Aging is an inevitable process that we all experience. I know, boooooo. Big thumbs down.
However, we can take steps to minimize the signs of aging and keep our skin looking youthful for longer. The key to an effective anti-aging skincare routine is consistency. By following a routine that is tailored to your skin type and concerns, you can keep your skin looking healthy and radiant for years to come.
Here's how to do it.
PLEASE, wash your face
The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. As we age, our skin becomes drier and less elastic, making it more prone to wrinkles and fine lines, so it’s important to choose a gentle cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Look for a cleanser that is formulated for sensitive skin, and avoid products that contain harsh ingredients like alcohol or sulfates. Harsh cleansers can strip the skin barrier, leaving it dry, irritated, and more susceptible to environmental stressors.
Exfoliation is also an important step in an anti-aging skincare routine. As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down, which can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells and a dull, lackluster complexion. To combat this, use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week to help slough off dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin. Exfoliation also helps to stimulate cell turnover, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Skin Saving Serums
Serums are another step in your skincare routine you should never skip. Packed with concentrated doses of active, anti-aging ingredients, they target specific skin concerns and deliver powerful results.
But who actually needs a serum? The truth is, EVERYONE can benefit from adding a serum to their skincare routine. Whether you're in your early 20's or well into your golden years, a serum can help to boost your skin's health and appearance.
When it comes to anti-aging, certain ingredients are absolute must-haves. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump the skin, retinol to stimulate collagen production and reduce fine lines, vitamin C to brighten and protect against environmental damage, and peptides to firm and tighten.
Serums are typically applied after cleansing but before your moisturizer. This allows the formula to penetrate deeply into the skin before it's locked in with a heavier moisturizer. You can find serums at a variety of price points, from drugstores to high-end department stores. There are plenty of options available, some likely already made available by your favorite brand.
Moisturize and Use SPF DAILY!
Keeping your skin moisturized is crucial for maintaining a youthful appearance. As we age, our skin becomes drier, so it’s important to use a moisturizer that is rich and hydrating. Look for a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for adding hydration to skin, and apply it twice a day – once in the morning and once at night. Moisturizers help to keep the skin barrier intact, and when applied regularly, can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Sun protection is also crucial for preventing premature aging. Exposure to UV rays can cause fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, so it’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days. To avoid further damage, try to avoid spending time in the sun during peak hours, and wear protective clothing like hats and long-sleeved shirts. Sun damage is one of the primary causes of premature aging, so protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is key in any anti-aging skincare routine. And don't skip the neck, chest, and hands. These are some of the first places that signs of aging will appear, so slather it on those digits.
Be Mindful of Lifestyle Habits
In addition to a regular skincare routine, there are a few lifestyle habits that can help keep your skin looking youthful. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can provide your skin with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and radiant. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts can help to protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Getting enough sleep is also crucial for maintaining healthy skin, as it allows your body to repair and regenerate. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to give your skin the rest it needs to look its best.
Finally, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help prevent premature aging and keep your skin looking its best. Smoking is a major cause of premature aging, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to premature aging by dehydrating the skin and reducing its elasticity. By making healthy lifestyle choices, you can support your skin’s natural ability to regenerate and age well.
Cosmetic Enhancements
While a rock solid skincare routine is essential for maintaining youthful skin, sometimes you might consider additional options. Cosmetic enhancements like Botox, fillers, and facials can provide noticeable results. There's nothing wrong with having a little help!
Botox - This is a popular choice for reducing the appearance of wrinkles caused by facial expressions. It works by temporarily relaxing the underlying muscles, smoothing out lines like crow's feet, forehead creases, and frown lines. While often associated with older individuals, Botox can also prevent the formation of deep wrinkles in younger people. Click here to learn more about Botox.
Fillers - These add volume to areas that have lost fullness due to aging. They can plump lips, enhance cheekbones, soften nasolabial folds (those lines from your nose to your mouth), and improve the overall contours of your face. Fillers typically contain hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in your body. This makes it easy for your body to tolerate it as a "foreign substance" and it dissolves naturally over time.
Facials - These offer a range of benefits, from deep cleansing and exfoliation to targeted treatments for specific skin concerns. They can help improve skin texture, reduce acne, and promote a radiant complexion. There are countless types of facials available, so it's important to choose one that addresses your specific needs.
Remember, cosmetic enhancements should be considered as a complement to your skincare routine, not a replacement. It’s essential to consult with a qualified professional to discuss your goals and determine the best treatment plan for you.
My Routine
I'm no stranger to a strong skincare routine. Even as a kid, I understood the benefits of face masks, ice rollers, and pore strips. Bringing the "spa stuff" to a sleepover was my staple activity to contribute and I often was the instigator when it came to supplying my friends and family with their own skincare goodies. I still uphold strong skincare routines today and have created both a solid morning and night routine that you too can follow should you choose to.
Morning Routine
Cleanse - I use a gentle cleanser in the morning. Usually, my skin was washed the night before and wasn't exposed to any pollutants or irritants overnight. I just need something soft and light like Urban Calm's Purifying Gel Cleanser to rinse off sleep-mode.
Eye Cream - I use a tinted eye cream in the mornings. I tend to not wear a lot of makeup unless it's a special occasion so this gives me some light coverage that lasts all day. Olay's Ultimate Eye Cream is a great choice!
Serums - I use a hyaluronic acid serum by Good Molecules and Vitamin C serum by Mad Hippie to start the day. This adds some extra hydration without too much weight.
Moisturizer - I lock everything in with a moisturizer packed with collagen peptides. Olay has a great one that's lightweight and fragrance free so it's not irritating to skin.
Sunscreen - I always finish with a sunscreen. Any time of year, any time of day, even if I'm indoors and it's cloudy. Neutrogena's face sunscreen is a favorite for me!
Night Routine
Cleanse or Exfoliate - I will opt for a light cleanser again or a deeper exfoliant, like this classic from Ulta, if I wore makeup that day. This helps remove any 'junk' from my pores.
Eye Cream - I use a heavier eye cream that's geared for night time. Currently I'm loving the Wilder's Prime Moisturizing Eye Cream. It has marine collagen and avocado oil and while it's technically marketed towards men, anyone with eyes can use this one.
Serums - I use a Biome Brightening Ampoule from Earth Harbor or a retinol from The Ordinary. These are both a little more oily and great for a night in.
Moisturizer - I'll finish off with a light moisturizer like what I used in the morning to lock things in or use one with salicylic acid like this one from Neutralyze if I'm breaking out.
You can see all my skincare faves on my Benable page here.
While we cannot stop the aging process, we can take steps to minimize its effects on our skin. By following a regular skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and sun protection, we can keep our skin looking healthy and radiant for years to come. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, we can further support our skin’s natural ability to regenerate and age well. So, start taking care of your skin today and enjoy a youthful, radiant complexion for years to come!
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