Aging is a natural process that affects every part of our body, including our skin. While genetics play a role, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and skincare routines can significantly impact how our skin ages over time. Understanding the changes to your skin in each decade can help you take proactive steps to maintain a youthful, healthy complexion. As an aesthetician, I see patients of all ages, and my goal is to help you choose the proper products and treatments to combat the signs of aging and maintain your radiance throughout all the phases of your life.

In Your 20s & 30s: Prevention and Protection

What to Expect

• Skin is at its peak in collagen production, keeping it firm and smooth.
• Cellular turnover is rapid, giving a bright and even complexion.
• The first signs of aging may appear, including fine lines from sun exposure and repetitive facial expressions.
• Increased oil production & acne
• Sun damage and environmental factors may start to show.

Common Skin Concerns

• Acne & Breakouts: Hormonal fluctuations can cause persistent acne.
• Oily or Combination Skin: Excess sebum can lead to clogged pores.
• Dehydration: Late nights and inconsistent skincare can lead to dullness.
• Sun Damage: Early UV exposure starts accumulating, leading to future wrinkles.
• Hyperpigmentation: Post-inflammatory marks from acne or sunspots begin to appear.

Recommended Skincare Products

• Gentle Exfoliation (AHA/BHA): Encourages cell turnover and keeps pores clear. Or a cleanser that compliments your skin type. I always stress to my patients no Laureth Sodium Sulfate should be in your cleanser as it will strip the skin and create more issues.
• Antioxidants: Helps protect against free radical damage. Some of the best examples are Vitamin C + E, Silymarin, Phloretin, and Ferulic acid. I always choose the antioxidant product I think is best for each patient based on their skin condition and any other products they are using.
• Hydrating Moisturizer: Maintains skin’s barrier and prevents dehydration. Even oily skin needs hydration. The proper moisturizer is determined by the specific skin condition and the season. An aesthetician is your best resource to determine the appropriate moisturizer.
• Oil-Free or Lightweight Moisturizers: Helps balance hydration without clogging pores.
• Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide: Targets acne and prevents breakouts. We do offer specific acne treatments that complement your skincare products.
• Retinol or Retinoids: Boosts collagen production and speeds up cell turnover. The percentage of retinol in products differs, so it is advisable to consult your aesthetician when choosing a product.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration to plump skin, and medical-grade HA products are your best choice.
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+): Daily use to prevent sun damage and premature aging. The key ingredient should be zinc oxide as found in mineral

In Your 40s & 50s: Loss of Elasticity and Deepening Wrinkles

What to Expect:

• More noticeable loss of collagen and elastin begins in this age group.
• Skin starts to sag, particularly around the jawline and under the eyes.
• Fine lines become deeper, and hyperpigmentation becomes more prominent.
• Skin becomes thinner and more fragile.
• Menopause accelerates skin aging due to decreased estrogen.

Common Skincare Concerns:

• Loss of Elasticity: Sagging around the jawline and cheeks.
• Deeper Wrinkles: Expression lines become more pronounced.
• Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots due to accumulated sun damage.
• Dryness: Oil production decreases, leading to flaky or rough skin.
• Dull Complexion: Slower cell turnover results in less radiance.

Recommended Medical Treatments and Products:

• Medium to Deeper Chemical Peels: To improve texture and pigmentation, should always be done by a licensed aesthetician to protect your delicate skin.
• Softwave, Microneedling, or Laser Resurfacing: Non-invasive skin tightening treatments to smooth the skin’s texture.
• IPL: Intense Pulse Light to even out skin tone from hyperpigmentation, rosacea, redness, and broken capillaries.
• PDGF+ Therapy: Stimulates collagen production naturally. Boosts plumping in the skin. PDGF+ are platelet-derived growth factors used for skin treatments and hair restoration.
• Stronger Retinoids: Prescription-strength options may be necessary.
• Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation and improves skin tone.
• Rich Moisturizers: Compensates for declining oil production.

In Your 60s and Beyond: Skin Thinning and Sagging

What to Expect

• Skin becomes more fragile and prone to bruising.
• Loss of fat and bone structure changes facial contours.
• Skin laxity is more pronounced, particularly around the neck and jowls.

Recommended Medical Treatments and Products:

• Laser Resurfacing (Fotofractional, IPL) – Reduces wrinkles and sun damage and improves texture
• Microneedling with PDGF+ – Firms skin and improves elasticity
• Chemical Peels (TCA, Jessner’s Peel) – Targets pigmentation and fine lines
• Hydrating Facials (DiamondGlow®, Aquagold® facials) – Deep hydration and skin rejuvenation
• Skin Tightening Treatments (Softwave™) – Stimulates collagen for lifting effects
• Rich Emollient Moisturizers: Provides deep hydration and prevents dryness. Your skin’s condition determines which moisturizer is right for you. Always ask your aesthetician to recommend the best product for you.
• Gentle Retinol Alternatives: Such as bakuchiol to avoid irritation and calm your skin. With the different percentages of retinol in products, you should have an evaluation by an aesthetician to ensure that the products you choose are the best for you.
• Skin Barrier Repair Creams: Helps prevent increased sensitivity and irritation.

Aging Gracefully

Understanding how the skin changes through the decades allows you to make informed decisions about skincare and medical treatments. While aging is inevitable, a proactive approach with targeted products and professional treatments can help you maintain a youthful and radiant appearance at any age. No matter your stage in life, sun protection, hydration, and collagen support should remain at the core of your skincare routine.

Call our office or use the online scheduling function to schedule a skincare consultation to begin your journey towards healthier skin at any age.

– Jennifer Quigley, Lead Medical Aesthetician