Ageing isn’t something to fear – it’s something to honour. And with a little care, love and the right skincare routine, we can ensure our skin continues to reflect the beauty of our journey looking its best, no matter how many years have passed.
There’s no denying the changes in your skin as you age can feel like a bit of a wild ride, with your complexion doing things it never has before. Hydration, or lack thereof, tends to be a key concern from menopause onwards, as the decrease in oestrogen production can result in dryness and a rough texture. Structural changes – such as collagen and elastin loss – also occur, which causes your skin to become thinner and more fragile. Skin cells begin to turn over more slowly and dullness creeps in.
There are myriad products on the market that can help. For example, serums containing hyaluronic acid can deliver a moisture boost, mild exfoliants like glycolic acid works to remove dead skin cells and boost radiance, while retinol helps improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
But overloading your routine with too many heavy-hitting ingredients at once can also destabilise your skin. Instead, simplifying your skincare, using the right products and focusing on balance can make a big difference.
Love the skin you’re in
Your skin changes in different life stages, so your product choices will too! For a well-rounded daily routine, reach for skincare specifically formulated for mature skin such as the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect range.
Morning
After applying your serums, follow up with L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Golden Age Rosy Day Cream, $44.99. It gently stimulates the top layer of your skin to help restore its natural rosy glow. If you prefer your day cream with added sun protection, try L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Golden Age SPF 15 Day Cream, $44.99.
Apply your day cream with small, circular motions for better absorption.
Top tip
Night
Night-time is critical for skin repair after daily exposure to UV, pollution and other environmental stressors. Enriched with fortifying neo-calcium to encourage the repair of your skin’s protective barrier while you sleep, L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Golden Age Night Cream, $44.99, provides intense nourishment and helps your skin gradually regain density.
Anytime
To instantly awaken tired eyes and tackle dark circles, reach for a targeted cream, like L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Golden Age Radiant Care Eye Cream, $44.99. For extra dull or saggy skin, call in the big guns with L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Golden Age Peony Serum, $59.99. The radiance-boosting, deeply hydrating serum leaves dull skin no chance and it’s non-greasy finish makes it perfect to layer with your night or day cream.
Beauty from within
As skin matures, its needs change and the right nutrients become even more crucial to nourish your skin from the inside out. Focus on these key elements…
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s are essential for mature skin, helping to maintain elasticity, reduce inflammation, and keep skin plump and hydrated.
Where to find them: Fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds and walnuts.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is critical for collagen production, which helps combat the natural decline in skin firmness as we age. It also brightens skin and protects against environmental damage, reducing
the appearance of age spots and dullness.
Where to find it: Citrus fruits, strawberries, capsicums and broccoli.
Vitamin E
As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin E helps to defend against UV damage and free radicals, while supporting moisture retention.
Where to find it: Almonds, sunflower seeds, avocados and spinach.
Protein
Protein provides the building blocks for collagen and elastin, which keep the skin firm and resilient. Adequate protein intake supports skin healing and repair, both of which slow down as we age.
Where to find it: Lean meats, fish, eggs, tofu and Greek yoghurt.
Zinc
Zinc plays a key role in skin repair, barrier function and inflammation control. It can help with mature skin issues such as thinning skin, delayed healing and age-related blemishes.
Where to find it: Shellfish (especially oysters), pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and lentils.
Water
Hydration is essential for skin to maintain moisture and prevent dryness. Well-hydrated skin appears plumper and more youthful, giving skin a healthy glow.
Where to find it: Stay well hydrated throughout the day, and incorporate water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon and citrus fruits.