How to Adapt Your Skincare Routine as You Get Older

If your name is Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry or Sandra Bullock, there is no need to read this post. We don't know whether it is genetics, fantastic skincare products, cutting-edge treatment, a skilled doctor or any combination of the above. What we do know is these ladies have mastered the whole aging-in-reverse thing. That said an overwhelming majority of us aren't the Hollywood elite. If we are blessed with good health, our skin will age. To avoid looking like a tattered leather handbag, we can take care of our skin (be it for vanity, health or self-care). What type of products do we need as we get older?

Sunscreen

One thing you can do to protect your skin is to apply sunscreen every day. It protects you against skin cancer and prevents the signs of aging.

Retinol

Science supports us on this. You need retinol is your skincare routine. Plenty of studies confirm the benefits of retinol. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles, repairs sun damage, improves skin texture, sustains collagen and reduces acne and acne-related scarring. Bear in mind, it takes some time for retinol to work and you will not see the results overnight. Research suggests it can take up to 12 weeks for retinol to perform its magic.

Chemical exfoliation

Along with our metabolism, our cell turnover slows down as we get older. Because of course, it does. Chemical exfoliation will accelerate the process. Pick an acid based on your skin type. Depending on the acid, it can boost collagen production, improve skin texture, control oiliness, maintain elasticity, unclog the pores, and hydrate the skin.

Antioxidants

Our skin is exposed to environmental stressors on the daily basis (like pollution, smoke, and sun). An antioxidant product is an essential step in a skincare routine regardless of our age. Antioxidants protect against free radical damage, oxidative stress, and photoprotect against sun damage.

Moisturise

As we get older our skin gets drier. Our moisture barrier protects our skin against the outside stressors. In turn, the acid mantle is the thin protective layer of Stratum Corneum. If these two get disrupted, it leads to transepidermal water loss. This not only leads to excessive dryness, it can also lead to infection and acne.

Take care of your moisture barrier. Find a gentle cleanser that will not strip the skin. Rule of the thumb is - if your skin feels tight and uncomfortable after you have cleansed your face, your cleanser is excessively harsh. Likewise, look for products that will soothe and replenish your moisture barrier. Ingredients to look for would include Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides, Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans, and prebiotics. Well-formulated facial oil can also help to replenish the skin.

How have you adapted your skincare routine? Are you happy with the results?