Fabulous skin forever
The best beauty routine for your 40s and beyond
40+
It’s now when the signs of ageing start to become more obvious – in fact, it almost feels like fine lines appear overnight. Leading skincare expert Sarah Chapman says, ’Levels of collagen, which keep skin firm, and elastin, which keeps skin bouncing back, start to deplete, resulting in visible wrinkles.’
But all hope is not lost! If you haven’t used line-softening wonder product retinol before, now’s the time to start. Begin with a low dose, two days on, two days off, and use it at night, wearing an SPF in the day, because skin will be more sensitive. This is also the decade that skin starts to appear thinner and its naturally protective barrier, lipids, are not as pronounced, which can lead to dehydration. Elemis co-founder Noella Gabriel recommends using products that support skin’s natural collagen, increase elastin production and replenish lost moisture. It’s likely at this stage in your life you are always pushed for time and juggling commitments. This, too, can take its toll on your skin, making it appear dull and jaded. Up your exfoliation to three times a week, using an alpha-hydroxy acid peel to encourage cell turnover and reveal a brighter complexion.
It’s very likely this decade will bring the biggest skin upheaval since your teenage years – thanks to seismic hormonal shifts that can cause all sorts of side effects. ‘You lose a third of your collagen within the first five years of the menopause,’ reveals Sarah, ‘and with it, your skin’s bounceback, moisture and glow.’ There is also a reduction in the communication between the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, and the dermis – the layer of living tissue below the epidermis – meaning skin has less structure and strength. Honestly speaking, only surgery will completely iron out deep lines and wrinkles. But the good news is, there are numerous clever firming and sculpting products to boost your skin. Look for ingredients including plant stem cells that will help to combat loss of density. If your skin begins to feel parched, invest in an emollient-rich moisturiser or product containing hyaluronic acid – which holds 1,000 times its weight in water – and will instantly plump your skin, reduce
dryness and restore a youthful luminosity.
The secret to amazing skin over 60 is simple – learn how to massage your face and neck. It can help counteract your skin losing elasticity, thinning and even reduce weak muscle tone. You don’t have to use any expensive creams or oils, just use some entry-level products with this simple technique. Starting from your décolletage, use your lotion of choice and smooth it on to your skin in long, diagonal strokes upwards to tone and lift. Continue upwards until you reach your hairline. Practised every day, you’ll notice positive results in a couple of weeks. If hyperpigmentation – brown patches, marks or splotches – are your bugbear, you can now fade and prevent them by wearing a SPF all year round. Team with a vitamin C serum, which is a powerful antioxidant to help prevent uneven skin tone. If vertical lip lines, often triggered by smoking and UV exposure, are causing you concern, look for a topical ‘filler’ to smooth, hydrate and plump the area.