It's never too early to start looking after your skin.
Published: Thu 18 Feb 2016, 11:00 PM
Last updated: Fri 26 Feb 2016, 8:15 AM
When you're constantly bombarded with news about the latest anti-ageing treatments and methods, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. How can you maintain a skin care routine when the rules seem to be ever-changing? But the truth is, it might be simpler than you think. By separating the hype from reality, you can come up with a core skin care routine to perfectly suit your skin. "As you age, your skin changes," says Dr Jeanine Downie, board-certified dermatologist from Image Dermatology P.C.
"When it comes to supporting skin and its care, women (and men) need to understand that ageing is complex, and it varies greatly by individual. Genetics, tanning and smoking also influence the health of your skin." She also noted that with skincare, there are a range of choices to consider, such as cosmetic treatments and even oral anti-ageing skin care supplements. Additionally, Dr Downie says it's important to adjust your skin care routine throughout the years, what worked in your and twenties may not have your skin glowing into your thirties and beyond. Here are some tips to follow from your 20s to your 50s.
20s: Preserve and protect. It's never too early to start ageing prevention. Hectic schedules, late nights out and days spent on the beach can wreak havoc on your skin. This stress shows up in the form of dark circles, under-eye bags, and dull or puffy skin. Fine lines begin to creep up as early as your late 20s, so a quality skin care routine is key. Start with a glycolic acid based cleanser and an oil-free moisturiser. Dr Downie recommends a separate sunscreen with an SPF 30 or above, rain or shine, regardless of your ethnicity. The sun's rays make our skin age more quickly - so regular use of daily sun protection is essential at all ages.
30s: Exfoliate. Once you hit your 30s, your skin's natural exfoliation process begins to slow down. The growth factor in your skin also decreases. This means that you start to lose a teaspoon of collagen from your face every year by the time you are 30. Continue with your glycolic acid base cleanser. You also need an oil-free makeup remover. Using an eye cream both day and night might help to increase moisture and suppleness around the eye area.
40s: Strengthen. As you enter your 40s, your estrogen levels begin to change, resulting in dryer and thinner skin. Anti-ageing products and creams with ingredients like retinoids and peptides are must-haves and always make sure to apply sunblock. Moisturise with serums containing growth factors and hyaluronic acid. Exfoliate - use a gentle face cleansing brush to help get rid of dead skin cells. Be sure to extend your skin care down to your neck and upper chest area. There are specifically formulated products to soothe and ease discolouration in these areas.
50s: Beyond Hydration and Prevention. You should already be on a steady anti-ageing regimen. As soon as you count 50 candles on your birthday cake, moisturising should be your top skin care priority. Look for products with retinoids, peptides, alpha hydroxy and amino acids. You should be keeping vigilant with your sunscreen and moisturisers. True beauty comes from within, so embrace your age throughout your life. Try to avoid excessive sun exposure (and indoor tanning as these rays may accelerate skin ageing), moisturise daily and consider an anti-ageing oral supplement.
Exercise, eat healthy foods, don't forget to get enough sleep (it's called beauty rest for a reason) and if you smoke, stop. Follow this guide and take steps to shift your skincare routine through the decades of your life to feel as beautiful as you look - both inside and out.
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