Just like your skincare routine changes with the seasons of the year, it also needs to keep up with the seasons of your life. Whether it’s environmental stress, genetics, diet, and more, caring for your skin can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in! We’re breaking down the basics of skincare by age, so you can glow through every stage of life.
We’ll cover:
- How your skin changes as you age
- Skincare routine by age
- The best skincare for aging skin
How your skin changes as you age
As the years pass, your skin evolves right along with you. From lifestyle and sun exposure to diet, genetics, and your trusty (or not-so-trusty) skincare routine, all these factors shape how your skin looks and feels.
Here’s the deal: Wrinkles, dryness, sagging, and even easier bruising aren’t signs of defeat — they’re just part of your skin’s story. The thinning of your epidermis (your skin’s protective later) plays a role, along with sebaceous glands that slow down oil production, making it harder to lock in hydration. And those pigment-producing cells? They take it easy too, giving your skin a paler, more transparent look.
Sounds like a lot, but don’t panic — it’s a natural part of life and with a few tweaks, your skincare can keep up! Let’s dive into skincare needs by age and how to adjust your skincare routine to respond to changes over time.
Should your skincare routine change with age?
Absolutely! Just as your skin has different needs at different times of the year, it also has different needs throughout each life stage. Aging skin can still have a healthy glow — it may just need a little more TLC (or different products and treatments). Here’s a quick breakdown of skincare needs by age group:
- Children and teens: Kids and teens have delicate, sensitive skin, so their skincare routine should stay simple: gentle, moisture-free cleanser and moisturizer and daily SPF.
- Young adults: The simplicity continues! Young adults thrive with gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen, but now’s the time to consider adding products like serums and oils. Want to try anti-aging treatments? Check with a dermatologist before diving into masks or exfoliators.
- Adults: Welcome to the age of glow maintenance. Alongside your trusty cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, consider anti-aging serums or creams to address fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and under-eye bags.
- Elders: Aging skin is thinner, drier, and more susceptible to irritation. The best skincare for aging skin includes gentle cleansers and soaps and frequent moisturization.
Key skincare products for every routine
If there’s one thing skincare routines for every age have in common, it’s this: cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens are non-negotiable to any effective, healthy skincare routine. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your shelf:
- Cleanser: Dirt, oil, bacteria, and debris don’t just crash your skin’s party during the day — they stick around at night too (rude, right?) Cleansers sweep away these impurities, helping prevent acne and premature aging.
- Moisturizer: Dry skin is a common concern, and it can lead to redness, irritation, and cracking. A good moisturizer restores your skin barrier and locks in hydration, keeping you oh-so-smooth and supple.
- Sunscreen: Think of sunscreen as your skin’s BFF. It shields you from wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots caused by sun exposure (one of your skin’s biggest frenemies). Apply SPF 30 daily, even if your plans don’t go beyond scrolling TikTok.
- Gentle makeup remover (bonus!): Taking off your makeup before cleansing is like a pregame for perfect skin. Micellar water is a gentle, effective option that won’t irritate your skin — skip the wipes, though, as they can be rough and lead to irritated skin.
The best skincare routine by age
Your skin’s needs evolve over time, but one thing stays the same: it deserves a little love (and SPF!). Let’s dive into how to keep your glow game strong at every stage.
Skincare must-haves for your 20s
Your roaring 20s are all about setting the stage for long-term skin health — think wrinkle prevention and keeping that bouncy, youthful glow.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends cleansing and applying sunscreen daily, then adding glow-getting skincare products tailored to your skin’s unique needs. For example: Vitamin C serum for brightness and reduced signs of aging or a retinoid for improved texture and more even skin tone. If you experience acne, you may consider a spot treatment for breakouts.
And don’t forget: Your whole-body health shows up on your face! Catch those Zs, hydrate like it’s your full-time job, and keep stress, alcohol, and smoking in check to dodge early fine lines and under-eye bags.
Skincare must-haves for your 30s
Hello, 30s! It’s time to add some power players to your routine. Keep up with your cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF, but don’t stop there.
Retinols, derived from vitamin A, are a skincare powerhouse known for boosting skin cell production and turnover, unclogging pores, exfoliating, and increasing collagen to improve skin texture and elasticity. But here’s the catch: Retinols can make your skin more sensitive, leading to dryness, irritation, and a higher risk of injury during waxing.
Why? Retinols thin the outermost layer of your skin (the epidermis) as part of their exfoliating magic, which can cause your skin to be more vulnerable to the waxing process. To avoid dry skin, irritation, or lifting, it’s best to pause retinol use at least a week before your wax.
Enter bakuchiol — a plant-based alternative we love. Bakuchiol delivers many of the same benefits as retinol, like improving texture and elasticity, without the risk of increased sensitivity. Bonus: You can keep using bakuchiol while sticking to your regular waxing routine. Win-win for your skin!
Serums and creams that contain nutrients such as vitamins C and E can also help moisturize and even out your complexion as your skin begins to produce less collagen and sebum naturally.
Skincare must-haves for your 40s
By your 40s, it’s important to prioritize moisturization and protect your skin from sun exposure, especially as your skin becomes more sensitive.
You may also consider anti-aging eye creams and serums such as hyaluronic acid to plump your skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Reminder: Beauty starts from the inside. A nutrient-rich diet full of whole foods gives your skin the boost it needs to shine. You are what you eat, after all!
Skincare for mature skin
When it comes to skincare for older skin, the phrase “less is more” holds true. As your skin becomes thinner and more sensitive, harsh products can do more harm than good, leading to irritation, dryness, and cracking.
Keep it simple and cleanse with a gentle face wash and apply a fragrance-free moisturizer daily.
Pro tip: Moisturize right after bathing to lock in extra hydration and protect your skin barrier.
4 more ways to support aging skin
In addition to your skincare routine, using these simple tips will keep your skin feeling healthier, brighter, and ready for anything.
- Opt for lukewarm water and shorter showers or baths. Hot water might feel amazing, but it can strip your skin of moisture. Pat your skin dry afterward — no vigorous towel scrubbing allowed!
- Ditch products with fragrances. Scented soaps, lotions, and creams often contain chemicals that can irritate and even dry out your skin. Stick to fragrance-free products that keep things gentle and soothing.
- Use a humidifier. The EPA recommends keeping your indoor humidity between 30% and 50% — this not only helps you breathe easier, but also prevents dry skin (and your sinuses will love it, too).
- Dress for the season. Wear a hat and gloves in cold weather — or grab a sunhat and pack an umbrella if you know you’re going to be exposed to the sun.
A final word on skincare by age
Your skincare routine is as unique as you are. The products that work best — oils, serums, creams, cleansers, and moisturizers — depend on your skin’s specific needs, your life stage, and even the season.
Finding what works can take a little trial and error, so be patient, and don’t be afraid to consult a skincare expert for advice. Our Cerologists are skincare pros, ready to provide personalized advice and recommend products tailored to help you achieve your best glow at any stage of life. After all, glowing skin isn’t just a goal — it’s a journey, and we’re here to help you enjoy every step of the way!
More anti-aging skincare tips and treatments
- The Ultimate Skincare Routine Order of Product Operations, Explained
- 9 Things Your Cerologist Wants You to Know
- Skin Brightening Treatment: Unveil Your Glow With Bryght®
- What Is Exfoliation: The Benefits, Types, and How to Do It
- Spring Cleaning: How to Properly Care for Your Makeup Brushes for the Healthiest Skin
Start your journey to your healthiest skin yet. Find the Waxing The City studio nearest you.
