As your skin gets older, the collagen and elastin fibers that keep it firm and supple begin to weaken. A loosening of the skin along with the inevitable effects of gravity can lead to sagging skin and wrinkles by the time a woman enters her 50s. The loss of estrogen that occurs during menopause can also contribute to skin droopiness. Certain skin care products may help improve the appearance of skin in women over 50.
Exfoliants
Exfoliating products can help remove dead skin cells and have a rejuvenating effect on older skin. Exfoliants stimulate collagen production, which can give skin a smoother look while softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, according to Yourplasticsurgeryguide.com.
Exfoliating products often include alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and poly hydroxy acids. Hydroxy acids are synthetic varieties of acids obtained from sugar-containing fruits. Hydroxy acids can make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage, so its important to wear sunscreen while using these exfoliating products.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers are especially important for women over 50. They can improve skin tone and texture and temporarily plump up the skin. A number of moisturizers contain a combination of humectants, non-oily substances that help keep skin moist, and emollients that promote soft skin.
Retinoic Acid
Topical retinoic acid may improve the surface texture of the skin, reduce pigmentation irregularities and fuel collagen production when applied daily for several months, claims the American Academy of Dermatology.
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A. They include prescription-only tretinoin (Renova, Retin-A). Tretinoin is the only medication approved by the FDA to help reverse some of the effects of sun damage.
Retinol
Retinol is a vitamin A compound that is available over-the-counter in anti-aging creams and lotions. Since retinol is a less potent version of prescription-strength retinoids, the anti-aging results are often less noticeable and don't last as long.
Sunscreen
Spending too much time in the sun without proper protection accelerates the aging process and is the main cause of premature wrinkles, according to the Mayo Clinic. The daily use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of at least 30, limiting sun exposure during the midday hours when its rays are the strongest and wearing protective clothing can help protect your skin from damage.
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