Aging is a natural and beautiful part of life, but comes with changes in our skin that we may want to address. As we age, our skin goes through a variety of transformations, from a decrease in collagen to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, with the right approach to skin care, you can maintain a radiant and healthy complexion. Let's explore the changes that occur in aging skin, recommended products and ingredients, and an effective skin care routine to keep your skin looking its best.
Understanding the Changes in Aging Skin
The skin has two distinct layers; the dermis and the epidermis. The outer layer is the epidermis. It is the cellular layer that is responsible for the barrier function of skin. The dermis is the supporting structure that lays under the epidermis. This is where the blood vessels reside as well as the fibrous proteins, collagen and elastin, that provide strength and elasticity to the skin.
Changes in the epidermis that occur with age.
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Thinning Skin: As we age, skin of our epidermis becomes thinner and more fragile, making it prone to cuts and abrasions.
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Reduced Barrier Function: This comes about from a loss of lipids from the epidermis. The skin becomes more vulnerable to loss of moisture.
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Decreased Cell Turnover: The cells divide slower which leads to longer healing time for wounds and a duller complexion.
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Uneven Skin Tone: Although pigment cells decrease in number, they tend to migrate to form an uneven skin or hyperpigmentation.
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Reduced Hydration: Aging skin tends to be drier as it produces fewer natural oils. This can lead to flakiness and discomfort.
Changes in the dermis that occur with age.
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Loss of Collagen and Elasticity: Collagen, a key protein responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity, starts to deplete as we age. This results in sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles.
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Fine Lines and Wrinkles: The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is one of the most noticeable signs of aging. These can be caused by sun damage, repetitive facial expressions, and the natural aging process.
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Decreased blood flow: Blood vessels in the dermis may become less efficient, affecting circulation and nutrient delivery to the skin.
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Decreases in immune function: Immune cells in the dermis decrease making infections of the skin more common.
Smoking, pollution, sun exposure, excessive alcohol, and poor nutrition all exacerbate the aging process. In women, estrogen stimulates skin regeneration so postmenopausal decrease in estrogen is particularly related to aging skin.
Recommended Products and Ingredients for Aging Skin.
To combat the effects of aging on your skin, it's essential to choose the right products and ingredients. Here are some key components to look for:
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Carotenoids: Carotenoids are a yellow / orange pigment found in plants that are natural retinoids. These carotenoids reduce the appearance of fine lines and promote collagen production. You won't find carotenoid listed on the ingredients though as they come in the form of herbs. Some of our favorite carotenoids come from the flower Calendula.
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Hydrating Ingredients: Hydrating ingredients help the skin hold more moisture. Some of these ingredients include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, as well as many herb extracts such as fennel.
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Antioxidants: Antioxidants help protect your skin from free radicals and reduce signs of aging. Some antioxidants include vitamin C and niacinamide as well as those found in herbs such as green tea and calendula. Herbs are an important source for antioxidants.
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Sunscreen: Sun protection is crucial in preventing further damage from harmful UV rays. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
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Peptides: Peptides are fragments of proteins that can have different functions depending on their amino acid sequence. We like ones that can stimulate collagen production and help with skin firmness.
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Nutrients: The skin needs nutrients just as the body does. While it is good (and essential) to get these nutrients through the food you eat, it is also good to get them topically, through skincare products. These nutrients include antioxidants addressed earlier, but also fatty acids found in healthy fats, and phytochemicals and phytoestrogens found in plants.
Effective Skin Care Routine for Aging Skin
Now, let's put it all together into a comprehensive skin care routine for aging skin:
Morning Routine:
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Cleanser: Begin with a gentle cleanser such as Meadow Mist Cleanser to remove impurities and prepare your skin for the day.
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Toner: Apply a hydrating and pH-balancing toner such as our Face & Body Mists or Elder B Essence with added moisturizer.
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Hydrating Serum: Apply a hydrating serum like Razz Tightening Serum to provide deep moisture to the skin as well as important botanical nutrients.
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Moisturizer: Apply an antioxidant rich moisturizer with vitamin C, carotenoids and peptides such as Springtide Gold Face Cream. This will also help lock in moisture. You can also get more protection with an oil based balm such as Aspenglow Facial Balm.
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Oil Serum: An oil serum can be a nice addition to use particularly around the eyes. Parsley Face/ Eye Serum is rich in Vitamin K to help with dark circles under the eyes. It also helps lock in moisture and provides carotenoids.
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Sunscreen Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapply as needed throughout the day.
Skincare Throughout The Day:
Provide moisture as necessary by spritzing our Face & Body Mists or Elder B Essence.
Evening Skincare Routine:
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Cleanser: Cleanse your skin to remove makeup and impurities. This can be done with either Yarrow Oil Cleanser or Meadow Mist Face Cleanser.
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Moisturize: Moisturize again with a nourishing cream such as Springtide Gold Face Cream or Springtide Professional Face Cream. It is ok to use the same product for a day cream or night cream as long as it contains the proper nutrients.
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Retinol or Retinoid Product: Apply your retinol product to address fine lines and wrinkles.
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Vitamin C: You can use a vitamin C Serum at night such as our Parsley C Serum which has 10% vitamin C.
Aging is a natural part of life, and a privilege. With proper skin care, you can keep your skin healthy and maintain a radiant complexion. Focus on products and ingredients that address the specific concerns of aging skin. Remember, while skin care is important, a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, hydration, exercise and adequate sleep also play a significant role in maintaining healthy skin. Embrace the beauty of aging and take good care of your skin along the way!