Anyone who has lived more than 50 years may have noticed a change in society; you now see more old people. And not just old people, but vigorous old people. People in modern society both desire and expect to be able to remain both youthful in appearance and healthy. In fact, prime physical condition lasts about ten good years, usually from 17 until 27; by age 30, people begin to notice disturbing changes.
Aging as a subject for the esthetician deserves a chapter all its own because the topic is both vast and complex. You need to start with a working definition of aging, then learn about the theories of aging and the physiology of aging. After you understand this, you will be ready to explore the treatments now available for the signs of aging.
The principal theories of aging can be classified in three major categories: the Molecular and Genetic Group, the Cellular Group and the Systemic Group. (See MAJOR THEORIES OF AGING.) Some of the subgroups within these general categories are worth discussion in more detail; the less important theories will get only passing mention.
Molecular and genetic theories
Genetic control theory
Also known as the "planned-obsolescence theory," this theory focuses on the genetic programming encoded within DNA. It states that humans are born with a genetic code predetermining certain types of physical and mental functioning. Essentially, genes also determine rate of aging and length of life. This has led to the well-known clock analogy, which asserts that a persons "biological clock" is set to go off at specific times, signaling the body to start aging and then die. |
