ANTI-AGEING WONDERS

Proven ingredients and youth-boosting hacks

The Inkey List Retinol, £9.99

Retinol is seen as the gold standard of anti-ageing for a reason – it works. This is a bargain price for a combination of two types that keep irritation and redness to a minimum. One is a slow-release formulation; the other is very gentle. I’m starting off sparingly, using just a little two nights a week, and can still see a boost in the clarity and smoothness of my skin. RH

Sanctuary Spa Sleep Relaxing Night Body Butter, £11

As someone who often sleeps restlessly, my skin looks and feels duller, drier and frankly older when I’ve been awake for most of the night. Massaging this nourishing balm into my shoulders and chest helps me tackle tense muscles before I go to bed, while the soft lavender and almond scent does its soporific thing. CB

N°7 Laboratories Resurfacing Skin Paste, £18

More of a gel than a paste, this acid-based face mask works in just 15 minutes to leave my skin looking smooth, toned and plump. The lower levels of exfoliating AHAS mean it’s great for sensitive complexions but still packs enough punch to make a noticeable difference. GD

The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-protection Essence SPF50, £17

The message has finally hit home: there’s no point putting anything else on my skin if I’m not protecting it properly from the ageing effects of the sun. I find many sunscreens quite heavy, but this is so lightweight and sheer that I can happily wear it every day. AF

Alex Steinherr for Primark Plump & Glow Serum-in-cream Moisturiser, £5

Created by a beauty expert, this ticks all the boxes for efficacy at accessible prices. A gem of an everyday moisturiser, I like its lovely lightweight but substantial texture, and that it’s fragrance-free and full of the good stuff, including antioxidants, skin soothers and hydrating hyaluronic acid. It leaves my skin looking fresh, healthy and glowing – aka youthful. EC