Photoageing
Pronunciation: FOH-toh-ay-jing
Premature skin aging caused by chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation, resulting in wrinkles, pigmentation changes, and loss of elasticity.
Full Definition
Photoageing (also spelled 'photoaging' in American English) refers to the cumulative damage to the skin's structural proteins—primarily collagen and elastin—caused by repeated ultraviolet (UV) and visible light exposure over time. It is distinguished from intrinsic (chronological) aging in that it is externally caused and largely preventable. Clinical manifestations include solar lentigines, telangiectasias, rhytides, sallowness, and roughened texture. The Glogau Classification system is commonly used to grade photoageing severity. Editors should note the spelling difference: 'photoageing' (British English) vs. 'photoaging' (American English); house style should be applied consistently throughout a document.
Usage
Usage note: Apply house style consistently: 'photoageing' (British/international) or 'photoaging' (American). Do not mix spellings within a single document.
In Context
- "The patient presented with grade III photoageing characterised by extensive solar lentigines and prominent nasolabial folds." — Clinical assessment report
- "The manuscript alternated between 'photoaging' and 'photoageing'; the copy-editor standardized to the British spelling per journal house style." — Journal manuscript editing