ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE

Skin changes over time and it’s imperative that your skincare routine changes along with it. Using the right products at the right time will ensure a glowing complexion at any age.

WHAT IS AGEING AND WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?

Fine lines, wrinkles, dullness and sagging skin are all natural signs of ageing in skin. Changes can be intensified by factors such as genetics, hormones, pollution and climate, but usually begin to appear from the age of 25.

On the surface, skin may begin to appear dry and rough as cell turnover and production of sebum (the skin's natural oil) slows down. In the deeper layers, our levels of collagen and elastin also drop, which can cause fine lines, wrinkles and thin, sagging skin. When it comes to skincare, the umbrella term ‘anti-ageing’ refers to products and ingredients that treat or prevent the signs of passing time. Sun protection, a healthy diet, and drinking less alcohol will all help to preserve skin, but thanks to advancing scientific research, skincare is more effective than ever.

KEY INGREDIENTS FOR ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE

Vitamin A reigns supreme when it comes to fighting the signs of ageing. This powerhouse antioxidant is scientifically proven to speed up cell turnover, helping the skin to repair faster and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also stimulates the production of collagen to create a plumping effect.

Another anti-ageing essential is Vitamin B3, which also stimulates collagen production and has been proven to treat fine lines. Keeping skin strong and hydrated, B3 bolsters the skin barrier and encourages moisture retention.

Known for boosting skin radiance and renewal, Vitamin C should also be part of your anti-ageing skincare arsenal. This turbo-charged antioxidant helps to prevent free radical damage by boosting UV protection in skin. It also brightens (and evens) skin tone and helps to stimulate collagen and elastin production.

CoEnzyme Q10 is a potent antioxidant that the body produces naturally, however, production levels slow down as we age. Applied topically as part of your skincare ritual, it will keep skin healthy, fight free radical damage and improve firmness.

WHEN SHOULD I USE ANTI-AGEING PRODUCTS?

It’s never too late (or too early) to start using anti-ageing skincare products, but the sooner, the better. In fact, they can work preventatively to slow down the onset of visible changes to the skin.

Each of the key active ingredients above can improve the appearance of skin at any age. The body’s production of collagen and elastin slows down from around the age 25, so that’s a great time to start.

ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE THROUGHOUT YOUR LIFETIME

The first step in fighting the signs of ageing is sun protection, which should start in childhood.

From around the age of 18, incorporate Vitamin C in your skincare routine to help boost protection from UV rays and pollution.

Many teens may already be using a Vitamin A-based product as it’s proven to treat acne. If you are new to Vitamin A, 25 is the prime age to invest. That goes for Vitamin B and CoEnzyme Q10, too.

As you reach your 40s and 50s, it’s likely that skin will need more support to stay hydrated. Your skincare routine should include all the essential layers: antioxidant-rich serums featuring Vitamin A, B and C; nourishing moisturiser; eye cream; daily sunscreen; and a weekly hydration masque.

ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE FOR DIFFERENT SKIN TYPES

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to anti-ageing skincare because we all have different concerns and skin types. Sensitive skin may be more reactive to Vitamin A, so it’s important to start small and slow. Begin using it just once a week then gradually progress to twice a week, every second day, then a daily application.

To treat dry skin, include a deeply nourishing moisturiser in your routine to work alongside your anti-ageing treatments.

If you are prone to oily skin, don’t be fooled into thinking you can leave out moisturisers and oils. A face oil formulated with the right ingredients can actually help to regulate your skin’s natural oil production.

BEST ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE PRODUCTS AND ROUTINE

Every product in the Mx Skincare range is designed to fight the signs of ageing. Try the Mx Skincare Hero Pack for optimal results.