How to Maintain Healthy Skin After 50

As we age, our priorities change—but some remain the same. If you’re like us, glowing, healthy-looking skin is always high on the list. While some celebrities tout the benefits of cosmetic procedures (Kelly Ripa says Botox is “like magic”), there are many who speak out against cosmetic surgery. Whatever side of the scalpal your mind is on, there are Ways to get naturally glowing skin over 50 without going under the knife.

For starters, some simple additions to your skincare routine can actually make a world of difference. To learn how to achieve your best mature complexion, we consulted several experts, including dermatologists Janiene Luke, MD, and Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, and Sarah Tanno, Global Artistry Director of Haus Labs by Lady Gaga, to Get insider tips.

From preventive measures to the best serums to try, let our expert recommendations make you glow.

Wear sunscreen every day – not just at the beach.

You’ve probably heard this piece of wise advice before, but we can’t stress enough how much consistent sunscreen use can transform your skin. Sun exposure is one of the main causes of dull skin, and sunscreen is one of the best tools we have to keep that dullness at bay. “Sunscreen is important for preventing dullness because it prevents the signs of aging that come with cumulative sun exposure, including dullness and discoloration,” says Dr. Garshick.

As well as wearing sunscreen every day, try to keep your sun exposure to a minimum by staying indoors during the peak hours of sunshine (between 10am and 2pm) and wearing long sleeves, pants and a hat to block the sun, when you do time outdoors.

Moisturize, moisten, moisturize.

Dry, flaky skin can make your complexion look sallow, regardless of your age. But as you age, your skin produces less sebum (oil), making a good moisturizer an absolute must in your skincare routine. When your old moisturizer is no longer sufficient, swap out for a thicker formula.

The right moisturizer not only makes your skin look and feel amazing, it also preps your face for flawless makeup application – because the only thing worse than dull skin is dull skin covered in sticky makeup. up is covered.

“I prefer to prep the skin with a heavy cream like Augustinus Bader or the classic Crème De La Mer, both are ultra-rich and moisturizing and perfectly prep the skin for makeup. If you’re looking for something more affordable, I also like Weleda Skin Food,” says Tanno.

Try retinol.

Retinol is a holy grail ingredient for all skin types and ages, but it’s especially amazing for anyone over 50. Found in over-the-counter and prescription formulas, this powerhouse can help improve the overall appearance of aging skin.

“Retinol is an ingredient that promotes collagen production and improves cell turnover. Retinol (and in particular tretinoin, the prescription version that has been extensively studied and proven to have anti-aging benefits) is effective at improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increasing collagen production and improving skin texture to reveal a more radiant complexion “, explains Dr. Hatch.

Brighten with vitamin C.

If you want to brighten your complexion, you need to incorporate a vitamin C product into your routine. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin by neutralizing the free radicals it is exposed to on a daily basis. “Free radicals can cause changes in our DNA and activate certain enzymes responsible for breaking down the collagen in our skin,” explains Dr. Hatch. “Applying vitamin C to the skin can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promote collagen and has some lightening properties as it reduces and prevents abnormal pigment production.”

Arrange a professional treatment.

You might 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 that you can get in 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 because they can help speed up the skin’s cell turnover,” explains Dr. Hatch. “Resurfacing lasers and microneedling (devices) are additional treatments that can help restore radiant skin 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 body’s largest organ. So if you want your skin to look and feel its best, you need to make your body look and feel that good. Luckily, the keys to a happy, healthy body are nearly universal, no matter your age. Make sure you drink plenty of water if you smoke, quit the habit, eat lots of whole foods, and get rest.

Start early.

When it comes to youthful looking skin, prevention really is the name of the game. “It’s important to start early and not wait for skin changes,” says Doctor Garshick. Whether you’ve already celebrated your 50th birthday or that milestone is just around the corner, it’s never too early to start adopting healthy skincare habits.

In 2022, we’re rethinking how we view middle age. At 40 to 50, middle age is (theoretically) older than ever – and everyone is choosing their own path as we live longer. Gone are the days of hiding shades of gray, being low key in your feelings about Botox (in one way or another), or believe Bikinis are strictly for 20 year olds only (just ask Elizabeth Hurley). In 2022, middle-aged people are rising and proud of it. It’s also not a one-size-fits-all experience. We asked psychologists, dermatologists, makeup artists, and others to help us paint a picture of middle age (in all its glory) — including how we see middle age, what we still want to learn about middle age, and how we feel about ourselves we should take care of that even in middle age.