Whether you’re in your 20’s, 50’s or somewhere in between, aging skin is caused by changes in the deeper layers of the skin resulting from UV damage, collagen loss, less active sebaceous glands and a decrease in skin cell turnover. These are the 7 signs generally accepted:
1. Fine lines and wrinkles
2. Uneven skin tone
3. Loss of elasticity/sagging
4. Age/sun spots
5. Dull complexion
6. Uneven skin texture
7. Enlarged pores
Some of these changes are intrinsic – a result of the passage of time or genetics – things over which we have little or no control. Other signs of aging are due to extrinsic factors such as unprotected sun exposure, poor diet or neglecting the basics of skin care like cleansing and moisturizing each night. Thankfully, we can exert some influence over extrinsic factors.
Regardless of why your skin ages, there are happily many products and active ingredients that we can use to minimize the signs of aging:
- Retinoids: It is certainly no secret that retinoids are the stars in the world of anti-aging skin care. Retinoids get rid of fine lines and wrinkles, unclog pores so that they are less visible, lighten dark spots, exfoliate, eliminate blemishes and increase the production of collagen. Is there anything that retinoids cannot do? If you’re looking for a gentle way to introduce retinoids to your skin, consider Apothekari A is for Anti-Aging retinal serum. It contains retinaldehyde, the least irritating yet extremely effective form of Vitamin A.
- Sunscreen: Whether you use a dedicated sunscreen or one that is combined with a moisturizer, it’s essential to choose a stable, broad-spectrum formulation every day, rain or shine, summer or winter. The UVA rays that cause photoaging (as opposed the the UVB ones that cause burning) are just as strong in the warm seasons as in the cold ones. Although prevention may be the best policy, a recent study has shown that it’s never too late to start.
- Skin lighteners: Hydroquinone may be the most well-known skin lightener and considered the gold standard, but there are certainly other botanical based lighteners for those who may not be able to tolerate hydroquinone or who are simply looking for an alternative. Kojic acid, bearberry, rumex and arbutin have all shown to be effective in inhibiting the production of melanin and reducing the look of dark spots.
- Alpha hydroxy acids: Exfoliators like glycolic acid, malic acid and mandelic acid work to slough away the old, dead skin cells in order to reveal the newer, more youthful skin underneath. They also work to remove the barrier that may slow or stop the absorption of other skin treatments like serums and moisturizers.
- Antioxidants: The primary function of antioxidants is to prevent damage by neutralizing free radicals. Used regularly, an antioxidant serum can reduce premature aging of the skin. Your skin will profit by becoming noticeably brighter, firmer, more evenly toned, and healthier. Vitamin C is a powerful and popular antioxidant that’s used in serums, creams and lotions. Look for concentrations of at least 10% L-ascorbic acid, the stable form of Vitamin C, in order to reap the most benefits. Our customers love Apothekari Undercover Agent Serum.
When it comes to aging skin, we may not be able to stop the hands of time but being able to slow them down is a pretty good alternative.
