Changes to the skin are one of the most apparent signs of aging. Over time, skin becomes thinner and loses its elasticity and youthful, smooth look. Skin not only appears older, it also tends to be more fragile, tears more easily, and is more likely to bruise.1,2

However, there are ways to protect thinning skin.

Getting under the skin

The skin is made up of three layers.3 The subcutaneous fat tissue is the deepest layer of your skin. It acts as insulation against temperature fluctuations, as energy storage, and provides structural support to other layers.

The dermis is the layer above the fat tissue. It contains a network of collagen, elastin, and complex carbohydrates called glycosaminoglycans. This network (called the extracellular matrix, or ECM) gives the skin resistance and elasticity. Also present are blood and lymphatic vessels, which supply the skin with oxygen and nutrients, among other functions. 

The epidermis is the outermost layer and is the barrier that protects the body from the environment. It contains immune cells called melanocytes, which produce ultraviolet (UV)-protecting melanin. 

What causes aging skin

As skin gets older, the three layers begin to thin. The subcutaneous fat pad deep in the skin decreases. The components of the ECM also decrease, making skin less elastic, more fragile, and more prone to wounds. Skin loses elastin and collagen fibers, which results in less support, the appearance of wrinkles, and other signs of aging. These changes decrease the skin's ability to transfer nutrients, leading to dry skin and problems such as delayed wound healing.3,4

How quickly the skin-aging process happens is determined by several factors, some that you can’t control, and some that you can.1,2,5-7

  • Genetics – This is a main factor for determining skin structure and texture. 
  • Menopause – Falling estrogen leads to thinning skin, easier bruising, and slower healing. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a woman’s skin loses about 30 percent of its collagen in the first five years of menopause. Loss of collagen and other skin components are linked to problems such as wound healing.  
  • Medications – Certain medications, such as long-term use of corticosteroids, can weaken the skin and blood vessels in the skin. 
  • Chronic sun exposure – UV radiation speeds the natural aging process and breaks down the skin's connective tissue. Without supportive connective tissue, the skin loses strength and flexibility.

Protecting fragile skin

To protect thinning skin and prevent tears and cuts:1,2, 6-8 

  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
  • If you must be outside in the sun, then use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours — or more often if you're swimming or sweating.
  • Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. The forearms are common areas for minor injury to the skin. If it’s not hot out, then consider wearing two layers to protect them when doing yardwork or gardening.
  • Take fewer baths or showers and use warm water and mild soap when you do bathe.
  • Keep skin well moisturized and protected by using a moisturizing cream. 
  • Eat a healthy diet. Some research links higher intakes of foods with antioxidants, such as vegetables and fruits, to fewer signs of skin aging.5,7 Increased protein might also help reduce skin fragility.8
  • Consult with a dermatologist about treatment options. Retinoids – vitamin A-based products that can improve skin tone – and laser treatment might be helpful.

Skin that becomes thin with aging is common and is not usually a cause for concern. However, if your skin tears often, then consider seeing a dermatologist.2,9

A word from Thorne

Nutritional supplements, such as Thorne’s Collagen Plus, can support healthy skin aging in several ways: (1) improving hydration, (2) supporting skin elasticity, (3) decreasing fine lines and wrinkles, (4) evening skin pigment, and (5) improving the integrity of the skin.*

References

  1. Skin care and aging. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/skin-care-and-aging. [Accessed April 14, 2023.]
  2. Thin skin? The added protection helps. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/expert-answers/thin-skin/faq-20057753. [Accessed April 14, 2023.]
  3. Eckhart L, Tschachler E, Gruber F. Autophagic control of skin aging. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019;30(7):143.
  4. Taffet GE. Normal aging. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. [Accessed April 14, 2023.]
  5. Wrinkles. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wrinkles/symptoms-causes/syc-20354927. [Accessed April 14, 2023.]
  6. Caring for your skin in menopause. American Academy of Dermatology.https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/skin-care-during-menopause. [Accessed April 14, 2023.]
  7. Wong QYA, Chew FT. Defining skin aging and its risk factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021;11(1):22075
  8. Dyer JM, Miller RA. Chronic skin fragility of aging: current concepts in the pathogenesis, recognition, and management of dermatoporosis. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol 2018 Jan;11(1):13-18.
  9. Retinoid or retinol? American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/retinoid-retinol. [Accessed April 25, 2023]