It’s no secret that skin changes as we age. It happens whether we like it or not. But why does this seem to happen in our 40s? For starters, the natural life cycle of skin begins to slow down. This means discoloration can begin, and you may start to see wrinkles and sagging due to the reduction of collagen production. Hormonal changes may also trigger embarrassing adult acne. But we have good news! Even if you’ve already hit 40, it’s not too late to turn back the clock on your skin and undo the signs of damage.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Christine Yuengel is the founder of Winston Salem Dermatology. She focuses on clinical dermatology, dermatologic surgery, and cosmetic skin enhancement. She’s a board-certified dermatologist who is a member of various dermatology organizations.
What Actually Happens to Our Skin When We Hit the 40s?
Signs of aging start to hit in our 30s, but by the time we are in our 40s, it’s much more noticeable. Fine lines around the eyes, increased pigmentation, poorer texture, and deep smile lines all start to be more defined. We lose collagen as we age, which leads to unwanted spots and loose skin. But you can change your skin by changing your habits.
How to Turn Back the Clock on Aging Skin
Don’t stress about your aging skin because you have options! With the right routine and products, you can restore tissue loss, smooth folds, and tighten skin. Here are some anti-aging heroes in skincare products:
DNA Repair Enzymes
Look for products that boost about DNA repair enzymes. This will help repair DNA and improve your skin’s health.
Retinoid or Retinol Creams
Have you already started using retinol? If not, it’s time. These creams help improve skin elasticity, which will decrease fine lines.
High-Quality Vitamin C
Products with Vitamin C will help fade dark spots. Other ingredients like kojic acid, black licorice, bearberry, arbutin, niacinamide, and hydroquinone are also good ingredients to incorporate into a skincare routine to fade spots.
Epidermal Growth Factor
These products help thicken skin and boost collagen production.
Oral Acne Treatments
It’s frustrating to struggle with acne even in your 40s. And topicals don’t work as easily as they did in your 20s. Your dermatologist may have to prescribe an oral treatment for you to see the best results.
Moisturizer
Changing hormones leaves our skin dull and dry in our 40s. If you’re using a gel moisturizer, you will want to swap it out for heavy cream. Cetaphil and CeraVe are good fragrance-free skincare products for sensitive skin.
Sunscreen
Let’s be honest, we should use sunscreen on a daily basis at all ages, right? Well, it’s especially important in our 40s. Make sure it is broad-spectrum with an SPF of at least 30.
A Skin Routine for Younger Skin
In the Morning
Step 1: Cleanse
Avoid harsh scrubs and reach for a gentle cleanser instead.
Step 2: Repair
Apply a product that will help repair like a DNA Intensive Renewal Moisturizer.
Step 3: Moisturize
Use a moisturizer that best suits your skin type.
Step 4: Sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF for all-day protection against harsh UV rays.
At Night
Step 1: Cleanse
Remove makeup and oil from the day.
Step 2: Apply a Retinoid
Use a retinoid or growth factor serum to regenerate collagen production and target elastin synthesis.
Step 3: Apply Brightening Agent
If needed, apply a brightening agent for pigmentation.
Step 4: Moisturize
Like you do in the morning, apply a moisturizer for your skin type.
For More on Skin Care, Contact Winston Salem Dermatology Today!
When it comes to skincare, you’re in good hands with Winston Salem Dermatology. Our team of experts diagnose and treat skin problems and disorders of all types and are ready to tackle aging skin. If you choose to take the route of injections to turn back time with your skin, your treatments will be performed by the best! Dr. Chris Yuengel has been given the title of an expert injector by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Find out why we are the Triad’s preferred dermatology and cosmetic skincare team. Call us today at (336) 774-8636, and we will help reverse the signs of aging skin.