7 Expert-Approved Steps for Getting Glowing Skin Over 50
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As we get older, our priorities change—but some stay the same. If you’re anything like us, having glowing, healthy-looking skin will always be at the top of the list. While some celebrities tout the pros of cosmetic procedures (Kelly Ripa says Botox is “like magic”), there are plenty that speak out against plastic surgery. Whichever side of the scalpal your opinions lie, there are ways to get naturally glowing skin over 50 that don’t involve going under the knife.
For starters, some simple additions to your skincare routine can actually make a big difference. To learn how you can achieve your best mature complexion, we consulted several experts including dermatologists Janiene Luke, M.D. and Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., and Haus Labs by Lady Gaga Global Artistry Director, Sarah Tanno to get insider tips.
From preventative measures to the best serums to try, get glowing with our expert recs.
Wear sunscreen every day—not just at the beach.
Chances are you’ve heard this sage piece of advice before, but we can’t stress enough how much consistent sunscreen use can transform your skin. Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of dull skin, and sunscreen is one of the best tools at our disposal to help keep that dullness at bay. “Sunscreen is important to help prevent dullness as it works to prevent the signs of aging that come with cumulative sun exposure, including dullness and discoloration,” Dr. Garshick says.
In addition to wearing sunscreen every day, try to keep your sun exposure to a minimum by remaining indoors during peak sun hours (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.), and wearing long sleeves, pants, and hats to block the sun when you do spend time outdoors.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
Dry, flaky skin can make your complexion look dull no matter your age. But as you get older your skin produces less sebum (oil), making a good moisturizer an absolute must in your skincare routine. If your old moisturizer is no longer doing the trick, swap it out for a thicker formula.
Not only will the right moisturizer make your skin look and feel amazing, but it will also prep your face for a flawless makeup application—because the only thing worse than dull skin is lackluster skin covered in cakey makeup.
“I prefer to prep the skin using a heavy cream like Augustinus Bader or the classic Crème De La Mer both are ultra-rich and hydrating and preps the skin perfectly for makeup. If you’re looking for something more affordable, I also like Weleda Skin Food,” Tanno says.
Try retinol.
Retinol is a Holy Grail ingredient for all skin types and ages, but it is particularly amazing for anyone over 50. The powerhouse can be found in over-the-counter and prescription formulas and can help improve the overall appearance of aging skin.
“Retinol is an ingredient that promotes collagen production and enhances cell turnover. Retinol (and more specifically tretinoin, the prescription version that has been extensively studied and proven to have anti-aging benefits) is effective in improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increasing collagen production, and improving skin texture to reveal a more radiant complexion,” Dr. Luke explains.
Brighten with vitamin C.
If you’re looking to brighten your complexion, you need to incorporate a vitamin C product into your routine. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin by neutralizing the free radicals it encounters every day. “Free radicals can cause changes in our DNA and activate certain enzymes that are responsible for breaking down the collagen in our skin,” Dr. Luke explains. “Applying vitamin C to the skin can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, help boost collagen, and has some brightening properties in that it decreases and prevents abnormal pigment production.”
Schedule a professional treatment.
You may not want to go under the knife, but that doesn’t mean you can’t rely on professional treatments to help you achieve glowing skin. There are several in-office treatments you can get at your dermatologist’s office that can help skin look and feel better than ever. Both doctors agreed that chemical peels and lasers are some of the best options for glowing skin.
“Chemical peels are a great way to achieve glowing skin since they can help accelerate the skin cells’ turnover,” Dr. Luke explains. “Resurfacing lasers and microneedling (devices) are additional treatments that can help achieve glowing skin again by stimulating collagen production and removing the epidermis, or top layer of skin, revealing newer, more radiant skin.”
Take care of your body.
The skin is the largest organ on the body, which means if you want your skin to look and feel its best, you need your body to look and feel its best. Luckily the keys to a happy healthy body are almost universal no matter your age. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, if you smoke kick the habit, eat lots of whole foods, and get plenty of rest.
Start early.
When it comes to youthful-looking skin, prevention is really the name of the game. “It is important to start early and not wait for skin changes to occur,” Doctor Garshick says. Whether you’ve already celebrated your 50th birthday or the milestone is right around the corner, it’s never too soon to adopt healthy skincare habits.
In 2022, we’re rethinking how we view middle age. Now 40 to 50, middle age (in theory) is older than ever before—and everyone’s choosing their own path as we live longer lives. Gone are the days of hiding grays, being cagey about your feelings around Botox (one way or another), or believing bikinis are solely reserved for the 20-something crowd (just ask Elizabeth Hurley). In 2022, people are stepping up in middle age, and they’re proud of it. It’s not a one-size-fits-all experience, either. We asked psychologists, dermatologists, makeup artists, and more to help us paint a picture of middle age (in all its glory)—including how we view middle age, what we still want to learn about middle age, and how to take care of ourselves in middle age, too.
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