In an effort to provide guidance on the proper skincare regimen for mature skin, we sought the expertise of dermatologists and skincare specialists.
For those facing the inevitable effects of natural aging, such as sagging skin and more noticeable wrinkling, these recommendations can revitalize your complexion, making it appear more rejuvenated, hydrated, elastic, and luminous if you’re over 40.
Keep reading for insightful tips and advice from the following skincare professionals: Gabrielle Richens, certified skin therapist, anti-aging skin coach and founder of The Rich Skin Club and dermatologists Dr. Angela Casey, M.D., founder of youth skincare line Bright Girl and Dr. Luigi L. Polla, founder of Forever Institut and Alchimie Forever.
3 Essential Skincare Steps To Promote Radiance For Aging Skin
1. Washing Your Face With A pH-Balanced Cleanser
According to Casey, it's important to consider the skin's circadian rhythm when establishing morning skincare routines. During the overnight hours, the skin undergoes a period of rest and repair, which means that by morning, it has already completed this crucial phase.
"Skin permeability is less in the morning compared to the evening, and blood flow to the skin slows," she explains. She points out that penetration of hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds peaks in the early morning hours.
"All of these factors should be taken into consideration as we address morning skincare," she stresses.
Casey goes on to say that the first essential step in an anti-aging skincare routine is to "wash your face with a pH-balanced, gentle cleanser using lukewarm water."
This first step, she notes, "refreshes the skin and removes any sweat and debris that may have accumulated overnight."
2. Applying A Vitamin C Serum
Following the cleansing of the skin to remove dirt and oil accumulated during the night, it is commonly assumed that the next step should be moisturizing.
However, it is important to note that although moisturizing is crucial (when it comes to delaying the formation of wrinkles and sagging skin), according to Richens, it is highly recommended to apply a Vitamin C serum onto the skin right after cleansing and before moisturizing to enhance a natural glow.
"Vitamin C serum is a crucial morning skincare step for anti-aging, no matter your age or skin type," Richens says. This kind of serum, she continues, acts as a "shield between your skin and the outside world," giving users a brighter, more even skin tone, as well as a boost in collagen production. This, she notes, "strengthens the skin barrier and smooths out wrinkles."
"This extra layer of protection, as you go about your day, helps to prevent skin damage triggered by daily exposure to UVA rays, pollution, industrial chemicals and more," Richens adds.
No matter what your skin type is (dry, oily or combination), Vitamin C serum has benefits that when paired with moisturizer can keep your complexion looking vibrant.
Knowing your skin type out of the main three can help you find the right product, Richens points out. If you have sensitive skin, Richens recommends "starting low with a 5-10 percent concentration, and work your way up."
She also explains that "normal, dry, oily, or mature skin can handle higher concentrations," and that the "sweet spot for most skin types is around 15-20 percent."
3. Adding A Hydrating Moisturizer With Sunscreen & SPF
Undoubtedly, you've likely been reminded of this advice in the past, but it bears repeating as a crucial step in your morning skincare routine for combating the effects of aging.
It is vital that you consistently apply SPF every single day, regardless of the weather, temperature, or any activities you may have planned.
According to Dr. Polla, not only should you moisturize your skin post-cleansing, but you should also apply sunscreen or opt for a moisturizer that includes SPF.
"I recommend [to] apply sunscreen even if indoors, as you’re prone to SPF exposure through the windows and oftentimes, we end up running outside for an unplanned errand," Polla says.
When faced with an abundance of moisturizer choices at your nearby drugstore and unsure of which to purchase, Polla suggests opting for a daytime-specific product that contains all the necessary protective ingredients.
"Use a day moisturizer packed with both antioxidants and SPF, and place it in plain sight, next to your toothpaste," Polla suggests. "This way, you’ll see it in the morning when you go to brush your teeth, and it will prompt you to remember to apply it daily."
If you do nothing else for your skin, he says, this single step will ensure you age as gracefully as possible.
The Bottom Line
Both Vitamin C serum and SPF-packed daytime moisturizer offer unique benefits that promote healthy skin.
Though they cannot entirely ward off aging signs, incorporating these products into your skincare regimen can help maintain a youthful complexion and firmness for as long as possible.
By prioritizing skincare, you can enhance not only your physical appearance but also your mental well-being. Incorporating these two steps after cleansing your face can make a significant contribution to your overall health.
Don't hesitate to start using them, as it's never too late to upgrade your skincare routine!
