Aging is a natural part of life, and our skin changes right along with us. Over time, collagen production decreases, skin can become thinner and drier, and fine lines, wrinkles and changes in tone or texture may become more noticeable. While there’s no way to stop the aging process, there are proven ways to help protect your skin, slow premature aging and keep it looking healthy for years to come.
Start With Sunscreen
If there’s one product that deserves a permanent place in your skincare routine, it’s sunscreen. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation contributes to photoaging, which can lead to wrinkles, discoloration, uneven skin tone and other visible changes. Daily sun protection helps prevent that damage from accumulating over time.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it every day, not just when you’re headed to the pool or spending hours outside. Don’t forget commonly missed areas such as the ears, neck and upper chest. And remember: sunscreen works best when paired with other sun-protective habits, including seeking shade and wearing hats and protective clothing.
Add Antioxidants
Antioxidants can provide another layer of support for healthy skin. Ingredients such as vitamin C help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors while also helping improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and dark spots. A vitamin C serum is commonly applied in the morning before sunscreen, making antioxidants and SPF an easy combination to incorporate into a daily routine.
Consider a Retinoid
Retinoids are among the most established ingredients in dermatology for improving signs of aging. Derived from vitamin A, retinoids encourage skin cell turnover and support collagen production. With consistent use, they can improve fine lines, skin texture, uneven pigmentation and overall skin tone.
Over-the-counter retinol products may be appropriate for some people, while prescription-strength retinoids are another option. Because retinoids can cause dryness and irritation, especially when you first begin using them, starting slowly is important. A dermatologist can help determine which product and strength are best for your skin. Retinoids are generally used at night, with sunscreen remaining essential during the day.
When Skincare Isn’t Enough
For patients who want to address specific signs of aging, in-office treatments can offer additional options. Depending on your skin and your goals, a dermatologist may recommend treatments such as:
- Neuromodulators to temporarily soften expression lines caused by repeated muscle movement.
- Laser and light treatments to address concerns such as discoloration, sun damage, uneven texture and certain fine lines.
- Chemical peels to improve skin tone and texture.
- Dermal fillers to restore volume that naturally decreases with age.
- Microneedling or other collagen-stimulating treatments to improve texture and certain signs of aging.
There isn’t one treatment that’s right for everyone. Skin type, age, degree of sun damage, medical history, desired results and tolerance for downtime can all influence which treatment makes the most sense.
Taking care of aging skin doesn’t have to mean following an elaborate routine or trying every new product that hits the market. A few evidence-based steps can go a long way: protect your skin from the sun, incorporate proven ingredients such as antioxidants and retinoids when appropriate, and talk with a dermatologist if you’re interested in treatments beyond your daily skincare routine.
The goal isn’t to stop aging. It’s to help your skin stay healthy while aging well.