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The term “anti-aging” is essentially cunning: the vector of time has one direction, and promises to “turn it back” are nothing more than a metaphor. We are looking not so much for a miracle as for a remedy that would allow us to look good — at any age.
At what point, exactly, should you start “fighting with age”? This is a big question. It must be admitted that all the increasingly complex formulas and intricate reasoning of cosmetic brands do not make our task easier — primarily because each of us has our own expectations and needs. We are not equal before the aging process, which depends on the genetic heritage, and on our life’s ups and downs, and on the habit (or ability) to take care of ourselves regularly. The boundaries of age are conditional, but within the framework of these conventions there are certain patterns.
2O+
What’s going on
So far, nothing serious, although «young women have been found to be buying their first anti-aging treatment at an earlier and earlier age, starting in their 20s,» says Dr. Veronique Delvigne, Lancome’s R&D director. Just at this age, self-care rules are learned for life, for example, the habit of cleansing the skin in the morning and evening. Up to 30 years, a moisturizer is enough. The skin actively regenerates and contains enough collagen to remain soft and supple. If at this age you accustom your skin to a more powerful remedy, there is a risk of falling into a vicious circle: the cells become «lazy» and begin to demand more and more powerful stimulants.
What can be done
Apply every morning a moisturizer that suits your skin type. Give preference to natural formulas that are well absorbed. Night cream for this age, according to some experts, can be considered superfluous. By the age of twenty-five, you can start using an eye contour product: usually the first wrinkles appear in this area.
3O+
What’s going on
“From the age of 30, the skin begins to change, metabolism slows down, cell renewal becomes less active, collagen production decreases,” explains Dr. Frederic Bonte, director of scientific relations at LVMH Recherche. The first wrinkles are usually caused by the work of facial muscles and dehydration. Thin and shallow, they only slightly affect the surface of the skin.
What can be done
If the signs of age on the skin are insignificant, use the anti-aging cream “from the first wrinkles” twice a year (in autumn and spring), in the morning and in the evening, as an alternative to the usual care product (up to 40 years, the main care includes the use of a day cream that protects against aggressive environment). If the signs of age are more pronounced, use an anti-aging product constantly, morning and evening. Get into the habit of applying your cream to the neck area as well.
35+
What’s going on
Wrinkles become more pronounced and are localized closer to the lower part of the face — these are nasolabial folds (from the base of the nose to the folds of the lips), neck. A decrease in skin tone is manifested by the age of 40 — the age at which it becomes thinner, less elastic. At this point, anti-aging care is really justified.
What can be done
Apply anti-aging cream morning and evening. You can use the same cream or two different ones — for the morning and for the evening. What is their fundamental difference? The day cream contains a sunscreen, but at night we don’t need it. Some brands produce universal creams that do not contain filters, but enhance the natural protection of the skin — they can be used at any time of the day. But for those who have a tendency to age spots, it is better to play it safe — use makeup with UV protection, and on sunny days — sunscreen. One brand of products is preferred to avoid unwanted chemical reactions.
Serums are also good allies. They contain about twice as many active ingredients as a cream. Serum applied under the cream enhances its effectiveness. It can be used all the time or used as a course, in the off-season, after a stressful period or illness.
45+
What’s going on
The approach of menopause marks a new turn: the density of the skin changes, it becomes less elastic. The epidermis renews more slowly, thins out, produces less sebum, becomes drier and does not recover as quickly: pillow marks on the cheek do not disappear for several hours. Another problem is the appearance of age spots.
What can be done
Use morning and evening anti-aging product «for mature skin». It has a complex effect on all signs of skin aging (loss of elasticity, lack of nutrition, age spots …). Additionally, you can choose a “targeting agent” to solve the most pronounced problem — for example, serum against age spots.
55+
What’s going on
The skin begins to thin and lose its density. She becomes more and more dry and vulnerable. The supporting fibers are damaged, the face sinks. Wrinkles are verticalized: above the upper lip, mesh on the cheeks…
What can be done
Continue to use the anti-aging product morning and evening, it will slow down the signs of aging. At this age, when there are fewer tactile contacts, it is especially important — both for the body and for the soul — to maintain sensual contact with oneself. Listen to your desires, give yourself pleasure using your favorite creams, in which you like not only the effect, but also their aroma and texture.