But you are not completely defenceless against the ravaging effects of time and life on your skin; simply adopting a basic facial skincare routine, even later in life, can help to reverse some skin damage and prevent further effects of aging. Anti-aging skincare routines need not be overly complicated, sometimes the simplest things can have a huge impact.
If your skin tends to be dry wash your face and neck once a day, if it is not dry wash twice a day. It is best to avoid using regular bar soap as they tend to strip the skin of the outer layer and make it harder to keep in moisture. Look for an over the counter product that is a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin, but avoid facial scrubs with small particles as these can irritate the skin and cause more issues. For those that tend to get waxy red/pink areas around the nose, ears, eyebrows and hairline be sure to spend a little extra time washing those areas.
After washing apply a moisturizing lotion or cream, but those with oily skin may have to skin this step. Moisturizing helps to recreate an outer barrier on the skin to prevent moisture from escaping as well as stopping foreign substances from getting in. Apply this while the skin is still a bit damp, and look for a moisturizer with fewer than 10 ingredients or one that is for sensitive skin. Ingredients such as niacinamide, squalene, glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid can help to keep skin hydrated, and vitamin C or azelaic acid can help with dark spots specifically. During winter months you may need a thicker moisturizer, and don’t forget that the rest of your body may not show the signs of aging as much but that skin can also benefit from a moisturizer.
If you spend a lot of time in the sun you might want to consider applying a light sunscreen to your face, especially around the eyes, nose, mouth, neck and ears. This might help to protect from skin cancer and the aging effects of sun exposure along with helping to prevent brown spots from appearing and keeping existing ones from worsening. Avoid sprays which can contain alcohol, and look for those that are labeled for sensitive skin or for children. For those looking to up efficiency, you can even look for a combination moisturizing and sunscreen product.
Additionally, one can also help to restore skin aging by using lotions/creams that contain retinoids which help to increase collagen, help to strengthen skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sunspots. Look for products that have retinol or adapalene as the active ingredient, but keep in mind that they can make skin sensitive to sunlight which is why they are suggested to be used at night before bedtime.
