With age, our skins' collagen and elastin decrease, due to hormonal influences. Wrinkles and fine lines start to form and our skin just doesn't "bounce back" like it used to. 

This is when you know that it's time to take your skincare routine more seriously. Developing an anti-aging skincare routine isn't difficult, but it does take some time and effort to find one that works for you. 

There are steps that you can take to improve your skincare routine to make it more suitable for you're age. Whether you're taking preventative measures as a young adult or trying to age with grace as an older adult, you have options.

Read on to learn all about developing a routine that will help you stay young. 

 

Understanding Aging Skin

 

First, before you start adjusting your skincare routine, it's important that you understand why you're making these changes to your skincare routine and lifestyle. 

What is it that makes aging skin different? When should you start using an anti-aging skincare routine? 

Collagen is what keeps your skin bright, plump, and elastic. It's also what helps you heal from minor wounds. Your body produces plenty of collagen when you're a child and a teenager, but collagen production starts to slow down by the time you're in your early twenties (if not sooner).

For many young adults, this might sound scary. Don't worry. With a good skincare routine, you can still look fresh and have soft and supple skin. You won't look like a teenager, but you will be able to age with grace.

Aging is inevitable, but protecting your skin will help. 

 

Split Up Your Morning and Nighttime Routine

 

When you're trying to create an anti-aging routine, remember that your nighttime routine and your morning routine should be different. It's likely that your morning routine will be far more simple.

In the morning, focus on sunscreen, toner, vitamin C, and a good daytime moisturizer. These things will prepare you for the day and they won't be harsh or heavy on your skin. You can cleanse your skin in the morning if you like, but some people find that splashing warm (but not hot) water works better for them. 

At night, you want to focus on heavier products. Better moisturizers, stronger serums, and occlusives are great for your nighttime routine. You don't have to worry about having damp post-skincare skin when you're getting ready for bed!

 

Wear Sunscreen

 

Speaking of your daytime routine, the most important part of it is sunscreen. If you only have time to put on one skincare product, choose the one that protects your skin from harsh UV light. Do not really on SPF in your makeup for sun protection.

This is extra important if you're using other products, like retinol, that could make your skin more sensitive to light.

You may think that you don't need sunscreen if you're not going to spend an excessive amount of time outdoors in the sun. This isn't true. If you're working or driving in front of a window, some UV light can still impact your skin. 

Clinical signs of aging are heavily impacted by sun exposure.

 

Use Gentle Cleansing Products

 

Many people don't realize that their cleansing products are drying out their skin. Make a swap to something that will leave your skin feeling soft and clean instead of dry and tight.

We recommend double-cleansing. You start with a gentle oil cleanser to remove any makeup from your skin and then use a gentle cleanser, like a gel cleanser, to get rid of any other dirt or grime. 

If your skin doesn't feel soft after you clean it, it's a sign that you're not reacting well to one of the ingredients. 

 

Switch to Cool Water

 

While you're cleaning your skin (or taking a shower), it's best to stop using scalding hot water and switch to cooler temperatures.

Hot water can dry out your skin, especially the gentle skin of your face. You don't want to burn yourself or cause dryness when you're rinsing your face.

It is, however, a good idea to occasionally steam your face by using hot water. 

It may be hard to adjust to a cooler water temperature, but once you do, you'll see the difference. You may even start to enjoy a cool splash of water when you're getting ready to start your day!

 

Retinoids Are Your Friends

 

Some people find that using retinoids or retinol can help with their aging skin. These products aren't for everyone, but if you choose to use them, start with products with a low concentration of retinoid or retinol. 

This product can be harsh on sensitive skin, but you will adapt.

Retinoids stimulate the production of collagen and new blood vessels under the skin. This can improve your skin's color, texture, and "bounce." Your results won't show up right away, but within six to twelve months you'll be able to see a notable difference in fine lines. 

You can get prescription-strength retinoids from a dermatologist or esthetician if you don't think that standard storebought ones are effective enough for your needs.

 

Start Exfoliating (But Be Careful)

 

If you aren't already exfoliating, what are you waiting for? Exfoliation is great for your skin as long as you do it the right way.

When most people think of exfoliation, they think of old products with seeds or beads inside that rub up against the skin to remove a skin layer. This isn't your best option. It can disrupt your fragile moisture barrier and cause irritation.

If you're going to use a physical exfoliant, use something gentle. 

Chemical exfoliants are more popular (and more effective). You can buy chemical exfoliant products or visit a dermatologist for a professional chemical peel. Don't try to do a full chemical peel at home.

After chemical exfoliation, take extra care to protect your skin. It's best to avoid sunlight altogether during this time and avoid any harsh products. 

