Ageing is a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for dull, sagging skin. Understanding the science behind skin ageing can help you make informed decisions about your skincare routine, lifestyle choices, and professional treatments. Dr Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, breaks down the factors that contribute to ageing and provides actionable tips to keep your skin looking youthful for years to come.
What Causes Skin Ageing?
Skin ageing is influenced by intrinsic (natural) and extrinsic (environmental) factors. While you can’t stop the natural ageing process, you can take steps to slow down the external factors that accelerate ageing.
1. Intrinsic Ageing (Natural Ageing Process)
Intrinsic ageing is determined by your genetics and happens naturally over time.
- Slower Cell Turnover: As we age, skin cells regenerate more slowly, leading to a dull complexion.
- Collagen & Elastin Breakdown: By your mid-20s, collagen production decreases by about 1% per year, causing skin to lose its firmness and elasticity.
- Reduced Oil Production: The skin produces less oil, making it drier and more prone to fine lines.
2. Extrinsic Ageing (Environmental & Lifestyle Factors)
Unlike intrinsic ageing, extrinsic ageing is within your control. These factors can speed up the ageing process:
- Sun Exposure: UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of firmness.
- Pollution: Environmental toxins cause oxidative stress, damaging skin cells.
- Lifestyle Choices: Poor diet, smoking, alcohol, and lack of sleep contribute to premature ageing.
- Repeated Facial Expressions: Squinting, frowning, and smiling can create fine lines over time.
Tip: While you can’t control genetics, you can minimise extrinsic ageing by making better lifestyle choices.
Signs of Skin Ageing & When They Appear
Ageing affects everyone differently, but here’s a general timeline:
- 20s: Collagen production starts to decline, and early signs of sun damage may appear.
- 30s: Fine lines around the eyes and mouth develop, and skin starts to lose its natural glow.
- 40s: Wrinkles become more noticeable, and skin elasticity decreases.
- 50s & Beyond: Skin becomes drier, thinner, and more prone to sagging due to reduced collagen and estrogen levels.
Tip: The earlier you start an anti-ageing routine, the better your skin will look in the long run!
How to Maintain a Youthful Glow
1. Wear Sunscreen Every Day
Sunscreen is the most important anti-ageing product you can use.
- Best SPF: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- When to Apply: Every morning, even on cloudy days.
- Reapplication: Every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.
Tip: Pair sunscreen with an antioxidant serum (like Vitamin C) for added protection.
2. Boost Collagen Production
Since collagen loss is one of the biggest culprits behind ageing, stimulating its production is key.
- Retinoids: Retinol and prescription retinoids (e.g., tretinoin) increase cell turnover and collagen synthesis.
- Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant that helps brighten skin and boost collagen.
- Peptides: These amino acids signal your skin to produce more collagen.
Tip: Introduce retinol slowly to avoid irritation—start with 2-3 times per week and increase as tolerated.
3. Hydrate & Strengthen the Skin Barrier
Moisturised skin appears plumper and healthier, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts moisture and keeps skin hydrated.
- Ceramides & Fatty Acids: Strengthen the skin barrier to lock in moisture.
- Niacinamide: Reduces redness, strengthens the skin, and improves elasticity.
Tip: Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can weaken your skin’s protective barrier.
4. Eat an Anti-Ageing Diet
What you eat directly impacts your skin’s health and ageing process.
- Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Berries, leafy greens, and nuts help fight free radicals.
- Healthy Fats: Omega-3s from salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds keep skin supple.
- Hydrating Foods: Cucumbers, watermelon, and celery support moisture retention.
Tip: Reduce processed foods and excess sugar, as they contribute to skin inflammation and ageing.
5. Prioritise Sleep & Stress Management
Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, and stress can accelerate ageing.
- Get 7-9 Hours of Sleep: Poor sleep increases cortisol levels, which break down collagen.
- Reduce Stress: Meditation, exercise, and deep breathing help control stress-related ageing.
Tip: Invest in a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent sleep wrinkles.
Professional Treatments to Slow Ageing
If you want to take your anti-ageing routine to the next level, consider professional treatments:
- Chemical Peels: Remove dead skin cells and stimulate collagen.
- Microneedling: Encourages skin regeneration and collagen production.
- Laser Treatments: Improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and fade pigmentation.
- Botox & Fillers: Smooth out fine lines and restore volume loss.
Tip: Consult a dermatologist or skincare professional to find the best treatment for your skin type and goals.
While ageing is inevitable, premature skin ageing isn’t. By protecting your skin from the sun, maintaining hydration, using collagen-boosting ingredients, and making smart lifestyle choices, you can keep your skin looking youthful for longer. For expert guidance and personalised treatments, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. Visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog for more skincare tips and insights.