Sure, genetics play a role – but there’s loads you can do to
make the most of your skin at every age…
Unfortunately, none of us get to keep the skin we’re born
with. And it makes no difference how prepared we think we are for the
inevitable, changes that the passing decades bring to our bodies – it still
comes as a shock to look in the mirror and see furrows, liver spots and sagging
folds. It happens to us all at some stage or another – bit there’s no reason we
shouldn’t push that stage out as far as possible!
Here’s our guide to the best beauty practices for each
decade of your life, whether you’re in your twenties, thirties, forties or
fifties (and beyond!).
In your 30s…
‘signs of ageing become apparent as your hormones and cell
turnover rates decline,’ says Cape Town dermatologist Dr. Dilshaad Asmal. ‘Your
skin may also feel drier and look dull and uneven in texture.’ Because sun
damage is accumulative, you’ll also see signs of pigmentation and
discolouration.
Now’s the time to:
·
Add exfoliation to your skincare routine. Aim to exfoliate once
or twice a week.
·
Trade in that extra glass of wine for water or green tea and
increase your daily portions of fruit and vegetables to get great skin from the
inside out.
·
Oil production glands slow down, so upgrade your moisturizer to
something richer. Look for one containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
·
Nourish your skin by introducing a serum into your nighttime
routine.
·
Stress can cause restless nights, resulting in puffy eyes. Combat
this with a good eye cream.
·
Exercise to tone your skin and give it a healthy glow.
Products:
1. Estee Lauder
Advanced Night Repair 30ml
2. Clarins Eye Contour Gel
3. Beaute Pacifique
Enriched Moisturizing Creme for all skin types
4. Dermalogica
Daily Microfoliant
‘Using make-up wipes to take off my make-up. Best invention
ever!’ – Kim Kardashian
In your 40s…
‘At this age your oestrogen and progesterone levels have
decreased, resulting in less collagen, elastin and skin structural proteins,’
says Dr. Asmal. The result? Saggy, wrinkly skin.
Now’s the time to:
·
Introduce products that contain peptides, which help to trigger
collagen production.
·
Opt for a retinol (vitamin A) serum or moisturiser. Retinol
increases skin cell turnover, minimizes pores and boosts collagen production to
help firm and tine the skin, and it’s a miracle worker when it comes to
diminishing fine lines. Apply at night, as retinol can cause sun sensitivity.
·
Try an exfoliating mask, which is less abrasive than an
exfoliating scrub.
·
Get your skin glowing by taking an omega-3 fatty acid supplement.
·
Find an activity that keeps you calm, such as yoga, walking, or a
hobby, as stress can take its toll on your skin.
Products:
1. Estee Lauder
Revitalizing Supreme Global Anti-Aging Crème 30ml
2. Clarins Vital
Light Serum dark spot correcting age repairing 30ml
3. Optiphi
Rejuvenating Revitaliser 40ml
4. Matis Reponse
Yeux Lift Effect Gel
5. Guinot
Biological Peeling Radiance Gel for Face and Neck
Halle Berry is said to mix coffee grinds into her body wash
to keep her rear firm.
In your 50s and beyond…
The hormonal changes in your body are in full swing, causing
skin to become dry and thin. Your skin is more fragile at this age, so it takes
longer to heal.
Now’s the time to:
·
Introduce a serum into your routine to give an extra boost of
moisture – skin can become flaky at this age due to dehydration.
·
‘Combat pigmentation and dark spots with products containing
hydroquinone,’ says Dr. Asmal, ‘or with peels and laser treatments at your
dermatologist.’
·
Keep using creams and serums that contain retinol.
·
Find a rich eye cream that contains antioxidants and a collagen
booster, as eyelids may become hooded and wrinkled due to a breakdown in skin
elasticity.
·
Use a non-permanent lip plumper to fill fine lines that may
appear around your mouth.
·
Use a nourishing serum to keep your complexion looking healthy
and hydrated.
·
Use a gentle cleanser to clean your skin avoiding those with
alcohol, which dehydrates the skin.
Products
1. Chanel Ultra
Correction Lift Lifting Firming Day Fluid SPF 15
2. Avon Anew Age
Repair Crème Cleanse (125ml)
3. Shiseido
Bio-Performance Super Correnctive Serum
4. Physicians
Formula Plump Potion Needle Free Lip Plumping Cocktail
‘I reached an age where I allow myself quiet phases and I
learned to enjoy them.’ - Madonna
