Skincare heroes
Turn back the clock with these expert-recommended age-fighting ingredients, says Beauty Editor Michelle Nightingale
The wrinkle reducer RETINOL
With research to back its claims, retinol, a Vitamin A derivative, really is a superstar anti-ageing ingredient. “It helps reduce ageing signs, accelerates cellular turnover and reduces the breakdown of collagen,” explains Lorraine Scrivener, Director and Skin Expert at Eden Skin Clinics (www.edenskinclinics.co.uk). It can cause irritation, so follow instructions carefully. Use with an SPF sun cream to protect and moisturise your skin.
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Indeed Labs Retinol Reface Retinol Skin Resurfacer, £19.99/30ml Ingredients work together to smoothe skin and tackle fine lines and wrinkles.
The skin plumper HYALURONIC ACID
“Applied topically, Hyaluronic Acid (HA) makes a brilliant hydrator attracting moisture, for skin that’s smoother, plumper and more youthful,” explains Lorraine. This sponge-like molecule is essential for locking in skin-plumping moisture. “Naturally occurring in our bodies, one HA molecule can hold up to a thousand times its own weight in water. As we age, natural production slows, resulting in dehydrated skin; it loses plumpness and wrinkles form.
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Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Silky Cream SPF15, £36/50ml This natural hydration activator with plant extract works to boost the skin’s HA production and improve its ability to retain water.
The skin brightener VITAMIN C
For brighter and protected skin, Vitamin C should be your must-have ingredient. “Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has protective antioxidant properties and plays a vital role in our skin’s health,” says Lorraine. “Not only does it help protect the skin against damage caused by the sun and pollution, it’s also the ultimate glow booster and evens out the skintone.” Clinique Fresh Pressed 7-Day System with Pure Vitamin C, £25 This kit includes sachets of a powder cleanser and a daily Vitamin C booster (8.5ml). Mix the cleanser with water and add the booster to your moisturiser. The kit is a bit of a faff, but it works – after a week, skin is smoother.