Why does skin lose volume with age?

There are many signs of skin aging, the main ones being wrinkles, sagging and loss of volume. While we have shared the common causes of wrinkles and fine lines - thank you very much, Mr. Golden Sun - what causes our skin to sag and lose volume over time? Below you will learn about some of the main causes of volume loss with age and get some product recommendations to help make your skin look firmer and firmer!

What gives volume to the skin?

Young skin is characterized by a plump appearance - fat is evenly distributed over all areas of the face. This fullness and volume may be due to factors such as hydration (younger skin has naturally higher levels of hyaluronic acid) and collagen. However, over time, our skin can lose this volume, resulting in flattened cheeks, sagging, and drier, thinner skin. While internal aging is a factor, there are three other main culprits that can also lead to volume loss.

sun exposure

Not surprisingly, the first factor on this list is sun exposure. UV rays are known to damage the skin, causing everything from the first signs of premature skin aging - dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles - to sunburn and skin cancer. Another thing that UV rays do is break down collagen, which supports the skin and helps it look plump. What's more, harsh sun exposure can dry out the skin, and prolonged lack of moisture is another reason why skin can sag and become loose.

Fast weight loss

Another factor that can lead to loss of skin volume is extreme and rapid weight loss. Since the fat under our skin is what makes it look full and plump, when we lose fat too quickly – or lose too much – it can cause the skin to look like it is being pulled in and sagging.

Free Radicals

In addition to UV rays, another environmental factor that can cause volume loss is the breakdown of collagen by free radicals. When they separate—due to pollution or ultraviolet rays—oxygen free radicals try to latch on to a new partner. Their favorite partner? Collagen and elastin. Without protection, free radicals can destroy these essential fibers and skin can look lifeless and less plumped.

what can you do

If you're worried about losing volume, there are steps you can take in your skincare routine to help plump up your skin.

Apply SPF daily and reapply frequently

Since sun exposure is the main cause of skin aging, wearing sunscreen is key to preventing the visible side effects of UV radiation. Every day, no matter the weather, use a moisturizer with a broad spectrum SPF of 15 or higher. L'Oréal Paris Age Perfect Hydra-Nutrition, which not only protects the skin from UV rays, but also gives it an instant glow, we love it. Formulated with essential oils and broad spectrum SPF 30, this daily sun oil is ideal for mature, dry skin.

Get Hyaluronic Acid Formulas

The body's natural stores of hyaluronic acid are something we can thank for plump, youthful skin, but as we age, those stores begin to deplete. So it's great to try products that contain a moisturizer to compensate for moisture loss. Try L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius. There are three moisturizers in the new collection: one for oily skin, one for dry skin and one for very dry skin. All three products contain hyaluronic acid, which helps restore moisture to parched skin. Find out more about Hydra Genius here!

A layer of antioxidants under the sunscreen

To help protect your skin from free radicals that attach to and break down collagen, you need to layer your antioxidant serum under your SPF every day. Antioxidants offer free radicals an alternative pair to latch on to. We talk more about the importance of this skincare combination here.