Bedtime, gin consumption, mattress preferences – things change as we get older. The same goes for our skin. According to leading dermatologists, your skin can start to decrease in collagen production from as young as 25, so it’s never too early to invest time (and sometimes dollar) in a good skincare regime. Of course, finding out which routine works for you can vary, based on your age and your skin type. Good news, we’ve got you covered – this is a handy guide on what to introduce to your regime throughout the years.
By Danielle Petch
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1 In your 20s
First things first, SPF should be a daily staple, no excuses. Sun damage is the number one culprit of premature ageing. Introducing a chemical exfoliant into your regime is a good idea too – this improves the surface of the skin by stripping away dead skin cells to reveal fresh skin below. Look for ones like this, containing AHAs, BHAs and PHAs (they’re acids that help to dissolve dead skin cells). Microdermabrasion will help too, by vacuuming dead skin (which can leave skin looking dull). Last up, stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet (rosé and Dominos optional).
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2 In your 30s
Time to introduce products rich in antioxidants (think vitamins C and E). These protect your skin from cell-damaging free radicals – molecules that can contribute to premature ageing. In your 30s, collagen and cell turnover can slow right down, so introducing a retinol will help to kick start collagen production (keeps skin looking plumped up). Lastly, we love a good laughter line, but if you don’t, radiofrequency can help to target fine lines, wrinkles or pigmentation by encouraging collagen and elastin to develop in the skin.
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3 In your 40s
When life begins, they say, but… also when your skin starts going through some pretty significant changes. You may well notice that your favourite products of 10 years ago are no longer cutting it. Try opting for a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Introduce a night cream rich in retinol and restorative peptides (they help to keep skin firm). As the skin loses its ability to naturally produce collagen, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (also known as the non-surgical face lift) will help to tighten and ‘lift’ skin around the face and neck.
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4 In your 50s
You may notice your skin getting a little drier in texture by the time your 60s swing around. Coarser, and more sensitive too (this is due to moisture loss and reduced integrity of the skin barrier). Try layering a lightweight hydrating serum under your SPF, and apply a hyaluronic acid-based moisturiser before bed. Side note – the hairs in your brows may be sparser now, and redefining the shape can be seriously transformative. Light strokes with a pencil will help to create shape where it may now be lacking, while microblading is a slightly more extreme version of bringing back the brows.
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