Have you ever wondered what is the secret to flawless skin? Have you tried a range of skincare products but nothing seems to work? Do you get confused with the plethora of products available in the market? Then this is the perfect guide for you. Your skin is the largest organ of your body and it should be taken care of well. Skincare is a methodical routine followed on a daily basis to revive your skin health. We spend too much time making sure that our skin looks great only by using makeup. The aim is to achieve skin that not only looks great but also feels healthy. In addition to eating the right food, drinking a lot of fluids, exercising and getting sufficient sleep, you must feed your skin with the correct age appropriate skincare supplements. 

What is skincare and why is it important to follow a skincare routine? 

Skincare consists of a group of practices performed regularly to achieve better skin health, target skin concerns and improve overall appearance of the skin. The goal of any skincare routine is to give you the essential building blocks to make sure your skin is functioning healthy and at its best. Another goal is that it should be helping any skin issues that may pop up from time to time at different stages of your life such as preventing breakouts, healing hyperpigmentation, soothing inflammations and complement overall skin conditions that are changing daily.

 With the endless list of suggestions spread across the internet and a wide range of products hitting the market every now and then, it is easy to get confused in choosing the right skincare routine. While good quality products can help you improve the condition of your skin, using them without a routine will provide unsatisfactory results. Skincare routines are an opportunity to take the right care of skin, hence it is important to have a strong foundation laid down for the following reasons: 

1. Our skin is constantly changing: We lose skin cells daily. The outer layer of cells make way for newer cells. This means that if your skin looks healthy today, it does not promise vibrance for tomorrow. It can instantly look dull and tired as your skin cells get ready to shed and fall off. Maintaining a constant skincare routine will help maintain your skin’s radiance so you can look your best always.
2. Helps to maintain and strengthen our skin barrier: This is the outermost layer of our skin. Compromising the barrier can cause dryness, bacteria build up, inflammation, premature ageing etc. A routine will help to retain moisture, protect and deliver a source of hydration and keep the barrier functioning strong and healthy. 
3. Consistency is key: You can get fantastic results from a consistent skincare regimen. It takes at least 30 to 45 days of consistent use to see noticeable results.
4. Skin turnover reduces: This is the rate at which new skin cells are produced. This reduces over time, causing dullness and other skin conditions. Hence it is important to modify your skin routine as you age. 

What are some skincare tips you can follow regardless of age?

There are a few skincare products and ingredients that are a “must have” for all skin types. 

Cleanse: The first step is to get rid of dirt, residue and environmental pollutants that deposit on the surface of the skin. Use gentle circular motions for at least 2 minutes to break down any dirt particles or makeup.

Tone: To get truly radiant skin the key is hydration. Each layer of our skin needs water. Products like toners and hydrators are designed to increase the water content. Most toners are water based with active ingredients such as humectants that attract water molecules from their surroundings. 

Moisturise: The main responsibility is to reduce water loss by forming a layer over the skin surface. It reduces the risk of evaporating existing moisture throughout the day.

Sunscreen: It fights premature ageing, fine line and wrinkles, upon exposure to the sun. Moreover, ultraviolet light directly attacks the Collagen and essential proteins that are responsible to make the skin firm and bouncy. 

What are some important, age specific skincare tips to follow?

As we age, our skin develops unique, age specific requirements. Simply applying all the possible ingredients and expecting results will only lead to dismay. Hence, we have put together the key concern areas and solutions to guide you through regardless of your age.

SKINCARE IN YOUR TEEN YEARS TO EARLY ADULT YEARS: 

The layers of the skin consist of the epidermis outer layer, visible to the eye and dermis, the inner layer. The outer layer can have a lot of dead skin cells. A teenager experiences a high level of turnover. The dermis is composed of proteins that give youth and plumpness to the skin. However, even though there are high levels present in your body the major concern teens experience is pimples, breakouts and acne that is caused mainly due to puberty. 

Major Concern: Acne, oily skin and inflammation (redness)

Causes:

• Increase in hormone levels: Our skin consists of hair follicles that bring out the sebum produced in our sebaceous glands. When there is an overproduction of sebum along with build up of dead skin cells and dirt, your pores can get clogged which can then trigger an inflammatory response. Bacteria development in these areas can cause acne.
• Puberty: During this stage hormones stimulate glands to make more sebum and they often become overactive and make too much sebum, leading to clogging of the pores with excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria.
• Stress: It can cause increased inflammation in the body which can make the pimples you already have bigger and take longer to go away.
• Genetics: If several of your family members have acne skin there is a high chance you can have it as well. Your genetics determine your skin type & production of sebum. 

Skincare tips and products, you should look out for:

• Due to the excess sebum build up and high skin cell turnover you should opt for foaming cleansers, especially if you have oily skin. Try looking for Salicylic Acid as it helps to unclog the pores. We recommend Thyme Organic Oil Control Face Wash as the Salicylic Acid along with Willow Bark, Neem and Tea Tree extract that acts as an antibacterial that stops acne.

