Aging skin

Skin ageing runs on two overlapping tracks. Intrinsic ageing is the programmed part: collagen and elastin production slows, cell turnover takes longer, lipid and oil output shifts, and skin gradually becomes thinner, drier and less springy. Extrinsic ageing is what the environment adds on top — chiefly ultraviolet exposure, plus pollution, smoking, poor sleep and repeated mechanical stress.

The distinction matters because the extrinsic share is the part a routine can realistically influence. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is the most consistently recommended step, supported by antioxidants in the morning, a retinoid at night if your skin tolerates one, and moisturisers combining humectants, emollients and barrier lipids so the skin stays comfortable rather than tight.

Cosmetic products work on how skin looks and feels; they do not stop or reverse ageing, and visible change builds slowly over months. Retinoids are not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding, often irritate at first and can increase sun sensitivity, so introduce them gradually and patch test. For medical concerns or in-clinic treatments, talk to a dermatologist.