Guest post by beauty blogger, Harshleen of Beauty Tidbits.
You’ve already heard it a million times – Wear sunscreen every day to stave off aging. The fact is nothing else in your skincare routine matters if you leave out this critical step. So, a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 (or more) is the one anti-wrinkle product no one should be without. However, just like your diet needs more than one healthy nutrient, your skin also needs more than just sunscreen to defy aging. Here are a few easy ways to upgrade your anti-aging routine at any age :
Amp it Up with Antioxidants
Antioxidants boost skin’s ability to fight sun damage by inhibiting free radical damage that results in the breakdown of collagen and thus aging of your skin. So, pair your daytime SPF moisturizer with an antioxidant-packed serum to reduce the extent of environmental assault on your skin.
When layered under a broad-spectrum sunscreen, antioxidants act as a safety net by absorbing and destroying the free radicals that get around your daily sunscreen application. Try Paula’s Choice Resist Super Antioxidant serum ($25.95).
Exfoliate to Rejuvenate
Exfoliation can lead to a dramatic improvement, with skin looking more clear and glowing after just a couple of weeks of daily treatment. The ingredients to look for are salicylic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid and lactic acid. Both exfoliants gently get rid of the built-up dead skin cells, help fade discolorations and improve collagen production for firmer, younger-looking skin. However, AHAs are best for dry, dull and sun-damaged skin whereas salicylic acid is especially good for oily/acne-prone skin as it unclogs pores thus reducing blackheads and breakouts.
In order to get maximum benefit, choose a leave-in exfoliating product that remains on the skin overnight instead of facial scrubs that are rinsed away quickly, dealing only with the top, superficial layer of the skin, so most of the built-up dead skin cells are beyond their reach.
Retinol to the Rescue
Keeping skin wrinkle-free is most easily done when you start early. So, whether you are in your 20s or 30s, it’s the right time to add a retinol product in your skincare routine as soon as you start to notice those fine lines.
Retinol is a proven ingredient to reverse sun damage and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and even dark spots. Always pick one that comes in a tube or pump, because retinol products degrade quickly when exposed to light and air. As retinol increases sun sensitivity, it’s best to apply retinol only before bedtime. If you are new to retinol, start with a 0.5% formula every other night and then gradually move up to once daily application. FutureDerm 0.5% Time Release Retinol ($54.95) is a great choice for all skin types. For those with sensitive or dry skin, it would be helpful to use a moisturizer over the retinol treatment to reduce any initial flaking or irritation.
Guest post by Harshleen of Beauty Tidbits.
The Paula’s Choice serum is awesome! I love your tips!
Thank you Phyrra!!
These are some really good tips, I’m going to give them a share on facebook. Do you have anything more on “Exfoliate to Rejuvenate”?
A beautiful face is the identity of your status. We will guide you to get perfect skin, especially for winter and other seasons.
I am in early 30’s & did observed started some fine lines on my face. After seeing this article, I’d try retinol skin care product to deal with the fine lines. Thanks
Great article! Can anyone share personal experience with retinol? I’ve never tried it but have some blemishes and lines that could use an overhaul!! I just always worry about products that my dry my skin out. Thanks.
Thanks for the information, I found the section on “Retinol to the Rescue” quite informative.