When should you start using anti aging products?
Knowing when to start using anti-aging products can be quite confusing. Some people argue you can never start using these types of products too early, some say to wait as late as possible so as to not make your skin “lazy.” If you want to slow down your skin’s aging process, but still only want to use anti-aging products when your skin is ready for it, we’ve created a list and an explanation for when you should start using them.
Start At Any Age
SPF
Many people don’t think of SPF as an anti-aging product but it’s actually the most powerful product you will ever use in the fight against aging. The sun is the number one factor making our skin grow older faster than we would like. You should be using SPF 15 or higher every single day — 90 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun. “Sun protection (look for broad spectrum protection which covers both UVB and UVA damage) is probably the most important preventive anti-aging treatment you can have for yourself,” says Nannan Chen, Associate Principal Scientist, Garnier Scientific Affairs.
No matter what the weather is like you should be wearing sunscreen. Even if you aren’t spending time basking in the sun, you can still be exposed to the harmful UVB and UVA rays while sitting in a car, by a window, even on a plane. If you wear make up or tinted moisturizer you can kill two birds with one stone by using a product that provides both coverage and SPF. In the summer or on beach days make sure that you are applying SPF all over and re-apply after going into the water.
Start In Your Teens And 20s
Develop good skin care habits that can last a lifetime in your teens and 20s. The decisions you make during these decades can affect your skin for the long run — your skin appearance in your 40s, 50 and 60s will depend on them.
Antioxidant Formulated Serums
Antioxidant formulated serums are a potent way to brighten, restore and refine your skin’s appearance. They can help fade the look of fine lines and dark spots over time. It’s also a great way to protect your skin from free radicals. Use serums formulated with the antioxidants we outlined earlier in the article to reap their skin care benefits. Serums are great to use after exfoliating and before you apply moisturizer. Definitely include an antioxidant formulated serum in your routine.
Retinol (Pro-Retinol)
This Vitamin A derivative is one of the most popular anti-aging ingredients. It has exfoliating and skin renewing properties and can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It neutralizes free radicals, which are particles that attach to our skin and cause premature aging.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is another potent antioxidant which can improve the appearance of skin and hydrate. Vitamin C can also improve the appearance of skin giving you a radiant glow. As you age your skin turnover will slow down which can make your skin look more dull. Vitamin C can counteract this and make your skin look more radiant. “Vitamin C is a must have for anyone concerned about anti-aging,” says Chen.
Green Tea
Green tea is a catechin which is part of the antioxidant family. It can have hydrating and restorative qualities, particularly on sensitive skin.
Hydroxy Acids
Hydroxy acids are a synthetic form of fruits acids. When applied to skin they can exfoliate old skin cells revealing more radiant looking skin. They can make your skin more sensitive to sun so don’t apply in the mornings before you go outside.
Start In Your 40s And 50s
Anti-Wrinkle Cream
Antioxidants found in many anti-aging product formulas can help decrease the appearance of fine lines. Once those lines turn into wrinkles you may want to amp up your skin care routine. Used at a higher concentration (10 percent or higher) alpha hydroxyl or glycolic acid can make your skin appear plump. Consider asking your dermatologist for a prescription-strength product to counteract the visible appearance of wrinkles.
