The word ‘ageing’ typically carries a negative connotation.
It’s seen as something that we want to delay as much as we possibly can, especially when it comes to the way we look – so much so that in 2022, the global anti-ageing market was estimated at a whopping US$64 billion. That’s more than AUD$97 billion!
However, this perception of ageing is slowly but surely changing, with stars like Pamela Anderson, Helen Mirin and Sarah Jessica Parker championing the pro-age revolution and inspiring women all over the world to embrace the experience of ageing.
The question is, how can we practise positive ageing in our every day? Let’s dive into it.
What is positive ageing?
In skincare, positive ageing is all about shifting the narrative from fighting against things like wrinkles and fine lines, to celebrating the beauty of evolving skin. It sees ageing as a natural and inevitable part of life and encourages people to embrace their unique features.
This doesn’t mean that it completely disregards the need for a good skincare routine. On the contrary, skincare is a key part of positive ageing.
However, the focus isn’t on how youthful your skin is, but rather on:
- Putting health over anti-ageing: Prioritise hydration, protection, and nourishment to enhance the skin’s natural resilience and vibrancy.
- Embracing change: Appreciate the journey your skin has been on and celebrate the character reflected in every wrinkle and line, instead of seeing them as imperfections.
- Taking a holistic approach to skincare: Adopt healthy habits, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep, to benefit your skin from the inside out.
- Practising mindful skincare: Take the time to understand what your skin needs and choose your skincare products accordingly.
- Protecting your skin from environmental stressors: Use SPF, antioxidants, and protective clothing to shield your skin from UV rays, pollution, and other external aggressors.
8 skincare tips for healthy ageing skin
You know how to approach skincare with a positive ageing mindset, but what exactly should you do to keep it healthy and resilient? Here are our tips:
1. Moisturise
Healthy skin is hydrated skin, so be sure to incorporate a high-quality face cream into your daily routine. Bonus points if it includes a powerful humectant like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
2. Protect your skin from sun damage
Wear SPF every day, even if you’re just heading out of the house quickly or if it doesn’t look that sunny outside.
3. Use a gentle cleanser
A gentle cleanser will remove impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Just make sure it doesn’t have any harsh ingredients that can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to dryness and irritation – especially if you have sensitive skin.
4. Opt for nourishing ingredients
Look for nourishing ingredients that support positive ageing – like vitamin C to boost collagen and protect the skin from free radicals, retinoids to increase the rate of skin cell turnover, and niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier.
5. Exfoliate once or twice a week
Exfoliating will remove dead skin cells and stimulate skin renewal. Be careful not to over-exfoliate though, as doing so can dry out your skin and strip it of its protective layer – the opposite of what you want.
6. Drink plenty of water
This will help your skin perform its barrier function and reduce your chances of developing unwanted skin conditions.
7. Eat a balanced diet
Include foods that are rich in fibre, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, as well as hunter-gatherer foods like nuts, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens.
8. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night
While you rest, your body can focus on repairing and restoring itself. If you get less sleep, your body doesn’t have as much time to go through these processes, which will impact your skin health.
