Ageing can manifest itself on our faces as fine lines, wrinkles, volume loss and sagging – and whilst it’s true that it’s a natural process, for many of us, it doesn’t make it any easier. When signs appear prematurely, it can knock your confidence and leave you feeling older than your years, so it’s little wonder that anti-ageing skincare has become such a booming market that brings in millions in revenue globally each year.
If you’ve already got a comprehensive arsenal of luxurious anti-ageing lotions and potions on your bathroom shelves, then you might be wondering what else you could possibly do to defy time for a little bit longer, but the good news is that with a consistent strategy in place, you can maintain your radiant complexion for years to come.
There are several proactive steps you can be taking to combat the visible effects of ageing. Here, we take a look at the top expert strategies and skincare techniques to effectively address them, helping you embrace your skin’s natural beauty at every stage of life.
Understanding the ageing process
As we age, the skin undergoes structural changes, and a decrease in the amount of collagen and elastin produced can lead to a loss of elasticity and firmness, as well as sagging. Add to that the triple threat of pollution, sun exposure and other lifestyle habits like smoking or drinking alcohol regularly, and the ageing process can be further accelerated, resulting in premature lines and wrinkles and a loss of that youthful radiance.
Prioritise sun protection
Contrary to popular belief, SPF protection isn’t just for bright summer’s days when the sun is at its strongest, and in fact, should be applied diligently, all year round. The sun’s powerful UV rays are a key contributor to aging and can cause collagen to break down more quickly, as well as photoaging and sunspots, even on the dullest, greyest days of the year. Incorporating a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher into your daily skincare routine is an essential move if you’re keen to slow down the effects of ageing on the skin, so, apply it generously to all exposed areas, including the face, neck, and hands. It’s also wise to stay out of the sun when it’s at its strongest, so in summer, or if you’re away somewhere hot on holiday, seek shade during peak sun hours and wear protective items like a hat and sunglasses, to minimise sun damage.
Invest in quality skincare products
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to skincare, as everyone’s skin is different and has its own unique set of needs. However, by knowing your basic skin type, you can choose products that are designed to address your specific set of issues – whether you’re dealing with dryness, oiliness or other skin concerns like acne and rosacea and ensure that you’re nourishing your skin with the best possible ingredients to keep it looking and feeling its best.
Where ageing is concerned, you’ll also want to seek out products that are packed with potent ingredients designed to minimise and slow the visible signs, too – look for formulations containing retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A and stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin texture. Vitamin C is another secret weapon to have up your sleeve, and it has the power to brighten the complexion, protect against environmental damage, and promote collagen synthesis, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps the skin and peptides boost collagen and elastin production for firmer, smoother skin.
Stay hydrated from the inside out
Hydration is key when it comes to combatting the signs of ageing, both internally and externally. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help to ensure your skin stays hydrated from within, keeping your complexion glowing and minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. From a topical standpoint, hydration is just as crucial, and incorporating hydrating skincare products like serums, facial oils and night creams into your routine will help to lock in moisture and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Humectant ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which attract and retain moisture in the skin, are particularly beneficial, so be sure to look out for those.
Consider aesthetic treatments
Of course ageing can’t be prevented entirely, non-invasive cosmetic and aesthetic treatments like dermal fillers and botox have become increasingly popular over recent years and provide a solution for their effective anti-ageing results. These quick procedures require minimal downtime, making them attractive options for those seeking youthful rejuvenation without undergoing surgery, and recent technological advancements have led to safer and more precise application methods, further boosting their appeal.
Injectable filler Ellanse, for example, offers a unique approach by not only providing immediate volume enhancement but also stimulating collagen production for longer-lasting results. It contains a biocompatible ingredient called polycaprolactone (PCL), which gradually breaks down in the body while promoting collagen synthesis to offer natural-looking rejuvenation that can be used to minimise the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and loss of volume. Whilst it’s now possible to buy Ellanse online, going to a registered professional with a proven track record is crucial for the best results.
