As cliché as it sounds, the saying that ‘age is just a number becomes true if you know how to take good care of your skin. You see, our skin faces a lot of foes as we age – sun exposure, genetics, pollution, and years of bad habits and neglect, to name a few – and as a result, it loses its elasticity, suppleness, and strength. As you hit the 30s mark, the wrinkles and fine lines that did not exist in your younger years seem to appear overnight, and not just on your face, but on other areas of the body, too.
Sounds like a nightmare-inducing scenario, right?
Before you fret and be paranoid about every little wrinkle, hear this out: aging is a natural process and all of us will eventually go through it in one way or another. It is inevitable but it can be delayed. Thanks to science and research, there are now proven-and-tested ways to slow down the effects of aging so that you will look and feel as good in your 30s, 40s, 50’s and beyond, as much as you when you were in your 20s!
When you are in your 30s: Treat sunscreen as your BFF
It is during this age that your skin starts to lose elastin and collagen, which make it thinner and less plump. Your skin becomes more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV rays. And sun damage is one of your skin’s worst enemies, so you should counter-attack it with plenty of broad-spectrum sunscreens (at least 50SPF). Do not forget to slather on the sunscreen every day, especially if you are planning to go outdoors and if possible, choose a brand that is non-comedogenic and water-resistant.
When you are in your 40s: Build a solid anti-aging regimen
Your 40s are a pivotal point in the aging process as the production of estrogen drops and the onset of menopause begins. This is also the time when the effects of aging appear more dramatically and suddenly. If you haven’t adopted a skincare regimen at this point, then you should start with the basic steps: cleanse, moisturize, and protect. You should invest in a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer that is rich in antioxidants, and some retinol products as well. You can also add a Vitamin C-based serum for skin brightening and cream with hyaluronic acid to improve the skin’s moisture levels.
When you are in your 50s and beyond: Ditch the alcohol and embrace hydration
During your fifties, the skin becomes a lot drier and rougher, hence, products that contain alcohol are a no-no. The best way to take care of mature skin is by using mild, non-irritating products that will not irritate dry and sensitive skin. You should invest in skincare products that provide good barrier protection, like a cleanser with ceramide or a pH-controlling toner. And always remember to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Stock up on hydrating moisturizers and drink plenty of water – these are surefire ways to combat dryness.
Whatever age group you belong to, you should bear in mind that the best skincare regimen is always a combination of dermatologist-approved skincare products, a healthy lifestyle, discipline, and commitment. You can buy the most expensive creams and serums in the market, but if you do not get enough sleep, water, exercise, or sun protection, it will all be for nothing. Your skin needs care that extends far beyond the surface. You need to take care of your body from the inside so that beauty will radiate on the outside, too.
So, what’s the best-kept skincare tip after all? Find a regimen that works for you and stick to it, not because you feel “forced” to do so, but because it is something that you actually enjoy. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can also try some non-invasive skincare procedures and treatments to restore the areas that need an extra level of TLC. Just make sure that you consult with your dermatologist first before you undergo any procedure.
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