We have all heard the phrase – aging like a fine wine. But the difference between a “wine” and a “fine wine” is how it is preserved and stored properly to age well. This goes for our skin as well. Youthful, radiant skin is a dream that we all have, no matter how old we get. And the quest for this youthful skin can often leave us confused as we don’t know what to do, what products to use and what ingredients can help us.
With this in mind, we reached out to dermatologist and cosmetologist, Dr. Chandni Jain Gupta, to simplify anti-ageing skincare for us, and here’s her Expert Guide on how to keep signs of aging at bay.
Understand why skin aging happens
First and foremost, before looking for solutions, it is best to understand how and why our skin is aging. Here two most important factors you should look for:
Intrinsic Aging: This is the natural aging process, influenced by internal physiological factors. This is characterized by a decrease in collagen and elastin production, leading to thinner and less elastic skin. Please note that this is inevitable.
Extrinsic Aging: Environmental factors such as sun exposure, pollution, and lifestyle choices that accelerate the aging process. As this is related to external factors, and can be avoided or delayed, and even reversed in some cases.
7 Essential Components of an Anti-Aging Skincare Routine
If you wish to keep early signs of aging at bay, here are some essential parts of skincare regime that I would suggest you must not skip:
1. Cleansing: The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. A gentle cleanser removes dirt, makeup, and impurities, setting the stage for effective treatment. Make sure you opt for non-stripping formulas to maintain skin’s natural oils. Avoid cleansers with sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances and alcohol in them.
2. Exfoliation: Exfoliating gets rid of dead skin cells and helps in cell turnover, which is key for glowing skin. You can use physical exfoliants, like scrubs, and chemical ones, like AHAs (glycolic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid). Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much exfoliation can cause irritation.
3. Antioxidants: Adding antioxidants into your skincare routine can protect the skin from oxidative stress. Vitamin C is the most effective one in neutralizing free radicals and brightening the complexion. Pairing it with Vitamin E and ferulic acid will help you get best results and keep signs of aging far away.
4. Retinoids: Now this is an ingredient you must have heard and read about often in recent skincare conversations. Retinoids, including retinol and prescription tretinoin, are the “gold standard” in anti-aging. They promote collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce fine lines. So look for skincare products with retinoids in them. Best to start with lower concentrations to allow your skin to adjust.
5. Moisturizing: What can be the best way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles? Simple, help your skin maintain its elasticity. Here hydration, through moisturizer, is the key. Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture, and ceramides, which help restore the skin barrier.
6. Sunscreen: Daily application of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential. UV radiation accelerates skin aging, and contributes to hyperpigmentation and loss of elasticity. Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type and wear it every day. And yes, even on cloudy days! Never skip sunscreen.
7. Eye Cream: When we talk of anti-aging skincare, many overlook the importance of this. The skin around your eyes is most delicate and it can easily show the early signs of aging. An eye cream with peptides, caffeine, or hyaluronic acid can help address puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
You might also like to read: How to choose your skin serums, creams and oils we tell you all
Lifestyle and dietary factors to keep in mind
Skincare products are crucial, but if you truly wish to delay the signs of skin aging, a holistic approach is essential. Here are 3 important things I always share for everyone to keep in mind:
- Healthy Diet: What you eat is crucial for your body and skin. Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids supports skin health from within. Also, foods high in antioxidants can help combat oxidative stress.
- Hydration: Remember how I spoke about hydration earlier, well that goes both externally and internally. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and maintain its elasticity.
- Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Both can accelerate skin aging and contribute to premature wrinkles.
Professional Anti-Aging Treatments
For more advanced anti-aging treatments, here are some professional options you can consider with expert guidance:
- Chemical Peels: These treatments exfoliate the skin, improving texture and reducing fine lines.
- Micro-needling: This procedure stimulates collagen production by creating micro-injuries in the skin.
- Laser Treatments: Lasers can address pigmentation, fine lines, and overall skin texture.
It’s all about Personalization
Finally, the most effective anti-aging routine is the one that’s tailored to individual skin types and concerns. Every person, their lifestyle and their genetics are different, and the same goes for the solutions and remedies that they want and that would work for them. Consult a dermatologist or skin care professional, who can help you develop a personalized regimen and address specific issues.
This guide can help you build a better skincare routine to keep signs of aging away from your skin as long as possible. Right routine with the right ingredients can help you ace the anti-aging game.
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Meet our Guest Expert: Dr. Chandni Jain Gupta is a renowned Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Venereologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon. She is the Founder of Elantis Aesthetics in Delhi.