here at Heritage Family Medicine and Aesthetics, we have heard all of these myths from concerned patients and are always happy to help our patients understand the science behind how aging really works. This is why we believe it is finally time to debunk these misconceptions and learn the truth behind aging beautifully.
1. Myth: Facial Exercises Can Fix Wrinkles
There are so many people that swear by new “facial exercises” that supposedly fix wrinkles. These exercises promise to fix everything from sagging jowls to crow’s feet. However, there is no proven science behind these exercises and sometimes they actually make wrinkles appear worse.
Wrinkles happen, and the only real way to fix them is through treatments such as BOTOX® or fillers that are designed to fill, plump or tighten the areas where the wrinkles have formed, or to have facial resurfacing treatments that will boost collagen production to promote healing and restoration of skin’s tone and texture.
2. Myth: Makeup With SPF is the Same as Sunscreen
Just because you are wearing a makeup with SPF in it, it doesn’t mean you are getting the same level of protection as a real sunscreen. Most people know that excessive sun exposure is very bad for the skin, especially aging skin and it can actually make the skin age faster. Sunscreen is essential for keeping the sun’s harmful rays at bay. However, more often than not by the time sun damage shows up, it can be challenging to heal the damage the sun has had on the skin.
The good news is that we can treat hyperpigmentation (sun damage, age spots, freckles, melisma) with intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. This therapy uses directed infrared light to gently reduce pigmentation without harming the surrounding healthy skin cells.
3. Myth: By Age 50, 50% of the Population will Lose 50% of Their Hair Color
This isn’t just a tongue twister, it is a very common myth about aging. The “50/50/50 rule” is not true. Greying hair has a lot to do with genetics, and everyone is different. There is also a myth that stress will cause the hair to grey—which is false as well. Lucky for us all today, there is the wonder of hair color which you can use to help cover up the signs of aging hair.
4. Myth: Wrinkles and Aging Skin Come From Being Unhealthy
There is a myth out there that only adults who live unhealthy lifestyles develop wrinkles. While those who are unhealthy may have unhealthy looking skin, there is more to it than that. As we age, our bodies naturally start producing less and less collagen and may struggle with keeping hormonal balance, which is what helps keep our skin looking young, plump, youthful and glowing.
This happens to everyone. Aging skin does not necessarily mean there is something “unhealthy” about you or your skin. However, it may mean that your body needs some extra care and attention. Our providers can offer a combination of state-of-the-art skin care treatments for optimal skin rejuvenation and can test for hormonal imbalance.
5. Myth: Hormonal Imbalances Are Just a Part of Aging
Most people accept the fact that when they age, they are going to have to deal with the side effects of hormonal imbalances. While these imbalances do happen, you don’t have to accept them as a part of the aging process. Hormone replacement therapy can effectively control the symptoms of aging and help increase energy levels and improve sex drive.
Millions of people have already turned bio-identical hormone therapy as a solution for their hormonal imbalance, and the experts here at Heritage can help you see first-hand what a difference they can make on your body as you age.
Call our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our anti-aging specialists and work together with us as we continue to debunk the myths of aging.