Updating your skincare after 30
Some people fear their 30th birthday—and while it serves as a turning point, turning 30 doesn’t have to be a bad thing. There’s plenty to look forward to in your 30s, such as advancing in your career, the possibility of being able to afford a house, and settling down with a partner.
One significant change that people should make after turning 30 is to update their skincare routine. Your 20s were all about banishing blackheads, but your 30s are about preventing the signs of premature aging.
How your skin changes in your 30s
In your 30s, your skin doesn’t produce as much collagen and elastin due to dropping hormone levels. Cell turnover also becomes slower in your 30s, so your expression lines start to become more pronounced. You’ll even notice subtle sagging and bagging.
If you partied hard in your 20s and were a sun worshipper, you might notice fine lines start to appear around your eyes and frown lines become more visible. Your skin may also become either dry or oily. Because of slower cell turnover, you might experience adult acne. This is why you need to choose the right skincare products to combat these issues.
Your AM routine
Here’s your perfect AM skincare routine for combating premature aging in your 30s.
Micellar water
Your skin renews itself as you’re sleeping, eliminating toxins and debris. When you wake up, you should use micellar water to cleanse your face. It acts as a magnet to pick up sebum.
Toner
Toners tighten pores, eliminate toxins, and rebalance your skin. In particular, toners that contain antioxidants rebalance your skin’s PH level to 5.5 for optimal skin health. Toners also prep your skin for serums and moisturizers, making them work more effectively.
Serum
When it comes to delivering ingredients deep within your dermis, you should choose serums over moisturizers. Since you’re more susceptible to hyperpigmentation in your 30s, you should use a serum that contains antioxidants such as vitamins C, B, and E, and ferulic acid, all of which break down existing damage and protect skin from new damage.
Your PM routine
Follow this nighttime skincare routine to put your best face forward in the morning.
Face wash
Incorporate a salicylic-based face wash into your nighttime skincare routine at least three times a week. It’ll help break down dead skin cells without causing micro tears. On the other days, use a gentle cleanser that’s hypoallergenic.
Night cream/serum
The goal of a night cream is to support your skin while it regenerates itself. This happens during sleep. Incorporate retinol into your nighttime ritual, which helps to stimulate collagen production and thicken skin.
Eye cream
Because the skin around your eyes is so delicate, it’s the first place to show early signs of aging. Eye creams are specifically designed for the area around your eyes, so you should use one on a regular basis. Look for eye creams that contain hyaluronic acid—it helps to hydrate and plump skin.
Your weekly routine
In addition to following an AM and PM skincare routine, you should also incorporate these items into your weekly regimen.
Exfoliant
In your 30s, you should amp up your exfoliation regimen to boost cell turnover. Use a chemical exfoliator twice a week to keep your skin fresh and bright.
Hydrating mask
Once a week, use a hydrating mask to relieve dry, itchy skin. Masks are faster, gentler, and more effective than ever before, so it’s never been a better time to incorporate hydrating face masks into your skincare routine.
Embrace your 30s with open arms
Even if you’re afraid to turn 30, there’s really nothing to fear. Your 30s are a whole new and exciting chapter in your life. To maintain youthful skin, start by following the skincare routine above—just remember to use skincare products with ingredients that actively target the signs of premature aging.
References
- “The Best Skincare Routine for Your 30s,” Allure, January 17, 2018.
- “Skincare Through The Ages,” Sephora, n.d.
- “This is The Best Skincare to Use in Your 30s to Stave Off Wrinkles,” Women’s Health, November 10, 2017.
