Julie Groves Board Member | Official Website
Julie Groves Board Member | Official Website
As people age, their skin undergoes natural changes, resulting in a thinner, less elastic appearance, and it becomes more prone to wrinkles and discoloration. Many visible signs of skin aging are not just due to time, but are influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors.
Nikole Larkin, a Nurse Practitioner at Aspirus Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, helps patients understand the skin aging process and offers guidance on skin protection and improvement. "Skin becomes more fragile as we get older," Larkin stated. "But there are several things people can do to keep it healthy and reduce the appearance of aging." While genetics do play a role in skin aging, factors such as sun exposure, smoking, diet, and skincare routines significantly affect skin health.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that up to 90 percent of the skin changes associated with aging are caused by sun exposure. Most premature skin aging can be avoided through proper ultraviolet radiation protection. Larkin suggests daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, regardless of the weather, and recommends protective clothing to minimize long-term damage from UV rays.
Aspirus offers various options to address aging signs and improve skin health, including medical-grade skincare products, microneedling, and laser treatments, all aimed at enhancing the skin’s regenerative processes. Larkin collaborates with patients to develop personalized plans that reflect their goals, lifestyle, and skin condition.
"It is never too early or too late to start taking care of your skin," Larkin advised. "A few consistent habits and the right guidance can make a big difference."
Further details or consultation scheduling can be found by visiting aspirus.org or contacting Aspirus Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics.
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