• Use non – comedogenic products. That means they are formulated in such a way to avoid clogging in the pores. Ilana Organics All Time Moisturiser consists of Grapeseed known for treating acne, tightening skin, diminishing dark, intensely hydrating, restoring collagen and fighting aging without clogging the pores.

                                                  

• You do not need to incorporate physical exfoliants or scrubs as the skin cell production is extremely high. This leads to natural shedding of dead cells that are replaced with fresher new ones.
• Incorporate sunscreen in your daytime routine to protect your skin from UV damage. The earlier you start this step the better your skin will be in the future as sun damage can add a few extra years to your skin.

SKINCARE IN YOUR MID 20'S AND 30'S: 

In your 20s our bodies can bounce back from acne scars, inflammations or any concern quickly as the skin heals at a rapid rate. You see a slight change while you approach your 30s by noticing a few signs of ageing. The main aim in your 30s is to upkeep the routine you already follow in your 20s and adding a few more ingredients to maintain the collagen & elastin production in your body.

Major Concerns: Initial signs of ageing, dull and tired looking skin 

Causes: 

• Exposure to UV rays: It is one thing that will take the longest time for the skin to recover from. It kills the skin cells and damages the production of collagen and elastin, that help to make your skin plump and youthful.
• Lifestyle: Everything starts from within. Not eating the right foods and not getting enough sleep can be major contributors. Our bodies are in recovery mode from 11pm to 2am. This is the time your skin can rejuvenate itself.
• Pollution: Free radicals are surrounding us in the environment. It is responsible for breaking down our skin's barriers that result in unflattering skin blemishes, wrinkles, fine line and dark spots. 

Skincare tips and products, you should look out for: 

• Using ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic acid found in Neemli Naturals Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin C Brightening Serum is light non-greasy gel-like age-defying daily use vitamin C serum that helps your skin retain moisture.

• Protect your skin from the free radicals by layering your products to battle these at night. Using AHAs and BHAs will help fight these pollutants. We recommend Martiderm Night Renew Ampoules containing AHAs that exfoliate, regenerate and renew the skin.

• You can also use Peptides that help in plumping up the skin, smoothening fine lines and restoring a healthy skin barrier, promoting overall skin regeneration. They help to rejuvenate the skin by penetrating from the top layer of the skin and send ‘signals’ to boost collagen and elastin when you need it.The Retinol and Peptide Serum by Neemli Naturals is the perfect anti-aging solution to start with.

• When you hit your mid 20s everything starts to slow down, that is when you need you help boost your skin's productions things such as facial massages help stimulate blood circulation in the skin. So that your skin can better absorb these products and can produce its own Collagen.
• Use natural makeup products like CC creams instead of foundation. These are light weight products that can give coverage, colour correcting properties and antioxidants. We recommend the Coccoon Protective Radiance Cream With BB+ And Kakadu Plum.  

SKINCARE IN YOUR MID 40s and 50s:

Every year as you age so does your skin. In your 40s and as you approach your 50s your skin loses its elasticity. This is one of the main concerns. At this stage it’s time to focus on promoting collagen production. Your skin becomes more sensitive and delicate, hence you should induce your routine with antioxidants, SFP and retinoids. 

Major Concern: Sagging, dryness, pigmentation, premature ageing

Causes: 

• Menopause: Changing estrogen levels may result in drier skin. The loss of Collagen can lead to sagging skin along the jaw and around the eyes. The loss of fat combined with hormonal changes and dryness can be major contributing factors. 
• Facial expressions: Repetition of facial movements and expression over the years develop into facial lines. As the skin ages, it loses its elasticity to bounce back in place. These grooves then become permanent features on your face. 
• Smoking: Nicotine and other chemicals present in cigarettes causes blood vessels to narrow and reduce the flow of oxygen to skin cells. 

Skincare tips and products, you should look out for: 

• Oil production in your skin diminishes in the 40s, so it is important to keep it hydrated. Dryness is the number one contributing factor for wrinkles and fine lines. Use Ilana Organics All Time Moisturiser, that lets your skin breathe while regenerating new skin cells. The anti-ageing plant compounds in the fruit also help in stimulating keratinocyte cells (skin cells) and help in cellular regeneration thereby keeping wrinkles and sagging skin at bay.
• When we think of moisturising, we think of the face, but often forget the eye area. The eye area is the only place on the face that does not have any oil glands, so it is not going to produce its own moisture. Fine lines and wrinkles will begin to develop here first. Providing hydration through eye creams can prevent premature ageing. Ilana Organics Lush Eyes (Eye cream & Mask) contains Kiwi Oil known to maintain moisture in the skin. This eye mask boosts collagen and unveils brighter youthful looking eyes.

• Retinol is a great ingredient to use daily in your 40s night routine. It strips of surface skin to allow healthier skin to form underneath to shine through. That shows results by reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and improving the texture of the skin. However, always remember to wear sun protection the next morning to ensure that the effect is not undone. Herbis Botanicals Laguna Anti-Aging Face Oil is formulated with Cacay nut oil which is well-known for its natural retinol content.

