STOP THE CLOCK!
The five magical ingredients to help you stay beautiful longer
When it comes to tackling ageing skin efficiently, you’ll need to get your hands on some specific ingredients. Anything that packs a less-than-powerful punch just isn’t good enough. We discuss five power players to help you look and feel a whole lot younger.
PEPTIDES
In a nutshell, peptides are chains of amino acids that work to create protein within the skin. They have the ability to penetrate the top layer of the skin and send “signals” to your cells to tell them how to function, for example, to stimulate collagen production for smoother, more youthful skin. Not only a wonder ingredient for mature skin, peptides also enhance wound and cell repair to help those
with troublesome skin. TRY Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster $71 With a powerful blend of amino acids and eight peptides, this serum hydrates, replenishes and soothes to help fight the signs of ageing. Apply morning and night.
SUNSCREEN
As far as anti-ageing products go, sunscreen is known as the number-one preventer. Wearing it daily will help block UV rays from penetrating the skin, minimising the risk of premature wrinkles, skin sagging and blotchy pigmentation. It’ll also help to prevent the destruction of collagen and elastin, which means smoother, plumper skin for years to come. Aim to wear a broad-spectrum variety, as these will protect the skin from both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays. Don’t scrimp on your application – you need at least a teaspoon just for your face. TRY Natio Daily Defence Face Moisturiser SPF50 $17.95 This is a vitamin-rich moisturiser that helps hydrate, smooth and protect delicate facial skin from UVA and UVB rays.
3 RETINOL
Retinol is the do-it-all ingredient of the skincare world. It is a derivative of vitamin A that treats fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, dullness and loss of firmness. It works by speeding up cell turnover, helping sweep away dead cells, while boosting collagen and elastin production. Retinol is potent, so first build up with a small amount every two days, then daily. Use at night and apply sunscreen during the day as skin may be more sun-sensitive. TRY Philosophy Help Me Retinol Night
Treatment $65 with time-release delivery system.
4 ANTIOXIDANTS
Antioxidants have the unique ability to prevent environmental elements from ruining your skin. They turn nasty free radicals into harmless compounds, preventing them from destroying collagen and elastin. This means less wrinkles, pigmentation and skin sagging. As a bonus, antioxidants
including vitamin C, acai, green tea and pomegranate help stimulate cell repair and collagen production.
TRY Blessed By Nature Antioxidant Soothing Eye Serum $17.99
This anti-ageing serum is enriched with sunflower, aloe, jojoba, althaea and Kakadu plum.
5 ALPHA-HYDROXY ACIDS
If you have dull skin and crave radiance, add alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAS) into your skincare routine. They gently exfoliate the skin by dissolving dead skin cells, leaving behind soft, refreshed skin, without the need for harsh abrasives. Other than added radiance, less fine lines and faded pigmentation, AHAS allow other topically applied ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin. The key is to not overuse them, as they can weaken your skin’s natural protective barrier. Start with a glycolic-based cleanser, then move onto peels as your skin builds up its tolerance. TRY The Elucent
Anti-ageing Serum $49.99 It combines 16 per cent AHAS with vitamin B3, E and B5, and is a
good alternative ternative to a peel at a clinic.