Cresting The Hill

INTRO

MIDLIFE SKIN RENEWAL: WHAT’S WORTH TRYING?

When we reach midlife, we often develop a new appreciation for taking care of ourselves. Unfortunately, this stage of our life also often arrives with a few skin changes that many of us might not have expected.

Maybe lines are appearing in new places. Perhaps our skin feels drier. Even our makeup might sit differently. These shifts can come as a surprise and prompt us to wonder what we can do to keep our skin looking healthy.

In this guide, I aim to explore midlife skin renewal in a straightforward and honest manner, and to provide you with clear information about what might help support your skin and what is worth trying at this stage of your life. Hopefully, it will give you food for thought.

WHY YOUR SKIN CHANGES IN MIDLIFE

You’ve probably noticed this already, but our skin in midlife behaves a lot differently than it did in our 20s and 30s, and many women notice changes after they have reached the age of 40. These changes can include dryness, uneven tone, new lines, and changes in texture. You may also notice shifts related to hormonal changes. This can lead the skin to feel more sensitive or exhibit new pigmentation.

These changes are a natural part of the aging process and develop slowly over time. They also connect deeply to what is happening inside the body.

THE ROLE OF HORMONES IN SKIN AGEING

Midlife often brings with it fluctuating hormones. Oestrogen plays a significant role in maintaining skin firmness and hydration. However, when levels change, the skin responds accordingly. Some people notice their skin feels less plump. Others see new fine lines or patches of dryness. Regardless of how it manifests, hormonal skin changes in midlife affect most people in some way.

WHAT HAPPENS TO COLLAGEN, TEXTURE, AND ELASTICITY?

As you age, your collagen levels naturally decrease, which affects its firmness and elasticity. You may notice a softer jawline or slight sagging, and you may also feel a shift in your skin texture. These changes develop gradually.

A combination of your lifestyle, exposure to the sun, and stress can all influence your collagen levels. However, the more we understand collagen, the easier it becomes to support it. That is why choosing collagen-boosting skincare can make a difference in how your skin feels on a day-to-day basis.

WHAT ACTUALLY WORKS FOR MIDLIFE SKIN RENEWAL?

To achieve midlife skin renewal, it's advisable to focus on simple steps. To begin with, it's beneficial to select products that promote overall skin health rather than focusing on quick fixes.

Products, along with lifestyle habits, can all play a role, as can treatments. One option for the latter that people are exploring is advanced skin rejuvenation treatments at Contour Clinics. These treatments aim to refresh the skin's texture and enhance its collagen production levels. They are non-invasive and suitable for many people who prefer a gentle approach.

INGREDIENTS DERMATOLOGISTS RECOMMEND FOR MATURE SKIN

Mature skin enjoys ingredients that hydrate, smooth, and renew. That is why many people choose products that contain hyaluronic acid, as it has the ability to retain moisture.

Vitamin C also supports brightness and evens out tone, while retinol or retinal can assist with skin texture after the age of 40. If you intend to use the latter, just make sure it feels comfortable on your skin. Peptides are another ingredient that mature skin enjoys. They help to facilitate firmness and softness in your skin.

Choosing the best ingredients for ageing skin helps your routine feel more effective. Indeed, skincare routines do not actually need that many steps. Most people get great results from a few targeted products used consistently.

SIMPLE DAILY HABITS THAT SUPPORT SKIN RENEWAL

Aside from products and treatments, there are a few other things you can do to support your skin renewal.

Drinking enough water is essential as it helps to maintain your natural hydration levels. Women should aim for about 2 litres a day, which equates to about 8 cups. Additionally, it is essential to get good sleep. When you do so, your body works to repair damaged cells, maintain your skin’s elasticity, and keep your complexion healthy.

Whenever you are out, always wear a hat and good-quality sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage. This is especially important as it is one of the biggest contributors to premature ageing. It is also worth taking a few minutes each day for a facial massage, as this can help improve circulation and encourage a healthy glow.

Another simple daily habit you can adopt is maintaining a healthy diet. Cut out foods that are high in sugar and high-glycemic foods, as well as processed/fried foods, as they can have a negative impact on your skin. Instead, opt for foods rich in antioxidants to support your skin health. This includes berries, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, all of which nourish the body from within. Consuming foods with Omega-3 fatty acids is also a good idea, as they improve hydration and softness.

Lastly, try to keep a handle on your stress levels. Unfortunately, stress can manifest on your skin in the form of flare-ups or dullness. To reduce your levels of it, try going for a morning or evening walk, meditating or practising breathing exercises. They can help your skin settle.