• Pigmentation is the discolouration in areas of your skin caused by sun exposure, stress, pollution and ageing. Try Martiderm DSP-Bright 30 Ampoules | 5% Vitamin C | Depigmentation to target uneven skin and dark spots.

• Use products with antioxidants as they may help repair and prevent further skin damage. They help to brighten your skin and even out skin tone. Martiderm Photo-Age 10 Ampoules | 15% Vitamin C | Anti-Ageing is a formulation infused with antioxidants to prevent the appearance of photo-aging signs and to protect the skin from everyday pollution. It is a preventive anti aging treatment that repairs sun damage. Additionally, you can use Herbis Botanicals Superhero Face Oil that has excellent antioxidant, anti aging properties that restores dry and flaky skin, fades blemishes and brightens up your skin giving you a soft, plump and healthy glowing skin. 

• Consider using mild, unscented Clean Beauty products year round. Fragranced, alcohol based products can leave ageing skin feeling irritated and dry. 

SKINCARE IN YOUR 60'S AND ABOVE: 

A lot of us in our 60s aim to achieve younger looking skin rather than focusing on healthier skin. It is important to use natural products to meet the nutritional needs. 

Major Concerns: Excessive dryness, thinning of skin and loss of firmness

Causes: 

• Other health problems: It is common for older individuals to have underlying health conditions such as diabetes or kidney diseases. Higher than normal blood glucose level pulls fluids from your body causing dry skin. Moreover, kidney failure can make changes in the oil and sweat glands that may also lead to dryness.  
• Lack of sleep: It takes longer for men and women in their 60s and above to fall asleep. Not sleeping enough can also cause your skin to develop wrinkles and loss of elasticity. This can increase the stress hormone called Cortisol that breaks down collagen and reduces the repair speed of your skin. 

Skincare tips and products, you should look out for: 

• The main issue with excessive dryness in the skin is that the moisturiser will not be able to penetrate through the barriers. It sits on the surface of the skin. Prep your skin by using a plant based oil and dab of the excess using a warm wet towel before applying your moisturiser. Swisse Hyaluro Natural Skin & Facial Hydration Serum with Senna Plan Extract & Almond Oil delivers intense and immediate hydration to the skin using a natural botanical alternative to hyaluronic acid.

• Getting rid of the dead skin cells will allow the products you apply to penetrate. Using gentle collagen renewal products such as microscrubs once a week through microdermabrasion will remove the dead skin sitting on top of your face. These are exfoliators with fine particles that will not damage your sensitive skin. Ilana Organics Energising Fruit Shell Scrub (Walnut + Plum) is an awakening micro face exfoliator made entirely from fruit shells and peels.
• As you age your skin begins to develop a tissue like appearance. This means the skin gets more sensitive and prone to bruises and tears. As you produce less collagen, your skin is less able to repair itself. To heal the skin from deep within use the Ras Luxury Oils Revival Rejuvenating Night Face Elixir lightweight texture infused with botanical oils.

• Pick a cleanser with a creamy, gel or milky consistency as they are more nourishing to the skin. Try Zyna Deep Cleansing Milk with AHAs that cleans the skin while maintaining hydration and pH balance. 

 How does our skin change over time? 

Our skin plays a surprising number of roles in our lives. It is made up of three layers: the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. The main functions of our skin is to protect, regulate and sense the world around us. However, it is constantly changing. So, let us understand the life cycle of our skin based on its various features: 

On the basis of composition: The epidermis (outer layer) is renewed every 28 days. All cells are turned over as the most superficial cells are replaced by new ones. The turnover is much faster for infants and slows down over the course of our lifetime. As we age the epidermis begins to thin, even though the number of cell layers remains unchanged. The number of pigmented cells decreases and the melanin producing cells increase in size. Therefore, aging skin looks thinner, paler, and clear.

On the basis of elasticity: Elastin is a protein found with Collagen in the dermis. It is responsible to provide structure and support our skin and organs. As with Collagen, elastin is affected by time and the elements. Our skin begins to slack as we approach our mid 40s. The loss of the elastic tissue in the skin with age causes the skin to hang loosely. Diminishing levels of elastin fibres causes the skin to sag, stretch, and lose its ability to snap back after stretching.

On the basis of durability: This can be defined as the ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage. The skin is incredibly durable, but like all other systems, it eventually succumbs to the inexorable effects of aging. The skin is also the most visible indicator of age. Due to the reduced turnover of new cells, as we age the durability of the skin reduces. It takes a longer time to heal and is sensitive to wear and tear.

On the basis of hydration: Dehydration in the skin weakens its defence and creates skin sensitivity, irritation, and premature aging. The outer layer of your skin is made up of Natural Moisturising Factor. It is this water binding that is what creates skin hydration. Balanced skin depends on the production and health of these natural moisturising factors so that your skin can both attract and retain water. As we age our natural oil production reduces leading to excessive dryness.  

SUMMARY

Your skin will have different and additional needs depending on your age. Ageing is a natural process, and your skin will change from time to time too. To ensure that your skin is fed with the correct nutrients based on its changing requirements, you must switch up and modify your skin routine over the years.

                                                                                           - Howrah Lookmanji