 

Pat or Tap

 

When you're crafting your anti-aging routine, keep in mind that it's time to start patting and tapping your products onto your skin instead of rubbing them (aside from cleansers and some oils). This is especially true when you're applying moisturizer to the soft and fragile skin underneath your eyes. 

Rubbing your skin may promote wrinkles.

You can, however, give yourself an occasional face massage. Make sure that you use an oil that's slick enough that you never pull on your skin without proper lubrication.

Face massages can redirect blood flow and potentially prevent wrinkles and fine lines. If you really want to treat yourself, visit a professional to give you a face massage. 

 

No More Harsh Washcloths

 

When it's time to dry your skin, avoid using the harsh washcloths that you've always used. They can act as physical exfoliators (which isn't a good thing).

If you must use harsh washcloths, tap and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing. 

It's a good idea to get a soft microfiber cloth to dry your skin after you cleanse it. This shouldn't irritate your skin even if you find yourself rubbing it by mistake. You can also let your skin air dry.

It's a good idea to leave your skin somewhat damp when you apply most skincare products. Always read the instructions to make sure that that's right for your specific products. 

 

Find the Right Moisturizers

 

Moisturizers are more important than ever when you're developing an anti-aging routine, and you're going to need several of them.

Start with a product that contains hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid can draw more moisture into your skin which can make the rest of your moisturizing products even more effective.

For your daytime moisturizer, use something light and non-greasy. While it's a good idea to use one that includes SPF, don't rely on that SPF for your sunscreen needs. Wear a layer of sunscreen as well.

At night, you can go a bit wild with your moisturizers. Layer serums, thick nighttime moisturizers, eye creams, and oils. On top of that, layer on an occlusive.

Occlusives are products that protect the layers of skincare products while you sleep. They tend to be ointments. Keep in mind that some people with acne-prone skin may want to do a patch test before using an occlusive over their entire face.

Using occlusives over your skincare is called "slugging" and it's a K-beauty must-do.  

 

Wear Occasional Masks

 

Speaking of K-beauty, one thing that South Korea has brought to the states is the power of disposable skincare sheet masks. These masks are soaked in serums and you let them sit on your face while they work their magic.

They're great additions to any at-home spa day. Relax in the sub while the mask is doing its hard work.

You don't have to wear masks every day, but adding one into your anti-aging skincare routine every week is a great idea.

If you don't want to use disposable masks, consider purchasing masks that come in tubes or jars. There are all different types of masks for different skincare needs.

Similar to the sheet masks, you leave them on your face for a set amount of time while you sit back and relax. You'll then rinse them off and reveal glowing and soft skin.

This is a great step after cleansing and before adding your moisturizers or serums. 

 

Beyond Skincare Products

 

Your anti-aging routine should go beyond skincare. While your skincare products are doing the "heavy lifting," there are a few things that you can do to help the process along.

Here are a few ways that you can promote youthful and healthy skin when you're not slathering on skincare products. 

 

Limit Exposure to the Sun

As we mentioned before, the sun can and will promote premature aging if you aren't protecting yourself. Do your best to limit exposure to the sun and protect your skin when you must be outside.

This isn't to say that you can't go for walks on sunny days or visit the beach. Make sure that you're using heavy-duty sunscreen and that you wear a hat to help protect your face when you're not in the water.

Reapply your sunscreen every few hours based on the instructions on the package. 

 

Eat a Healthy Diet

Your diet can impact your skin! If you're eating a diet that's heavy in sugar and processed foods, you might be causing inflammation in your skin. This inflammation will speed up the breakdown of your skin cells over time.

Alcohol can dry out your skin. 

It's okay to indulge from time to time, especially if you're also taking good care of your skin with anti-aging skincare products, but do your best to make the bulk of your diet nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables.

Get plenty of vitamins, drink water, and don't forget to eat enough protein. 

 

Exercise

Did you know that having a steady exercise routine is good for your skin?

When you exercise, you improve your blood flow to your skin. This allows nutrients to flow towards your skin and free radicals to go elsewhere. 

Research suggests that people who exercise frequently may look younger than people who don't. If you want to stay youthful, pick up some weights or go for a jog! 

 

Do You Have a Solid Anti-Aging Skincare Routine? 

 

Your skin is ready and waiting to absorb great anti-aging products. It's time to evaluate your current products and start making changes so you can develop a great anti-aging skincare routine that keeps your skin looking young and fresh for years to come.

You can't stop the aging process, but you can age with grace.

If you're looking for an anti-aging system that can help you develop your ideal routine, Theraderm has what you need. Check out our anti-aging products and start your journey toward more youthful skin today.