According to most experts, your 20s are the decade in which to maintain and prevent, so hydration and sun protection are two absolute necessities. Hyaluronic acid is the gold standard for this, and, best of all, it works for every skin type and tone.   

Between your 30s and 40s, you’ll start to notice considerable differences in your skin, so it’s time to take corrective as well as preventative steps. Up until your mid-30s, most damage is extrinsic ageing caused by external factors, such as sun damage, but after that intrinsic ageing, such as internal glycation, starts to take effect.

 

In your 40s, the signs of ageing are more definite. Physiologically, skin becomes thinner and less elastic as collagen is systemically broken down, resulting in loss of volume.  Add to this increased dryness, dark circles, enlarged pores, crepiness around eyes and a rougher skin texture, and it means extra hydration plus hard-hitting skin-renewing ingredients are vital.  

 

In your 50s are typically the decade when huge hormonal shifts in your body cause noticeable changes. The epidermis contains precious lipids including free fatty acids, cholesterol and ceramides. They give skin that cushioned feel, but at this age, their synthesis has started to decline. To counteract this, incorporate rich moisturisers to help rebuild volume from within. It’s not just the skin on your cheeks and forehead that is susceptible to this; you may notice your lips and under-eye area become drier and thinner.  

 

At this time, lack of elasticity will be visible both in the face and the neck, due to thinner skin and weaker muscles. If you’ve been slapdash about taking your SPF right down to your décolleté, then prolonged UV exposure will also have had an effect. If you haven’t already started, use a strong active such as retinol, a wonder ingredient that helps support collagen production to improve plumpness. Hydrating serums that can be layered under other products are also ideal.  

 

A loss of elasticity can still be addressed in your 70s. Ideally, you want a formulation that helps the skin aid its naturally slowing repair process.  Active hydration, barrier repair and nourishment help to plump and provide tone and firmness for better radiance.  Look for powerful natural ingredients to help lock in moisture.  At 70-plus, avoid harsh treatments, too.