ADULT DERMATOLOGY
Ageing Skin
Specialist care at Ready Dermatology, North Shore Health Hub, St Leonards
Introduction
Skin ageing is a natural and expected process. While it cannot be stopped entirely, many of the visible and functional changes associated with ageing can be slowed or supported with appropriate care and evidence-based dermatological input. Review focuses on understanding individual risk factors, maintaining skin health, and providing reassurance where changes are benign.
When to see a dermatologist
Concerns about accelerated or premature skin ageing
A history of significant cumulative sun exposure
Increasing dryness, fragility, itch, or skin sensitivity
Uncertainty about whether changes reflect normal ageing or sun-related skin change
Seeking advice on skin protection, maintenance, and long-term skin health
Why specialist assessment matters
Age-related skin changes are common and often benign, but they vary between individuals. Dermatological assessment helps place skin changes in the context of age, skin type, sun exposure, medical history, and medications.
This allows reassurance when findings are consistent with normal ageing, and guidance on evidence-based strategies to support skin health and function over time.
Frequently asked questions
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Ageing skin refers to the gradual structural and functional changes that occur in the skin over time. These changes may affect texture, elasticity, pigmentation, barrier function, and the skin’s ability to repair itself.
Skin ageing is influenced by intrinsic factors, such as genetics and time, as well as extrinsic factors, particularly cumulative sun exposure.
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Common changes seen in ageing skin may include:
Uneven pigmentation and sun-related spots
Changes in skin texture and increased fragility
Fine lines and reduced elasticity
Dryness, itch, or increased sensitivity
Easy bruising, particularly on sun-exposed areas
Benign growths such as seborrhoeic keratoses (sometimes referred to as “wisdom spots”), skin tags, or cherry angiomas
Not all changes occur in every individual.
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Cumulative sun exposure is a major contributor to premature skin ageing. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation accelerates pigmentary change, collagen breakdown, thinning of the skin, and the development of sun-related skin changes.
Consistent sun protection remains one of the most effective ways to preserve skin health over time.
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Assessment involves a thorough skin examination and consideration of factors such as:
Age and skin type
Sun exposure history
Medical history and current medications
Symptoms such as dryness, itch, or skin fragility
Distribution and evolution of skin changes
This allows tailored advice, reassurance, and monitoring where appropriate.
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Skincare is a key component of supporting ageing skin and includes guidance on:
Gentle cleansing routines
Regular use of moisturisers to support the skin barrier
Sun protection strategies
Avoidance of products that may irritate fragile or sensitive skin
Recommendations are individualised and focused on maintaining comfort and skin integrity.
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Dermatologists are medical specialists trained in the assessment of skin changes across all ages. Specialist review helps place ageing-related skin changes in context, supports early identification of sun-related change, and provides evidence-based guidance on maintaining skin health over time.
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At Ready Dermatology, North Shore Health Hub, St Leonards, our dermatologist supports patients in understanding age-related skin changes, distinguishing normal ageing from sun-related change, and maintaining skin health over time.
The information provided is general in nature and does not replace personalised medical advice. Assessment and treatment are individualised.
READY TO GET STARTED
Book a consultation at Ready Dermatology
Now accepting new patients at North Shore Health Hub, St Leonards.
GP referral required for Medicare rebates.