Unlock the Secrets of Youthful Skin: Discover the Hidden Truth About Collagen, Aging, and Environmental Factors

Did you know…

Collagen and elastin in our skin starts to slow down by the young age of 25. As a result, our skin starts to feel dry, flaky while enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles become more visibly noticeable. While all of these subtle changes are inevitable, environmental factors like blue light, pollution, and UV rays can further stress out skin, speeding up the aging process. 

Regardless of how old you are, it’s never too late - or too early - to take action and start taking care of your skin the right way.

Tips in Preventing signs of aging:

Make the switch to a hydrating cleanser

When it comes to preventing aging skin, hydration is key. For supple, younger-looking skin, switch to a hydrating and gentle cleanser. Harsh ingredients like sulfate and parabens can strip your skin, so it’s always important to check the ingredients list. If you find a face cleanser infused with hyaluronic acid or collagen, this is your personal fountain of youth!

SPF is more than just a beach day essential

Consider a good sunscreen as non-negotiable. Not only does clean sunscreen prevent signs of aging, it actually helps reverse signs of aging. SPF also protects the skin from harmful UV rays, V light, blue light, pollution, and free radicals from the environment. Dermatologists highly recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. 

Use Vitamin C serums every day

A vitamin C serum creates a shield against environmental stressors that can cause redness, clogged, enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. “Vitamin C is a powerhouse for anti-aging,” says Jessie Cheung, MD, a dermatologic surgeon in Illinois and New York City. “Not only does Vitamin C protect from free radical damage to our DNA, but it also plays a critical role in collagen synthesis, it helps to brighten our skin by inhibiting abnormal pigment creation.” 

If you already see signs of aging…

• Opt for a hydrating cream cleanser

As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, leading to less hydration and a loss of elasticity. Add back deep hydration simply by switching to a rich, hydrating cream cleanser. 

• Exfoliate regularly!

Exfoliation is an essential part of a healthy skin routine. By simply exfoliating, it smooths and polishes the skin, decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When you eliminate dead skin cells, you are exposing a new layer of skin that’s ready to absorb hydration, giving you a more youthful appearance. 

• Add an anti-aging serum to your daily routine

Never underestimate the power of an anti-aging serum! Shop around for an anti-aging serum that’s loaded with skin-loving ingredients like Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Vitamin C offers a powerful (yet gentle) antioxidant to act as a face shield from environmental aggressors.  

• Leave room for retinol

When it comes to anti-aging, Retinol is the most effective and proven ingredient at improving enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. If you haven’t started using this skin-loving ingredient, now is the time to start. “Retinols are the mainstay topical treatment for anti-aging,” says Dr. Campbell. “They have been shown to increase collagen production, increase hyaluronic acid in the skin, protect against oxidative damage, increase cell turnover, and decrease oil glands.” 

When it comes to minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing puffiness under the eyes, and revitalizing a youthful glow to your complexion, it’s never too early to start a preventative routine in taking care of your skin! 

Has switching up your skincare regimen worked for you? If so, we want to hear all about it! Share your do’s and don'ts in taking care of your skin below in the comments.