Medicadermis | Skin Therapy The Hague

From Baywatch icon to a different beauty ideal

Pamela Anderson became known worldwide as an actress and glamour icon. That is precisely why it stood out when she appeared increasingly often without striking makeup at public events and in fashion images in 2023 and 2024. Among other things PEOPLE and Harper's Bazaar paid attention to her choice.

That choice doesn't have to mean that makeup is wrong. The interesting thing is that she shows that a face doesn't always need to be smoothed, corrected, or concealed to be beautiful. And that is a refreshing thought in a world where 'anti-aging' seems almost like an obligation.

The term life-ing sometimes pops up in conversations about this attitude to life. It is not a medical or scientifically defined term. Here I use it as a metaphor: not trying to turn back time, but letting life and your face move along.

Anti-aging or pro-aging: what does science say?

Skin aging is a biological process. Over the years, the organization of collagen fibers, the elasticity of the skin, and its repair capacity, among other things, change. In addition, the environment plays a role. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation, in particular, can accelerate visible skin aging, with pigment spots, wrinkles, and changes in skin structure as possible consequences.

Scientists therefore distinguish between intrinsic aging (including age and genetic predisposition) and extrinsic aging (such as sun exposure and smoking). You cannot stop the first, but you do have influence over some modifiable factors.

Want to know more about skin aging and treatment options? View the LIFT collection and the information page Treating skin aging in The Hague.

Self-acceptance and skin improvement are not mutually exclusive.

You don't have to want to get rid of your wrinkles. But you are also allowed to enjoy having a pigment spot treated, improving your skin condition, or using a good skincare routine. The most important question is not: How do I become young again? But: What do I want for my own skin?

For me, skin therapy begins with listening. Perhaps you primarily want less redness or a more even complexion. Maybe you don't mind fine lines at all, but want to protect your skin from further sun damage. And sometimes a gentle skincare routine is just enough.

What can skin therapy mean for aging?

At Medikadermis, I work with non-injectable skin-improving treatments. This is not about a new face, but about a suitable approach for the skin characteristics you wish to discuss.

IPL for sun damage, pigmentation, and visible blood vessels

For suitable indications, IPL can reduce certain pigment and vascular changes. This can make the skin appear more even, but IPL is not a solution for pronounced sagging or deep wrinkles.

ResurFX and microneedling for skin texture

Fractional non-ablative laser treatment and microneedling can stimulate controlled healing processes. Depending on the indication, they can contribute to improving skin texture and reducing some fine lines. Multiple treatments may be necessary; the effect and recovery time vary from person to person.

Peels and appropriate home care

A chemical peel can be chosen for specific texture or pigmentation problems. Retinoids and daily broad-spectrum sun protection also have a place in addressing certain signs of sun damage. What is suitable depends on the skin barrier, skin type, any contraindications, and your wishes.

My vision: skin doesn't have to look young to be well cared for.

I find it beautiful when someone feels comfortable in their own skin. With or without makeup. With or without a treatment. You don't have to deny your age to pay attention to skin health.

Perhaps that is the essence of the state pension: Authentic Aging. Don't fight against every little line, but consciously choose what you want to support. Sometimes that is treatment; sometimes it is deciding not to change anything at all.

Read more: which skin question do you recognize?

Conclusion: say YES to your state pension

Pamela Anderson's choice is not treatment advice, but it is a wonderful opportunity to look at aging differently. Healthy skin and an authentic appearance can go hand in hand. You don't have to stop time to take good care of yourself.

About the author

Charlotte de Deugd is a skin therapist and owner of Medicadermis in The Hague. She combines clinical assessment, appropriate skincare, and non-injectable skin-improving treatments, tailored to the individual skin and personal wishes.