Skincare journey. As we age and our skin changes, so should our skincare.

Skincare needs can vary based on factors such as age, skin type (what you’re born with), skin condition (develops as a direct result of something like hormones, illness, lifestyle, weather, emotional state), or individual concerns. However, a basic skincare routine includes cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.  The types and texture of these basics will need to be adjusted as you get older, but you may also want to consider incorporating additional ingredients to address your specific concerns. Here's a general guideline for each age group:

20s:  Skin is generally at its peak in terms of firmness, elasticity, and collagen production. Targeted treatments for breakouts may be necessary.

1. Cleanser: A cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin.

2. Moisturizer: Lightweight to keep the skin hydrated.

3. Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher for daily protection against UV rays.

4. Salicylic acid: (If needed) Perhaps salicylic acid’s greatest strength is its ability to unclog pores. Skincare products, makeup, dead skin, sweat, and environmental pollutants can all clog pores, which in turn can cause acne, blackheads, and cysts. When salicylic acid is applied to the skin, it absorbs into hair follicles, dries out excess oil, and causes dead skin cells to slough off. It’s also an anti-inflammatory agent, making it great for treating red or irritated skin.

30s: You may start to notice early signs of aging, such as fine lines. It’s a good time to be proactive.

1. Cleanse, moisturize, sunscreen and consider adding the following--

2. Retinol: A low concentration of retinol to promote skin renewal, unblock pores, and reduce early signs of aging.

3. Antioxidants: Vitamin C will protect the skin’s surface from external factors like UV rays and pollution.

4. Eye Cream: A hydrating eye cream to address early signs of fine lines and hydrate the eye area.

5. Exfoliation: Using a physical exfoliator can help boost collagen production, promote cell turnover, and address uneven skin tone and texture.
   

40s: You may notice more significant signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and changes in skin elasticity,

1. What you used in your 30's and consider adding from the list below.

2. Hyaluronic acid: As collagen production starts to decrease, this becomes more important for maintaining skin hydration. It’s a humectant that attracts and retains your skin cell moisture, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines. Serums contain higher concentrations of ingredients than creams or lotions. Using a serum delivers the HA to your skin while simultaneously stimulating the production of your own hyaluronic acid, increasing the resilience of aging skin.

3. Peptides: Peptides are fragmented proteins that boost collagen production, improve skin firmness, and strengthen the skin barrier. They are easily absorbed and consumed by the skin.  They act as a good diet for the skin, allowing it to function normally.

4. Antioxidants: As stated above, Vitamin C helps prevent and repair skin cell damage. Vitamin C also has an illuminating effect and is ideal for dullness, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. It is also vital in wound healing because it aids in stabilizing collagen. Vitamin E is another antioxidant.  It has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and improves moisture and damage from sun exposure.

5. Retinol: A higher concentration of Retinol is suggested and valuable for promoting collagen production, improving skin texture, and addressing deeper wrinkles.

6. Niacinamide: With frequent use, niacinamide can reduce fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and blotchiness. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps strengthen the skin barrier while addressing concerns like uneven skin tone, redness, and enlarged pores.

7. Exfoliation: Incorporating an AHA like Glycolic and or Latic Acid in your weekly routine can aid in exfoliation, promote cell turnover, and address dullness, uneven skin tone and texture.
   

50s: You will most likely notice increased dryness, loss of elasticity, and deeper wrinkles.

1. What you've used in your 40's and consider adding from the list below.

2. Ceramides: Ceramides are lipid molecules that help maintain the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and improving overall hydration.

3. Rich Moisturizer: A more nourishing moisturizer to combat dryness that can come with age as the natural hyaluronic acid in our skin begins to decrease.
   

60s and beyond: The focus is on hydration, collagen support, and addressing advanced signs of aging.

1. Continue using the foundational products and consider adding these.

2. Intensive Hydration: Use products with ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids to reinforce the skin barrier.

3. Retinol: Consider higher concentrations if tolerated, for continued skin renewal.

4. Calming Ingredients: Products with anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile or green tea to soothe sensitive skin.