Ann-Sophie Fjelloe-Jensen/Stocksy Nearly every time we age into a new decade, we need to change up our skincare routines to answer any upcoming internal and environmental challenges. In our 50s, especially, our hormones (or in this case, lack thereof) introduce all sorts of physical, skin-related changes; it's important to find the best antiaging ingredients and products that work best on mature skin and to alter those morning and evening regimens accordingly. Show
If you’re already in your 50s, you're likely clued in to all the ways in which decreased (or a lack of) estrogen affects the look of your face and neck. “With the sharp decline of estrogen that accompanies menopause, our skin loses its resilience and youthful appearance,” says dermatologist Jennifer Herrmann, MD, FAAD. “Estrogen holds in moisture, keeps the skin barrier robust, and promotes healthy collagen synthesis. Without it, skin dries and becomes more easily irritated. Collagen synthesis and cell turnover also stall, which makes skin look dull and tired.” Meet the Expert Dr. Jennifer Herrmann is a board certified, fellowship-trained dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon as well as a lecturer with more than 20 peer-reviewed studies and book chapters. As our skin ages, we need to make use of richer, more emollient creams and serums to hydrate, calm, and brighten. Having trouble deciding which products and habits to keep and which ones to ditch? Not to worry: Herrmann shares the best antiaging skincare products she recommends for those over the age of 50, along with the following ingredients to look for and optimal morning and evening routines. Moisturizing AgentsHydration is key for the over-50 set. Look for moisturizers that "contain ceramides and oils to help replenish the skin’s natural lipid barrier,” Herrmann says. Growth FactorsThese are the naturally-occurring, collagen-building proteins that are manufactured by all types of cells (not just skin cells) to keep skin healthy. In skincare, growth factors can come from human cells (grown in a lab) or even bioengineered, from plants. “They help target collagen synthesis to thicken skin and diminish lines,” notes Herrmann. Growth factors go by a variety of acronyms, including TGF-B, HGF, and PDGF-AA, which stimulate collagen secretion, new blood vessel formation, and regulate cell growth and division, respectively. Learn to spot them on product labels. Retinol and RetinoidsReach for a retinol or retinoid product to turn over dull skin and help increase collagen production. “Because these ingredients can be drying, I typically recommend patients start with a retinol- or micronized retinoid-based treatment to lower the possibility of irritation," Herrmann says. DNA Repair EnzymesBy the time you hit 50, your skin cells have accumulated several decades of DNA damage and their reparative enzymes (they protect us from free-radical and sun damage, for example) have declined. “Skin then begins the repair process once we administer enzymes topically," Herrmann explains. "They're important because unchecked damage accumulates, and, in addition to aging the skin, it can also lead to pre-cancers and skin cancers.” 10'000 Hours/Getty ImagesProducts to AvoidOnce you turn 50, avoid these things like the plague: Harsh Exfoliants and Gritty MasksThese may have worked back when you werefighting breakouts and oily skin, but it's best to skip any harsh exfoliants in your 50s.“They strip too much oil and exacerbate dryness,” Herrmann says. LotionsAccording to Herrmann, many lotions contain alcohol, which is very drying."Opt for creams and ointments that moisturize with higher oil contents." Unprotected Sun ExposureAge notwithstanding, it's never okay to skip sunscreen when spending time outdoors. "Damage is cumulative," says Herrmann, "so even in your 50s, it's still important to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays." Excess Exposure To Wind and ColdCold temperatures and windy days dry out and irritate the skin more easily in your 50s, so Herrmann advises avoiding undue skin exposure during chilly, inclement days as often as possible. A.M. Routine
Gentle CleanserEltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser $26.00 Shop Growth-Factor SerumDNARenewal DNA Regeneration Serum $145.00 Shop Drugstore MoisturizerCeraVe Moisturizing Cream $17.00 Shop Splurge-Worthy MoisturizerKate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizing Cream $65.00 Shop Reparative SunscreenDNARenewal Sheer Defense SPF 50+ $75.00 Shop P.M. Routine
Glycolic Acid-Infused CleanserGlytone Mild Gel Cleanser $33.00 Shop Retinoid-Comparable SerumPlatinum Skin Care Retinol Molecular Serum $62.00 Shop Vitamin C SerumSkinCeuticals C E Ferulic $166.00 Shop Reparative Enzyme TreatmentDNARenewal DNA Night Renewal $130.00 Shop What is the best skin care line for 50?How to build the best skin care routine for healthy, glowing skin.... Olay Regenerist Fragrance-Free Regenerating Face Serum.. CeraVe Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid.. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Booster Primer and Serum.. COSRX Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream.. Tula 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day and Night Cream.. What should I be using on my face in my 50s?The Best Skin Care for Women Over 50, According to Industry Pros. Cleanse and, Yes, Tone. ... . Exfoliate—But Don't Overdo It. ... . Give Yourself a Facial Massage. ... . Restore Volume Loss With Extra Moisture. ... . Treat Wrinkles and Hyperpigmentation Carefully. ... . Mask to Optimize It All.. How can a 50 year old get better skin?Apply moisturizer every day.
As we age, skin becomes drier. Fine lines and wrinkles appear. Moisturizer traps water in our skin, giving it a more youthful appearance. For best results, use a facial moisturizer, body moisturizer, and lip balm.
Can a 50 year old use retinol?How to start using retinol in your 50s – and beyond! As we said, it's never too late to start using retinol. You can even extend using retinol down your neck, too. This area of your body is just as delicate and can often show your age even more than your face because we take care of it far less.
|