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.
Thanks for a very good overview of what to actually care about in an industry that is bursting with BS! I've always had terrible skin, with huge acne problems throughout my life. In my 20s I was treated with Accutane which calmed it down a lot, but it came back later in life, although not as bad. I always thought I couldn't do anything about it and didn't really bothered with any skincare attempts because of this. But eventually a lady in my church, who worked for a skincare company, offered to help. I tried some of her products and they actually made a difference. When I moved to Ireland I couldn't get these products anymore and I also got an interest in finding more environment-friendly products (less plastic) and to simplify my routine if possible.
ReplyDeleteInterestingly, and in line with what you say, simply moving to Ireland changed everything. With the same products, my skin suddenly became MUCH better. I believe this has to do with both reduced stress and a milder climate with higher air humidity. Now after many ifs and buts, at almost 52, I feel my skin has never been better! I've tried a few different products and now only use a cleanser for oily skin, an exfoliant, a hydration bar (with hydrating and anti-inflammatory oils) and on certain days a cream that smoothens the pores. Since in the last few years I've changed my lifestyle a lot, who knows what really makes the difference! As I age I probably will need to change something but for now I'm very pleased.
Hi Susanne - that was really interesting - especially about how the change of climate made such a difference. I feel like the hot, dry weather here in Australia ages our skin much more quickly. I see the "English rose" complexions on midlife women from cooler climates and they definitely have less skin damage and fewer wrinkles.
DeleteI'm a big fan of sun protection and moisturizer - and have been for many years. Also not drinking and not smoking has helped keep my skin tone clearer. It's a bit like fighting a losing battle with age, but every little bit helps when we make good choices that work for our particular skin types - and I'm relieved to not be battling pimples anymore!