Bedtime, gin consumption, mattress preferences – things change as we get older. The same goes for our skin. According to leading dermatologists, your skin can start to decrease in collagen production from as young as 25, so it’s never too early to invest time (and sometimes dollar) in a good skincare regime. Of course, finding out which routine works for you can vary, based on your age and your skin type. Good news, we’ve got you covered – this is a handy guide on what to introduce to your regime throughout the years.
By Danielle Petch
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1 In your 20s
First things first, SPF should be a daily staple, no excuses. Sun damage is the number one culprit of premature ageing. Introducing a chemical exfoliant into your regime is a good idea too – this improves the surface of the skin by stripping away dead skin cells to reveal fresh skin below. Look for ones like this, containing AHAs, BHAs and PHAs (they’re acids that help to dissolve dead skin cells). Microdermabrasion will help too, by vacuuming dead skin (which can leave skin looking dull). Last up, stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet (rosé and Dominos optional).
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2 In your 30s
Time to introduce products rich in antioxidants (think vitamins C and E). These protect your skin from cell-damaging free radicals – molecules that can contribute to premature ageing. In your 30s, collagen and cell turnover can slow right down, so introducing a retinol will help to kick start collagen production (keeps skin looking plumped up). Lastly, we love a good laughter line, but if you don’t, radiofrequency can help to target fine lines, wrinkles or pigmentation by encouraging collagen and elastin to develop in the skin.
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3 In your 40s
When life begins, they say, but… also when your skin starts going through some pretty significant changes. You may well notice that your favourite products of 10 years ago are no longer cutting it. Try opting for a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Introduce a night cream rich in retinol and restorative peptides (they help to keep skin firm). As the skin loses its ability to naturally produce collagen, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (also known as the non-surgical face lift) will help to tighten and ‘lift’ skin around the face and neck.
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4 In your 50s
You may notice your skin getting a little drier in texture by the time your 60s swing around. Coarser, and more sensitive too (this is due to moisture loss and reduced integrity of the skin barrier). Try layering a lightweight hydrating serum under your SPF, and apply a hyaluronic acid-based moisturiser before bed. Side note – the hairs in your brows may be sparser now, and redefining the shape can be seriously transformative. Light strokes with a pencil will help to create shape where it may now be lacking, while microblading is a slightly more extreme version of bringing back the brows.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What skincare routine should you follow in your 20s?
Use SPF daily to protect against sun damage and try a chemical exfoliant with AHAs, BHAs or PHAs to remove dead skin cells. Microdermabrasion can refresh your complexion, and keeping hydrated with a balanced diet supports healthy skin. Starting good habits early helps maintain youthful skin longer.
Which products should you add to your skincare in your 30s?
Add products rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E to protect your skin, and use retinol to boost collagen. Radiofrequency treatments can help with fine lines and hyperpigmentation by encouraging collagen and elastin production. As collagen slows down, these steps support firmer, radiant skin.
How does your skin change in your 40s?
Skin can become drier and may lose firmness as natural collagen production decreases. Use a gentle cleanser to avoid stripping oils and add a night cream with retinol and peptides for firmness. High Intensity Focused Ultrasound can tighten and lift the face and neck.
What should you do for drier or more sensitive skin in your 50s?
Layer a lightweight hydrating serum under your SPF and use a hyaluronic acid-based moisturiser at night. Skin often feels drier and more sensitive due to moisture loss and a weaker skin barrier with age. Redefining sparse brows with pencil or microblading can give a refreshed appearance.
How can you book beauty treatments online easily?
You can book beauty treatments online with Treatwell at your favourite salons. The booking process is simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover and reserve amazing salons in your area in just a few clicks.