Maybe you sailed through your 20s, ignoring the need for sunscreen and giving little thought to your skin. Now, in your 30s and beyond, it’s time to take care of this organ that will carry your body into your golden years.
From the Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers, here are some things to expect as you march through the decades.
Flirty 30s
Uh oh. What’s that — a fine line? The beginning of a neck waddle? This is when the ravages of time start to insist we take skin care seriously. Collagen production slows down and the turnover of our skin cells starts to decrease. If you worshipped the sun, it’s going to start to show. Recommendations: continue to use sunscreen, up your hydration game and exfoliate regularly.
Hormonal 40s
Hormones begin to change in our 40s with thinner skin and a loss of skin firmness due to a decrease in collagen. Hyperpigmentation and age spots might occur. Daily sunscreen is nonnegotiable at this stage of the game, and to strengthen your skin barrier, look for moisturizers that are ceramide-based. Antioxidants are your superpower when fighting those free radicals, so pile on the blueberries and take vitamin C and E to keep your skin healthy and bright.
Nifty 50s
Oil production is lessening, causing increased dryness, and the decrease of collagen and elastin may show up as droopy skin. Your skin may bruise more easily, and those fine lines may turn into official wrinkles. The answer? “Hydration, hydration, hydration,” the center advises, adding that thick, nourishing creams should contain hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Time for very gentle cleansing and continued use of antioxidants and SPF to head off any further damage.
Sexy 60s and beyond
We may be older, but we still got it. However, our skin may not be as cooperative as our blithe spirits. Skin at this age is significantly thinner and more fragile. Age spots and discoloration may show up, and due to years of exposure to the sun, skin cancer risks increase. Moisturizing consistently and checking in with your dermatologist for annual skin exams are a must.
