When Should I Start Using Anti-Aging Products?

There is quite a bit of debate as to when a woman should start using anti-aging products and how strong the products should or shouldn't be when they are used. Most experts and lay persons agree that a woman can start seeing a change in her skin in the mid to late 20’s. The face is less plump and more sculpted. The skin may become dryer than in the past. Some young women may notice small wrinkles forming around the eyes, mouth or forehead. How quickly these things show and to what degree are affected by personal habits such as smoking and by how much sun damage has occurred when failing to use sun screen.

Up to this point, a good cleansing and moisturizing routine along with daily use of sunscreen would be sufficient. Most dermatologists agree at this age that you do not need to start using heavy duty treatment products such as a woman in her 40’s or 50’s, these products may actually cause more damage or problems than they fix. Heavy duty creams or moisturizers may aggravate acne prone skin. Overly zealous use of products that exfoliate or peels can strip moisture out of your skin and actually accelerate the aging process. If you do start using an anti-aging product, experts recommend that a light cream or serum containing retinol to help exfoliate dead skin cells, promote collagen production and repair sun damage would be a good place to start.

The reality is there are no set rules on how soon a woman should start using anti-aging products. For the average woman, a “less is more” approach would be best. Prevention is the best way to avoid skin issues. If a woman starts to see signs of aging, step up to the lightest treatment option available. Only increase in strength and power of the treatment as she progresses in age. A little research can show beauty treatments geared toward the woman in her 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and beyond.