There’s no denying that we’re more clued-in to skincare than ever before. Thanks to breakthroughs in science, innovative skincare products and, of course, the emergence of Instagram skin-fluencers, we’re now acutely aware of our skin and its need to be looked after.
But as we continue to age, it’s vital we learn exactly what we should be doing to our skin and, more importantly, when.
Below, we round-up the skincare routine you should be following according to your age.
Mecca Cosmetica water bottle, $24
30s
The good news is that by your 30s, you have most likely seen the worst of you acne, however the bad news is that it’s because your skin is beginning to dry out. As we age, our skin cell turnover begins to slow. This transition means that dead cells start accumulating on the surface of our skin, interfering with light reflection and contributing to dullness. Other skin concerns you’ll start to notice: pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, sun spots, crepey under-eye skin and enlarged pores. (Sorry!)
Cleanse twice daily and make sure you exfoliate every three to five days to help nix the build up of dead skin cells. Introduce powerful ingredients that have been proven to help fight signs of fatigue such as retinol. Working to renew the look of skin throughout the day, smooth wrinkles and diminish the look of dark spots, retinol has become the gold-standard of anti-ageing skincare ingredients.
Our pick: Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream is a tried-and-true way to smooth and moisturise the skin, and buff out any stubborn wrinkles. It’s loaded up with an Accelerated Retinol SA that includes a Glucose Complex (a Retinol SA booster) and Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration. Add it to your routine and apply twice daily for nourished, glowing skin.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream, $48.99 at Chemist Warehouse
40s
With skin cell turnover continuing to slow, your skin will lose some of its elasticity, which can result in jowls, sagging skin around the eyes and the enlarging of pores. The reduction of sebaceous oil further dries the skin, which means facial oils become a must. Many women will go through menopause in their 40s, which causes hormones to go haywire. As well as developing dry skin, you can also experience a type of acne called perioral dermatitis.
Make sure you are cleansing your face twice a day, and use a night oil with time-released ingredients that will rejuvenate the skin throughout the entire night. Neutrogena’s popular Rapid Wrinkle Retinol Oil uses an exclusive retinol formula that intensely nourishes the skin overnight and has been clinically proven to reduce the look of stubborn and deep wrinkles. Add the fast-absorbing oil to your nightly skincare routine and notice results in just a month.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil, $42.99 at Chemist Warehouse
50s
When you hit your fifties, gravity really begins to do its thing, resulting in jowls and sagging skin. Add to this, the decrease in skin’s natural collagen production, and you’re also likely to see the appearance of crow’s feet and neck wrinkles. Unfortunately, it’s at this age where poor skincare choices in your 20s or 30s begin to show up, so prevention is key.
Change-up your cleanser to a richer formula that promises not to dry out your skin. Retinol continues to be important to maintain the use of face creams and oils that contain the line-erasing property. Look to a cream-based moisturiser that contains antioxidants that will assist in restoring the appearance of damaged skin such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid. Don’t forget to show your neck and décolletage just as much love as your face!
Finally, look to plant-based supplements that can help to support skin, hair and nail function.
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60s +
The skin issues that began in your 50s will continue to develop in the years following, but at a more pronounced rate. While you should get your skin checked for signs of skin cancer regularly from your 20s, these routine checks will become more important than ever. Fine lines around your lips will become more pronounced, as will a loss in lip volume.
As you continue to age, turn to products that help to aid your skin barrier. Use products that contain hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and smooth lines, retinol to stimulate collagen and rich shea butter to moisturise and nourish. It’s also time to solidify your relationship with a dermatologist who can offer ongoing skincare support.
Brought to you by Neutrogena
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