What does it mean to have a VE(.) skin type?

The letter "V" signifies that the signs of ageing have become visible and are occurring more frequently. Indeed, the fine lines at the corners of the mouth and at the corners of the eyes deepen with age, becoming more and more pronounced, meaning they are now visible both in motion and at rest. Additionally, new folds appear on new areas of the face such as the wrinkles between the eyebrows (frown lines) or the horizontal forehead wrinkles, depending on individual expressions. Aside from wrinkles, the complexion is uneven with pigmentation flaws. These various marks that appear on the surface are the result of different changes occurring within all layers of the skin over the years.

A slowdown in the rate of keratinocyte renewal and a decrease in the adhesion of corneocytes are observed from the age of thirty, which impairs the skin's barrier function, making the epidermis more vulnerable to external aggressions, particularly UV rays. Ageing is also marked by a decrease of 8 to 10% every 10 years in the cells that produce melanin, a pigment that protects against UV radiation, along with a change in their morphology and distribution, which causes irregular pigmentation on the skin's surface and the appearance of age spots. At the dermis level, the fibroblasts that synthesise collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin see their morphology and activity altered, leading to a decrease in the production of essential proteins for skin firmness and elasticity. These phenomena result in the formation of wrinkles.

The "E" indicates that the skin is highly exposed to external aggressions (solar radiation, air pollution, tobacco, stress, alcohol...), as well as insufficient sun protection habits relative to the phototype and exposure rhythm. These factors promote the production of free radicals, highly unstable and reactive molecules that can have a lasting impact on the skin. However, this action is normal in all living organisms that consume oxygen.

However, in the event of an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's natural ability to neutralise them, oxidative stress sets in and skin damage occurs. Indeed, these reactive oxygen species contribute to the degeneration of skin cells, both at the level of the epidermis and the dermis. All vital components of the skin such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, elastin, lipids and DNA find themselves under attack, thereby causing damage and malfunctions.

This oxidation process can thus affect the structure of the skin, leading to premature skin ageing or even cancer. Initially superficial wrinkles that gradually deepen, less toned skin and a duller complexion can start to appear, even before old age. To slow down their action and thus prevent premature skin ageing, the daily application of antioxidant-based treatments, in addition to an appropriate sun protection , is recommended.