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Could a cream, serum, or retinol be the secret to unlocking the fountain of youth?
The verdict is still uncertain, and it may all be attributed to favorable genetics, but we can all make an effort to safeguard our skin from early signs of aging once we reach the age of 40.
As we get older, the structural elements of our skin, including collagen, decrease. This is not a secret, according to Lizz Star, Origins’ executive director of global product development.
Repeated facial movements can cause the development of small lines on the skin. As skin ages, it also tends to have less moisture, leading to a dull and dry appearance.
According to Star, it’s never too early to start taking care of your skin by using hydrating products.
According to Valérie Cenizo, manager of the skin biology laboratory at L’Occitane, as we get older, our skin’s needs change and require a more specific and thorough skincare regimen.
Staying hydrated and well-nourished is a basic necessity, but once you reach the age of 40, it becomes even more crucial to make it a top priority.
Experts reveal their top advice for maintaining youthful skin with a skincare routine…
1. Cleanse with care
Star suggests considering whether your skincare routine needs adjustments as your skin changes. Are you cleansing too often and experiencing increased dryness?
“Take another look at the type of cleanser you use and how often you cleanse and exfoliate.”
“She suggests trying a creamy or oil-based cleanser, or reducing the frequency of scrubbing.”
2. Utilize a specialized serum.
Cenizo suggests using a serum that targets specific skin concerns. She suggests trying an overnight serum, as some are suitable for all ages and can help improve the skin’s barrier function.
Star suggests incorporating a targeted serum into your skincare routine to address age-related issues such as sagging skin and wrinkles. There are numerous high-quality options available on the market.
Moisturize using creams designed for your specific age
Cenizo recommends using a daily cream to enhance hydration, nourishment, and skin defense. As we age, skin requires additional protection from external factors, as the skin’s barrier weakens and thins after 40.
“It is advantageous to promote cell regeneration, strengthen the skin’s protective barrier, and introduce a protective element.” She explains, “A compromised barrier can lead to dehydration and leave the skin vulnerable to daily environmental stressors, accelerating the signs of aging.”
She suggests using moisturizing and nourishing creams that include essential oils known for their antioxidant and protective properties for the skin. These help reduce the effects of daily stressors, which can lead to improved collagen production, skin firmness, and elasticity.
Gemma Jones, brand trainer at Institut Esthederm, states that collagen is a bodily protein that provides structure, strength, and support.
“It provides the skin with a rejuvenated, full, and taut appearance while also promoting elasticity and safeguarding against drooping. Regrettably, as time passes and external influences take effect, the skin’s protein regeneration process declines.”
Allow the use of retinol.
Adding retinol to your daily routine can have a significant impact on your skin, according to Soraya Saint-Clair, a skin specialist at Boots. This powerful skincare ingredient helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, blemishes, and pores by speeding up the turnover of skin cells.
For those new to using this product, she suggests beginning with a lower strength to prevent any potential sensitivity and reduce irritation, such as using it at night.
“Start by using it only once or twice a week on nights that are not back-to-back, and slowly increase the frequency before working up to a higher concentration,” she suggests.
Add sunscreen to your daily skincare regimen.
Saint-Clair emphasizes the importance of applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen as a key step in your daily skincare routine, regardless of your age.
There are numerous simple formulas that can be worn under makeup or used as the last step in your morning skincare routine after moisturizing.
Saint-Clair suggests using at least SPF 30 and a strong UVA shield throughout the year to shield against harm caused by both UVA and UVB rays.
Finally, remember to not go to bed with make-up on. This can block your pores, causing breakouts. Also, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Source: independent.co.uk