What Age Should I Start Using Anti-Aging Products?
Concerned that you might be behind on using anti-aging skin care products? It can be confusing to know when to start an anti-aging regimen, especially with all the conflicting marketing out there. Here are some tips about how and when to take care of your skin with anti-aging products.
Signs of Aging
If you’re already noticing things like dark spots, wrinkles, sagging, or hollow skin, you definitely need to start using an anti-aging skin care line. The frequent facial expressions we make — think smiling, frowning, laughing, and squinting — the folds in our skin that are temporary soon become more permanent. As these muscles tighten over and over, a fine line begins to form, which eventually turns into a crease.
Not only that, but the body produces less and less collagen and elastin as we age — the naturally occurring substances that help keep skin firm and youthful. Add in excess sun exposure, scarring from acne or trauma to the skin, and free radicals in the air, in our foods, and in our medications… and skin can start to look very old quickly. If you’re in your mid-twenties and haven’t started using an anti-aging skin care regimen, it’s time to begin. If you’re beyond those years, luckily, it’s never too late to start a regimen.
Using an Anti-Aging Skincare Regimen
Any skincare regimen that’s appropriate for your skin type, made of high-quality ingredients, and is consistently used can be considered “anti-aging.” The best thing you can do for your skin is to cleanse, tone, and moisturize regularly. Look for the word “non-comedogenic” on product labels to make sure the ingredients won’t clog your pores. Find a gentle cleanser that won’t irritate your skin or cause it to break out. Choose an alcohol-free toner (hint: sometimes alcohol is labeled “ethanol.”) And moisturizer is crucial for anti-aging efforts since the skin loses a lot of hydration over the years.
Additional anti-aging products might include a serum, which can add some more hydration and better penetrate the skin. You might also tack on an eye cream, which you can apply before bed. And it’s a good idea to choose at least one product with SPF 30 or more to protect against skin cancer and sun damage.
Other anti-aging ingredients to look for are retinol, peptides, antioxidants like Vitamin C, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHA.) Just make sure that anything you use doesn’t irritate your skin or cause pores to become clogged with excess sebum. Talking with a dermatologist before applying anything to your face will help mitigate these issues.
Lifestyle Factors
Factors that quickly lead to aging skin include excess sun exposure, so always protect your skin with SPF 50 or higher in the sun and avoid tanning beds or booths altogether. Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated, and don’t smoke cigarettes.
Between the ages of 25 and 40, you should consider regular dermatological screenings. These appointments will give you a chance to ask any questions about your skin, catch potential issues early, and explore anti-aging treatments like a chemical peel, which can not only minimize wrinkles but also reduce acne scars.
Contact North Pacific Dermatology
If you’re in the Bellevue, Washington area and looking for a dermatologist, contact North Pacific Dermatology today for an appointment.