Visible signs of aging are one of the primary skincare concerns for both men and women, so it’s no wonder we see so many anti-aging formulas on the market. That said, the term can be somewhat vague. What does anti-agingactuallymean, and how is it going to change your complexion? Here is our crash course on anti-aging skincare – including how to create the ultimate anti-aging routine. 

What "Anti-Aging" Means in Skincare

When you hear the term anti-aging in relation to skincare, it’s referring to any formula that is crafted to target one (or more) of the signs of aging. This includes fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, and reduced elasticity and firmness. Whether it be a serum, an eye cream, or a moisturizer, a high-quality anti-aging skincare formula will work to reduce the appearance of current signs of aging. At the same time, it will strengthen, nourish, and protect the skin to slow down the visible aging process to maintain a youthful complexion. 

When Should Anti-Aging Skin Care Start?

This might be surprising, but there are benefits to starting an anti-aging routinebeforeyou even start seeing signs of aging. Many dermatologists recommend patients start developing an anti-aging regimen as soon as they are in their early 20s. 

Now, this doesn’t mean everyone needs to have a fully developed anti-aging routine by the time they turn 20. Rather, this is a great time to start using a few key products that help maintain and strengthen the skin. 

For example, if you are in your early 20s, consider working an  anti-aging antioxidant serum into your routine. Antioxidants help defend the skin against environmental aggressors, which can contribute to signs of aging. By protecting the skin, an antioxidant serum will help you maintain a youthful complexion. 

For those in their 20s that aren’t already using sunscreen on a daily basis, this is also the time to break that habit. Sunscreen is the ultimate anti-aging product, as it defends against sun damage, which is one of the biggest contributors to visible signs of aging. 

If you are no longer in your 20s, don’t fret. It’s never too late to start an anti-aging routine! Now is the perfect time to develop a targeted routine that addresses any concerns you may have to help you achieve your best skin yet. 

How to Start an Anti-Aging Skincare Routine

Changing your routine can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need to do a complete overhaul of the products you already use. Instead, focus on adding in a few heavy hitters to your routine. 

The first move is to work targeted serums into your daily regimen. Serums have high concentrations of active ingredients, which means they’ll offer the best, most visible results. Any anti-aging routine should include a vitamin C serum, like the  Vitamin C Boost Serum. Vitamin C is one of the ultimate anti-aging ingredients, as it brightens, softens fine lines and wrinkles, and fades the look of discoloration. It also provides antioxidant benefits, ensuring the skin is protected against future damage. 

Additionally, you might want to consider using retinol in your evening routine. Retinol is often considered the gold standard anti-aging treatment, as it stimulates collagen production and enhances skin cell turnover, helping to soften lines and wrinkles, fade discoloration, and improve elasticity. Retinol can be drying, so consider pairing it with a  hydrating serum to plump the skin with hydration. 

Next up, consider adding an eye cream or serum to your repertoire. This is especially beneficial if you are concerned about fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin around the eyes. Look for formulas made with anti-aging ingredients like peptides, retinol, and vitamin C, as well as moisturizing ingredients to keep the skin soft and supple. 

Finally, be sure you are using sunscreen daily. This is key for maintaining your results and preventing sun damage to the skin.  

If you already have a face wash and moisturizer that works well for your skin, don’t feel pressured to change them. Simple, gentle formulas will complement the effects of these treatments, and will keep your skin calm and healthy. 

Advanced Skincare Techniques for Anti-Aging

Developing a targeted at-home skincare routine should be your first step towards achieving and maintaining a radiant, youthful complexion. That said, some may want to consider trying additional advanced skincare techniques (under the care of a dermatologist or licensed aesthetician) for more dramatic results. 

There are endless professional in-office treatments and procedures that you can turn to, but here are a few of the most popular (and most effective) options: 

• Chemical peels and microdermabrasion, both of which deeply exfoliate to rejuvenate the complexion for a brighter, more youthful look
• Microneedling, which creates micro wounds in the skin to stimulate collagen production
• Laser treatments, which help resurface the skin to target fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration
• Fillers and injectables, which plump the skin (to address loss of volume) or target muscle movements (to tackle fine lines and wrinkles)