Clinical consequences of age-related skin barrier dysfunction. Part I. Structural, molecular and physiologic changes with cutaneous aging.

ABSTRACT

Aging is associated with significant changes to skin structure and function. As the United States population ages, dermatologists are increasingly presented with the clinical consequences of these changes. Understanding the biology of aging skin allows dermatologists to best guide patients towards proactive treatment of age-related skin disease. The first article of this 2-part continuing medical education series reviews the structural, molecular and functional changes associated with skin aging.