For wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and invisible photodamage, Wexler recommends looking to retinol, a derivative of vitamin A that when applied topically, promotes skin renewal, brightens skin tone, clearing up hyperpigmentation, and aids in production of collagen.
Reach for a retinol or retinoid product to turn over dull skin and help increase collagen production. “Because these ingredients can be drying, I typically recommend patients start with a retinol- or micronized retinoid-based treatment to lower the possibility of irritation," Herrmann says.
Chemical peels can remove fine lines and freckles and smoothen skin, especially around the eyes and mouth. Wrinkle fillers can plump up your skin and erase lines. Microdermabrasion and microneedling erase ultrafine lines, rejuvenates your complexion, and improves skin tone and color.
First and foremost, of course, is wearing sunscreen and wearing protective clothing whenever possible. You should also be washing your face and applying a thick moisturizer with plenty of humectants and emollients twice a day to stave off skin dehydration (your skin produces less oil at this age).
If you talk to a dermatologist or any skin expert, they will tell you it is never too late to start a skincare routine. It does not matter how old you are because you will see benefits regardless of your age. The key is to ensure that you stick to your routine every day.
Generally speaking, I recommend most people start using retinol in their mid- to late-twenties, anywhere from 25-30. This is when collagen and elastin production starts to slow down, so it's the perfect time to start reaping the preventative-aging benefits retinol has to offer.
There are no set rules on how old you should be to use retinol. For anti-aging purposes, you can start preventatively in your 20s. While over-the-counter retinol can help mild acne, many people with breakouts will need a prescription.
Setting those factors aside, the general recommendation is for a facial every three to four weeks or once a month. That's how long your skin's life cycle is. After three or four weeks, your skin cells grow back. Facials help this process and assure your skin always glows.
Laser resurfacing This is the most effective procedure for tightening loose skin.
Retinol improves signs of aging, and vitamin E repairs and protects from photodamage. What it's for: Fine lines and wrinkles, breakouts. Celebrity fans: Victoria Beckham, Laura Harrier, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
Moreover, a drop in estrogen that occurs during the 50s will cause skin to look and feel drier, making lines and wrinkles look deeper and more prominent. "The 50s and 60s is also when the effects of gravity really kick in.
The biggest changes typically occur when people are in their 40s and 50s, but they can begin as early as the mid-30s and continue into old age. Even when your muscles are in top working order, they contribute to facial aging with repetitive motions that etch lines in your skin.
First, the answer is yes, retinol can make wrinkles worse, especially when you first start using it. What is happening is a drying effect, and one can get epidermal sliding from separation from the dermis.
Apply topical retinoids
Retinoids, which are topical vitamin A-based derivatives, may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing collagen production. If you use retinoids on your face, extend the treatment area to your neck and chest at night. Retinoid products are available by prescription or over the counter.
Don't Mix: Retinol with vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and AHA/BHA acids. AHA and BHA acids are exfoliating, which can dry out skin and cause further irritation if your skincare routine already includes retinol. As for benzoyl peroxide and retinol, they cancel each other out.
Who should skip retinol? “Retinols can be a beneficial addition for most skin types, but it isn't a one-size-fits-all approach,” Panzica says. Board certified dermatologist Zenovia Gabriel, MD, notes that “people with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea cannot tolerate really strong topicals like retinols.”
Using any form of retinol makes your skin more prone to sunburn. Sun damage combined with retinol burn is a recipe for redness or discoloration, inflammation, and more.
Should you use retinol under your eyes? Yes, definitely. While it is true that retinol – a form of vitamin A – is a powerful ingredient and the skin under your eyes is delicate, there's no reason why you should miss out on the amazing benefits of retinol.