Wrinkling skin is an inevitable part of ageing, but certain lifestyle choices including smoking and excessive sun exposure can have a detrimental effect on your skin’s health. The sun’s harmful UV rays and the chemicals found in cigarettes aid premature ageing by breaking down the essential collagen and elastin fibres that keep skin looking firm and youthful. Along with avoiding these injurious habits, keeping hydrated and eating nutrient-rich foods, you can promote healthy, youthful skin by incorporating topical products with key anti-ageing ingredients into your skincare regime.
Eyes
The skin around the eyes (referred to in medical terms as the periocular area) is significantly thinner than skin elsewhere on the face—by three to five times, in fact. This means that it is highly susceptible to damage and premature ageing, including the dreaded ‘crow’s feet’. So-called because the lines that span from the corners of the eyes to the temple emulate those of the bird’s actual ‘feet’, crow lines are often caused by sun exposure and general repetitive facial movements. Tackle this common sign of ageing with a nourishing eye cream that contains vitamins A, C and E both in the morning and before sleeping. Using a topical product that has the exfoliating chemical glycolic acid in it may also be beneficial. Glycolic acid works to remove dead skin cells on the epidermis, revealing the fresh skin beneath and promoting the production of collagen.
Mouth
The mouth is one of our main communicators. With repetitive movement from speaking and external factors like sun exposure, the elastin and collagen in the skin that surrounds the mouth begins to break down and lines and wrinkles begin to form as we age. Use specialised skin-firming facial creams that contain retinols to combat wrinkling and to firm the skin. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative hailed in the beauty industry as the essential anti-ageing ingredient. Retinols promote the production of cells and collagen and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Neck
The frequently neglected neck area is prone to premature wrinkling and sagging, making it an obvious age-giveaway. Not only is the skin on the neck thinner than the rest of the face, but it also has fewer oil-producing glands which makes it dry. Experts recommend using topical products that have the active ingredient dicaffeoylquinic acid in them. This particular ingredient promotes the production of key proteins that help keep the skin firm.
