What Skincare to Invest in, Based on Your Age
November 13 | 4 minute read
Words by Lisa Marie Corso
Besides a fun trivia fact, skin really is our protective layer and worth every bit of the investment to make sure it’s at its best. First, a quick physiology lesson: the skin has three layers – the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis – each with a different anatomical structure and function.
Today, we’re focusing on the skin layer that gives good face – the epidermis (the outermost layer) – and how to take care of it for the long haul.
As we age, we evolve; we ditch all-night parties for 9pm bedtimes, and swap Contiki tours for boutique AirBnBs. It’s the same with our skin. From puberty-induced breakouts to that first fine line, and a whole lot more in-between and afterwards (for some of us, pregnancy brings a whole host of unforeseen changes), each decade of life is a milestone to be celebrated – and when it comes to our skin, an opportunity to invest in specific skincare that works hard to keep it feeling and looking radiant, dewy and bouncy.
To find out exactly which skincare ingredients and products to introduce into our routines as we age, we spoke to MECCA’s Skincare Education Manager, Consuella.
Your Teens
Prioritise: a good cleanser and SPF
You’ve entered the teenage years of discovery – new music! new fashion! new friends! – which also means new skin complications (most commonly, oiliness and breakouts). What doesn’t need to accompany them is a complicated skincare routine. This is the time in life where we can afford to keep things fun and simple.
“With hormonal changes leading to increased sebum production, it's a great time to introduce a gentle face cleanser to remove excess oil, debris and the day’s SPF while helping to balance oil levels and the skin’s microbiome,” explains Consuella.
Speaking of SPF: your 40-year-old self with thank you. “Now is the time – if you haven’t already – to add in a daily SPF, establishing a healthy routine that will prevent skin from sun damage appearing in those later years,” the expert explains.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Sunscreen is only one form of sun protection. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply as directed.
Your 20s
Prioritise: SPF and vitamin C
Congrats! You’ve made it to the independent twenties! But this time isn’t just about finding yourself – your skin is also in its glow-up era, with high collagen and elastin production for elasticity and firmness, as well as fewer breakouts and blemishes (hopefully).
For Consuella, this decade is all about prevention and introducing a new player to your routine – vitamin C: “Try a routine that includes SPF, antioxidants like vitamin C, and lightweight moisturisers that can protect against environmental stressors and maintain your skin's youthful glow.”
Your 30s
Prioritise: peptides and retinol
Generally, things start to settle down in your thirties – you’ve found the job, you shop at the farmer’s market, you pay more for your dog’s haircut than your own. This is the decade when you adult – hard – and also the one where your skin settles and collagen production drops.
“In your thirties, collagen production starts to naturally slow, making it the ideal time to introduce peptides and vitamin C to support collagen synthesis and keep skin feeling firm and resilient,” recommends Consuella. “Retinol is also a great addition during this decade, as it helps to promote cell renewal and maintain a radiant complexion.”
Your 40s
Prioritise: vitamin C and lactic acid
Skin starts to become thirstier in your forties and craves hydration the same way you now crave it every time you drink more than two glasses of wine. An exaggeration? Sure. But the sentiment is the same. At this point, you’ll notice skin becomes drier and deeply benefits from a rich, hydrating moisturiser.
This is also the decade when sunspots and fine lines may start to become more prominent, making it an excellent time to ensure vitamin C and lactic acid are on high rotation.
“Vitamin C helps to reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone, while lactic acid promotes gentle exfoliation, supporting skin turnover,” explains Consuella. “Incorporating products that boost hydration and improve elasticity can also help maintain the skin’s vibrancy and youthful look.”
Your 50s
Prioritise: hyaluronic acid, ceramides and retinol
“During your fifties, hormonal changes associated with menopause can influence skin hydration and thickness,” explains Consuella. “Incorporating hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides helps to maintain moisture and support a more plump, nourished look.”
It is reported that menopause decreases oestrogen production, which results in decreased elasticity and collagen, and the skin feeling drier. Hyaluronic acid works as a ‘moisture magnet’ that attracts water to the skin and holds it there, while ceramides prevent moisture loss, resulting in visibly plumper skin.
Your 60s and beyond
Prioritise: marine algae and ceramides
“At this time, skin experiences further changes with reduced collagen and elastin affecting firmness, which means the skin barrier may also need extra support," explains Consuella.
During this decade, Consuella recommends switching to a hydrating and reparative cream with marine algae and ceramides.
Luckily, you don’t need to take up scuba diving in retirement to soak up the benefits of marine algae. This moisture-boosting superhero ingredient helps brighten the skin, plump the complexion and minimise the appearance of fine lines.
