Beauty for...
In our teens, twenties and even in our thirties, it would seem that we could get away with anything beauty-wise.
As we approach our forties and as we progress to our fifties and subsequent decades, our skin goes through rapid changes. Estrogen (that special hormone that keeps our skin firm, elastic and moist), decreases; elastin, lipids and collagen start to deplete as well.
Uptown/Downtown gives you a few tips on how, with the right skincare products, you would be able to maintain a youthful appearance.
Sunscreen is your strongest defense
The sun gives off UVA and UVB rays that induce wrinkles, deep lines, sunspots, melanoma, spider veins and actinic keratosis. Need we say more? Wear a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection (works as a barrier against both UVA and UVB). Make sure that your sunscreen is at least an SPF30 or a PA+++. Staying indoors most of the time? Wear sunscreen. Cloudy day outside? Wear sunscreen.
We are loving: VMV Hypoallergenics Armada Sport 50+ and Belo Essentials SunExpert SPF40.
AHAs work!
AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are derivatives of plant and milk sources and are used to clear blemishes, lighten pigments and hydrate skin. More importantly, they resurface the skin and aid in faster skin cell renewal. The most famous form of AHA is glycolic acid. There are, however, more forms of AHAs in the market. There are lactic acid, citric acid and malic acid, among others. AHAs are effective against photo-aging/sun damage.
We are loving: Olay Regenerist Night Elixir and VMV Hypoallergenics Re-Everything Cream.
Choose gentler cleansers
For most older women, aging brings about less natural hydration to the face. Skin gets thinner, drier and are more susceptible to allergens. It is at this time that a milder daily cleanser be introduced, one that does not strip your skin of muchneeded moisture.
We are loving: Dove Unscented Beauty Bar and VMV Hypoallergenics Moisture-Rich Cleansers.
Exfoliate
Aging skin tends to look dull because skin cell renewal goes at a slower pace. Because of this, the outer layer of your face can be likened to a roof of dead skin that continues to thicken as time goes on. Exfoliation sloughs off the outer layers and reveals newer, fresher skin. It is NOT recommended to exfoliate too often. Some dermatologists recommend a gentle exfoliation not more than once a week. Consult your skin professional as to how often you should exfoliate and which exfoliating product would be best for you.
We are loving: ZO Exfoliating Polish.
Get “high” on hyaluronic acid
First things first, contrary to having the word “acid,” hyaluronic acid is not a harsh ingredient. According to experts, it is a wonderful and naturally occurring polysaccharide that exists in our bodies. When we are very young, we have high levels of hyaluronic acid in our system, which helps our skin look dewy, smooth and plump. As we get older, hyaluronic acid diminishes considerably. Hyaluronic acid is an incredible humectant. 1 H.A. molecule can hold 1,000 times its weight in water. H.A. in creams and serums acts like a sponge holding water and as such, plumps the skin, temporarily diminishing fine lines and wrinkles while improving overall texture.
We are loving: Estée Lauder Advanced Time Zone Wrinkle Eye Cream and L’Oréal RevitaLift Daily Volumizing Moisturizer.