Should you change your skin care routine with age?

As you age and grow, you might be wondering if you should change and adapt your skincare routine. The short answer is yes. As you get older, your skin needs additional care and support to keep it looking young and vibrant. 

If you’re ready to learn more about how to look after your skin, then keep reading this short guide. 

How your skin changes over the decades

It’s no secret that as we get older, our bodies slow down and stop rejuvenating themselves as effectively. In our youth, our bodies produce increased oils and collagen, but as we get older, this decreases dramatically, alongside a slower cell turnover, and skin dryness. 

Of course, while being out in the sun can be great for our mood, without adequate protection, harmful UVA and UVB rays can worsen the effects, prematurely aging our skin and making us appear older than we are. 

Fortunately, there are a few key ways to combat this. 

Introducing anti-aging active ingredients at the right time

There are various active ingredients you can use to help look after your skin and maintain a youthful appearance. Of course, you do have to know when to start using them. If you start using these products too early, the active ingredients may be too potent for your skin and end up causing irritation, sensitivity, and dryness instead. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a great ingredient for firming and brightening your skin. That means if you’ve noticed any dark spots or slight sagging in your late 20s, it might be time to add some vitamin C to your routine. Look for various creams and topical agents that use it as a key ingredient. 

Peptides & retinoids

Another type of firming agent, peptides and retinoids are perfect for boosting collagen production. Any products containing these ingredients can be used to target wrinkles and skin elasticity in your 40s. 

Integrating barrier health

One of the most important ways you can protect your skin’s barrier health is by being careful with the products you apply. Using effective topical creams that offer hydration and protection is key to looking after your skin. 

Ideally, you should apply these in the morning. This ensures the barrier is in place and ready to keep you protected from the sun, as well as any potential contaminants (like smog and grime) you might encounter throughout the day. 

Incorporating retinol and sun protection

When you’re ready to step up your routine, introducing retinol skin care can enhance collagen production. We also recommend you pair it with a suitable SPF to balance out any sensitivity. 

That’s because while retinol is an excellent ingredient for ensuring your skin remains youthful, it’s also particularly strong, which may leave your skin feeling sensitive. Regularly using adequate sun protection ensures all your bases are covered, giving you healthy, protected skin, no matter your age.