1. Uneven skin tone
Hyperpigmentation is a common cause of uneven skin tone and texture and can be caused by excess melanin production in the skin triggered by sun exposure.
Spending too much time in the sun without adequate sun protection can increase the risk of sun damage resulting in age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Other causes of dark spots and discolorations include hormonal changes (melasma), acne and scarring, ageing, air pollution, smoking, illness, or injury to the skin1.
2. Rough & dull skin
Dry skin can cause skin to have a rough texture because it doesn't have enough moisture2. As we age, the skins natural exfoliation process slows down, which can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells- this can cause the skin to appear dull rough or scaly.
3. Dry skin
When skin loses water too quickly, it becomes dry. This can happen for any number of reasons including using products that can strip the skin of vital lipids, taking long hot showers, and living in a cold, dry place.
With age, our skin produces less sebum, an oil that helps moisturise and protect the skin. After age 40, the amount of sebum your body makes drops3.
4. Bumpy skin & keratosis pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a very common and harmless skin condition that presents as dry, rough, and bumpy skin and may be itchy. Keratosis pilaris happens when your hair follicles become blocked with a build-up of keratin, a substance found in skin, hair and nails. Nobody knows exactly why keratin builds up, but the condition is thought to run in families.4 These rough-feeling bumps are plugs of dead skin cells and are commonly found on the arms and legs.
Keratosis pilaris becomes more noticeable in winter or a dry climate. It cannot be cured or prevented, but topical creams, lotions, and cleansers could help enhance the skin’s appearance5.
References
- https://www.aocd.org/page/Hyperpigmentation
- Dry Skin (Xeroderma): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention (clevelandclinic.org)
- https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/dry-skin-causes
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/keratosis-pilaris/