Ageing Skin Care Tips

Ageing is a natural process, and our skin reflects that journey. While lines and wrinkles are a normal part of getting older, understanding the factors that contribute to ageing skin can help us take proactive steps to maintain a healthy, youthful complexion.

What Causes Skin Ageing?

Skin ageing is influenced by a combination of intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) factors:

• Intrinsic Ageing: This is the natural ageing process driven by genetics and time. As we age, our skin’s production of collagen and elastin slows down, leading to decreased elasticity, thinner skin, and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Extrinsic Ageing: This refers to external factors that accelerate the ageing process. The primary culprit is sun exposure, which damages collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. Other extrinsic factors include:

• • Smoking: Reduces blood flow and damages collagen and elastin.

• • Pollution: Exposes skin to free radicals that damage cells.

• • Facial Expressions: Repeated movements like frowning or squinting can etch lines into the skin.

• • Poor Diet: Lack of essential nutrients can affect skin health.

• • Dehydration: Reduces skin’s elasticity and plumpness.

• • Sleep Deprivation: Impairs skin’s ability to repair itself.

Characteristics of Ageing Skin:

• Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Appear around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.

• Loss of Elasticity: Skin becomes less firm and saggy.

• Dryness: Skin produces less oil, leading to dryness and flakiness.

• Uneven Skin Tone: Sun damage can cause hyperpigmentation (age spots) and uneven skin tone.

• Thinning Skin: Skin becomes more fragile and prone to bruising.

How to Care for Ageing Skin

A consistent skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin:

• Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, pH-balanced cleanser to avoid stripping the skin’s natural oils.

• Hydrating Moisturiser: Opt for a rich moisturiser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and antioxidants to hydrate and protect the skin.

• Sun Protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days.

• Targeted Eye Cream: Use an eye cream with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, green tea leaf extract, and vitamin E to address fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes.

• Anti-ageing Actives: Incorporate serums or treatments with ingredients like bakuchiol, vitamin C, or coenzyme Q10 to stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin tone.

• Exfoliation: Gently exfoliate 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.

• Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, manage stress, and avoid smoking to support overall skin health.