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Why Trust Dermatologists on Anti-Ageing Skincare?
As we age, our skin undergoes significant changes, including a loss of collagen, reduced elasticity, and increased dryness. To navigate these challenges, we consulted three leading dermatologists to curate an evidence-based skincare routine. Their expertise ensures you invest in products that truly deliver results for mature skin concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone.
How Ageing Affects Your Skin
According to Dr Zainab Laftah, a consultant dermatologist with 16 years of experience, ageing leads to collagen depletion and shrinking fatty pads, causing skin laxity, sagging, and volume loss. Environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution exacerbate these issues, contributing to pigmentation and wrinkles. Dr Ellie Rashid, a consultant dermatologist at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, adds that common concerns for mature skin include loss of firmness, increased dryness, and uneven skin tone.
Most Effective Anti-Ageing Ingredients
Dermatologists highlight several key ingredients proven to combat ageing signs. Retinoids top the list for stimulating collagen and elastin, softening fine lines, and evening skin tone. Dr Laftah emphasises their scientific backing, while Dr Rebecca Rollett, an award-winning plastic surgeon, recommends starting with low concentrations and daily SPF use.
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is praised by Dr Rashid for enhancing elasticity, reducing redness, and improving moisture retention. Skincare acids like glycolic and azelaic acid help exfoliate and fade hyperpigmentation, with Dr Laftah noting their role in reversing photo-damage.
Hyaluronic acid maintains hydration, and ceramides support the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss. Dr Rollett recommends high-concentration formulas for lasting effects. Vitamin C, combined with ferulic acid, offers antioxidant protection and brightening benefits, forming part of the essential ABCs of skincare: vitamin A, broad-spectrum SPF, and vitamin C.
Top Skincare Products for Mature Skin
Dr Rollett advises focusing on quality over quantity, suggesting a simple routine with three to four medical-grade products. For cleansers, she favours Obagi-C's C cleansing gel for its brightening properties. In moisturisers, StriVectin's anti-wrinkle SD advanced plus intensive moisturizing concentrate stands out for its blend of collagen, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, praised in tests for improving dryness and elasticity.
Eye creams like AlumierMD's alumineye cream address wrinkles and dark circles with retinol and light-reflecting particles. Sunscreen is crucial for prevention; Dr Laftah stresses daily use, with options like Antipodes supernatural SPF50+ ceramide silk facial sunscreen for a radiant finish or Garnier Ambre Solaire ultra-light sensitive sun protection face fluid SPF50+ for affordability and hydration.
By incorporating these dermatologist-approved ingredients and products, you can effectively boost hydration, improve skin texture, and tackle the visible signs of ageing. Start with a basic routine and gradually introduce key elements for optimal results.