As we journey through life, our skin undergoes a remarkable transformation, reflecting the passage of time. Ageing is a natural, inevitable process that affects every layer, texture, and aspect of our skin. From the visible emergence of fine lines and wrinkles to the more subtle shifts in elasticity and hydration, the ageing of our skin is a multifaceted journey, influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Ageing can be categorised into intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic ageing is the natural, genetic ageing that occurs over time, leading to changes like reduced collagen production and slower cell turnover. Extrinsic ageing is caused by external factors like sun exposure, smoking, and poor diet, which can accelerate the ageing process.
Understanding the intricacies of how our skin changes with age is pivotal for tailoring our skincare routines and habits to maintain its health, vibrancy, and resilience. While we cannot completely prevent ageing, there are ways to slow down its visible effects and maintain a youthful- looking appearance. Adopting a holistic approach including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management and a consistent skincare routine is crucial to combat the visible effects of ageing.
As our skin changes through the ageing process, so should our skincare routine. What you used in your 20s, may not be helpful in your 50s. Below we look at what is happening to the skin each decade of your life and what products you can use to age gracefully.
PRE-TEEN
During the pre-teen years, the skin is still in the early stages of development. It has thinner layers, making it more susceptible to dehydration and sensitivity. At this age, it’s crucial not to overuse products and to focus on gentle, hydrating ingredients. Many pre-teens may experience some form of skin dryness, and it’s not uncommon for parents to find their children struggling with conditions like eczema and other dermatitis.
Dry, flaking, and red skin can be indicative of underlying factors like diet, genetics, or environmental influences. To soothe dry skin, it’s best to opt for emollient, clean products that do not contain potentially irritating ingredients like fragrance or denatured alcohols.
TEENAGERS
During the teenage years, the skin typically boasts a youthful glow and resilient quality. However, the onset of puberty and hormonal changes can lead to increased sebum (oil) production, making the skin more prone to blemishes and breakouts.
The skin’s sebaceous glands become more active, and this heightened oil production can result in clogged pores, blackheads, and whiteheads.
It’s not uncommon for teenagers to experience acne-related issues during this phase. Establishing a good skincare routine in the teenage years is crucial not only for managing blemishes but also for laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy-looking skin. Cleansing the skin to remove excess oil and impurities is essential, however it is important to ensure that the correct products are used. Using products that are too harsh can cause the skin’s natural barrier to be damaged and cause the skin to increase oil production even more. Non- comedogenic products, which do not clog pores, are ideal for this age group to prevent blemishes and breakouts. Additionally, incorporating sun protection into the daily routine is vital to protect the skin from UV damage, which can exacerbate blemishes and lead to signs of premature ageing.
20s
During your 20s, the skin typically retains its youthful-looking appearance with relatively robust collagen and elastin production, providing that coveted smooth and resilient complexion.
However, while the skin still exudes a youthful- looking glow, it’s crucial to initiate preventive measures as the skin’s natural regenerative processes begin to slow down. Cumulative sun exposure is a significant factor in the appearance of signs of premature ageing and can lead to the development of fine lines, pigmentation issues, and a loss of skin elasticity, so sun protection continues to be of the utmost importance. Establishing healthy skincare habits and introducing active ingredients into your skin care routine during your 20s can help prevent the visible signs of ageing. Look for multi-tasking products that contain active ingredients at lower strengths. For example, Medik8’s Daily Radiance Vitamin C incorporates a moisturiser, Vitamin C to photo protect and sun protection.
30s
In your 30s, the skin undergoes a significant transition as the early signs of ageing begin to appear.
Collagen fibres become thinner and less organised, leading to the appearance of fine lines, particularly around the eyes and mouth and a reduction in skin firmness. Skin cell turnover also starts to slow down, which contributes to an uneven skin texture and dull complexion. Sun damage accrued in earlier years can become more apparent, leading to an increased need for diligent sun protection. The use of products containing ingredients like vitamin A and vitamin C become more important to help prevent visible signs of premature ageing and mitigating pigmentation concerns. Additionally, moisturisation and hydration should be included to combat dryness and preserve skin moisture, contributing to a healthier-looking and more radiant complexion.
40s
In your 40s, the skin undergoes a series of noticeable changes as the effects of ageing become increasingly apparent. One of the key transformations is the thinning of the skin, which can lead to increased sensitivity, redness, and dryness. Estrogen levels decline during this stage, contributing to a reduction in collagen production.
Weakened collagen and elastin fibres result in skin that appears less “full”, making fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots more pronounced. Incorporating a supplement into your daily regime can help to boost internal collagen, while skincare in your 40s should focus on ingredients such as retinoids and peptides, to enhance skin’s resilience. In addition to the thinning of the skin, the 40s can also bring about changes in skin texture and tone. Skin may become more uneven, with a tendency to develop age-related pigmentation issues, including sunspots and melasma. The skin’s natural ability to retain moisture and maintain a healthy barrier function may also be compromised. As a result, addressing skin dryness and ensuring intense hydration are key priorities during this age bracket.
50s
In your 50s, the skin undergoes a more noticeable transformation as the signs of ageing become increasingly prominent. One of the primary factors driving these changes is hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women experiencing menopause. Estrogen levels decline significantly, which directly impacts the skin’s hydration and thickness. Deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and a loss of facial volume are characteristic of this age bracket. Maintaining moisture is essential to counteract the loss of skin hydration, using active hydrating spray, such as DMK Aminodine, can assist oils and moisturisers to penetrate deeper into the epidermis can help support the skin’s natural barrier function.
60s AND BEYOND
In your 60s and beyond, the skin undergoes significant thinning, increased dryness, and greater fragility. This is due to a significant reduction in the density of collagen and elastin fibres.
The skin barrier, responsible for retaining moisture and protecting against environmental stressors, can become compromised, which can lead to skin fragility, making it essential to prioritise gentle skincare. Sun protection becomes even more critical to prevent further damage, and ingredients that support the skin barrier function should be included to safeguard skin and moisture retention. Vitamin B3, which is Niacinamide, is an exceptionally healing and hydrating ingredient to support skin barrier. Skincare in this age bracket is aimed at maintaining skin comfort, promoting a more youthful-looking appearance, and addressing the challenges posed by ageing skin.
The changing nature of skincare as we age underscores the importance of recognising that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to achieving the best results. Our skin is a dynamic canvas that evolves over time, influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Acknowledging this complexity allows us to embrace a personalised and adaptable skincare routine that can cater to the specific needs of our skin at different life stages. Whether we are navigating the exuberance of youth, the transitional phases of adulthood, or the graceful wisdom of later years, tailoring our skincare regimen to our unique requirements is the key to maintaining skin vitality, and radiance. By understanding the science behind ageing and the ever-evolving landscape of skincare products and techniques, we empower ourselves to make informed choices that nurture and cherish our skin throughout life’s beautiful journey.
