It’s never too late to start skincare, and we’re here with everything you need to know to embrace active ageing and a new skincare regime in your 50s.
What’s the best skincare routine in your 50s?
If you’re in your 50s you might have noticed some changes to your skin, but do you know what’s really going on underneath the surface or what the best skincare routine for your 50s is? As we enter our 50s, hormonal shifts, reduced collagen production and slower skin cell production can lead to increased dryness, fine lines and a loss of elasticity. But the good news is that there’s plenty you can do to give your skin a boost and maintain a radiant and healthy complexion…
How to rejuvenate mature skin
There are lots of ways to power up your skincare routine in your 50s and the first place to start is with hydration. Look for products packed with skin hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Protinol™, ceramides and glycerin. These moisture masters will help your skin retain moisture while reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier. It’s probably a good time to mention that hydration comes from within, so make sure you’re enjoying a good old-fashioned glass of water regularly too.
Caring cleansing
Cleansing is the first step in any skincare routine, but what’s the best way to cleanse skin when you’re in your 50s? Be kind to your skin by choosing gentle oil or cream-based cleansers that will clean without stripping skin of its natural oils and moisture. Remember to cleanse morning and night to remove all traces of make-up and impurities and make sure that any serums and creams are being applied to clean skin to maximise their efficacy.
Gentle exfoliation
Gone are the days of abrasive, grainy scrubs (thank goodness!). While exfoliation is important in your 50s, as it promotes cell regeneration and helps to boost radiance, you don’t want to cause irritation. Think less physical exfoliants like ground walnut, and more chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs which breakdown the top layer of skin to help remove dead skin cells, clever right?
Serum power
You’ve heard the hype but have you found the best serum for your skin now you’re in your 50s? With so many to choose from it can be overwhelming, so let’s break it down. Serums are great for more mature skin as they penetrate further than your moisturiser to treat your skin at a deeper level. Look for antioxidants, biopolymers like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B3 (aka niacinamide), and collagen boosters like retinol, Protinol™ or arginine. And if that all seems like hard work, remember lots of serums will say which age range they are best suited to, our Platinum over 50s collection being a perfect example.
Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise
We don’t want to sound like a broken record, but the right moisturiser for your skin can be the key to skincare after 50. You’re looking for formulas that are rich and nourishing enough to lock in moisture and protect your skin barrier, but not so thick that they sit on top of your skin and don’t absorb. You’ll probably want to invest in a day cream and a night cream as day creams tend to have a slightly lighter formula, so your make-up goes on smoothly, while night creams can be a little thicker as your skin needs the extra nourishment to regenerate overnight. And before we forget… make sure you let your neck and décolletage in on the action too – they’ll thank you later.
You’ll also want to pay special attention to your eyes as the skin in this area is more delicate and prone to dryness. There are lots of eye creams to choose from, and as with your moisturiser you want to find the Goldilocks for your skin – not too thick, but just right!
SPF every day
Sun protection is a non-negotiable in skincare whatever your age as UV rays can accelerate the breakdown of collagen, resulting in fine lines and age spots. In other words, your SPF should be as habitual as brushing your teeth. Choose broad-spectrum protection with SPF20 or above (yes even when it’s not sunny). Want to streamline your regime? Lots of day creams contain SPF so opt for one that suits you. That’s one less thing to think about.
Skincare Lifestyle
We’ve already mentioned the importance of water, but did you know that your skin is an organ that needs nurturing? As well as staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E, getting enough sleep, and managing your stress levels can all have a positive impact on your skin health. Regular exercise also encourages good circulation which can help you to nourish your skin cells from within. So get those trainers on and go for a walk, run, cycle – your glowing complexion is just one of the perks of moving more.
Now you know all about the best skincare products, let’s explore the best skin skincare routine for your 50s…
Morning skincare routine
- Cleanse: Start your day with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove any impurities. Remember to look for creamy or oil-based formulas.
- Exfoliate: use your exfoliating treatment once or twice a week to help keep your skin smooth and glowing.
- Treat: It’s time for your serum. Make sure you give your skin a chance to absorb all the goodness before you apply your next product.
- Eyes: Use your ring finger to gently dot your eye cream along your brow bone and eye socket – don’t go too close to the eye as this can cause irritation.
- Day Cream: Apply generously, remembering to cover the neck and décolletage, using an upwards massaging motion to stimulate your skin.
- SPF: If your day cream doesn’t contain SPF, or if you’re looking for some extra protection, finish your morning routine with this non-negotiable.
Evening skincare routine
- Cleanse: Use the same cleanser from your morning routine to remove any make-up, pollution and dirt from the day.
- Treat: Then apply your serum and remember to let it fully absorb before you apply your next product.
- Eyes: Apply your eye cream just as you did in the morning.
- Night Cream: Apply generously, remembering to cover the neck and décolletage, using an upwards massaging motion to stimulate your skin.
There you have it, everything you need to look after your skin in your 50s and keep it looking its best for decades to come.