Every client who enters an aesthetics practice is concerned with their appearance and aging is a large component of their internal motivation. Aging is an inevitable part of life that everyone experiences, yet it often comes with negative connotations and societal pressures to appear perpetually youthful.

Luckily, aesthetics providers are highly equipped in warding off the signs of aging with a plethora of treatment options. Yet, it is vital to be aware of the role the media, brand advertising, and the rise of social media all play in shaping the general public’s perception of aging. In many cases, the key message communicated through these outlets is that visible aging is socially unacceptable. 

THE TWO FACES OF AGING

“Instagram face” is quickly becoming a standard for youthful beauty, making the antiaging industry continually thrive, but to truly address how practitioners can navigate and retain positive aging, one must first dive into the two types of aging: chronologic and biologic. Chronologic aging is nonwavering. Day after day and year after year, age is always growing. In this respect, age is truly just a number. Counter this with biologic aging, which is a much more fluid blend of unique characteristics that truly portray age from the inside out. Biologic aging is not the number of candles on the birthday cake; it is the culmination of ancestry, lifestyle, and health status. Biologic aging is largely impacted by environment and lifestyle choices and individuals hold the power in their hands to make positive life choices that impact overall biologic aging. 

Nancy Miller is the director of education and research for The Vitality Institute, makers of the VI Peel. She has served the aesthetic industry for 20 years as a provider, educator, lecturer, and content creator. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at University of Southern California, holds a Master of Business Administration in health care management, and has significant experience as director of operations at various dermatology practices and medical spas during her aesthetic career. Miller is recognized for providing impeccable aesthetic service, and is known for having a refined aesthetic eye, gentle touch, and calm demeanor.