Collagen not only gets lost as you age, your skin also slows down its reproduction of it. Collagen can also become damaged by sun exposure and even facial movements, according to dermatologist Diane Berson, M.D on the Elle magazine website. However, rather than succumbing to sagging skin, you can give your face back its bounce by improving its ability to produce collagen and rebuilding the amount you have lost. Treat your face with care by using anti-aging products designed to smooth, firm and plump up your skin. Give it daily protection from harmful environmental aggressors and it will soon appear more vibrant and youthful.
Step 1
Wash your face with a creamy, nourishing cleanser that will remove dirt, oil, makeup and dead cells that can clog your pores. This will not only rid your skin of dulling residue, it will also help subsequent products absorb more thoroughly, according to the More magazine website. Wet your face and hands and massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse and pat dry.
Step 2
Put on a moisturizer that contains both antioxidants and an SPF of 15 or higher. Keeping your skin hydrated helps it to better repair itself and ward off future damage, and antioxidants help fight off the sun's free radicals. According to both the Allure and More magazine websites, sun exposure can ruin collagen and make it difficult for your skin to produce more. Use a sunscreen that promises to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Slather the product all over your face, neck and chest. Put on more as the day goes on, especially if you are outside.
Step 3
Cleanse your face at night with the nourishing face wash you used in the morning to remove your makeup and your skin's accumulation of grime. Dry off, and then smooth on an anti-aging cream that contains retinol or peptides. Retinol helps your skin shed its outer layers and also rebuilds lost collagen. The Elle magazine website notes that peptides encourage the production of collagen as well. Apply a small amount of the product you choose, rub it in gently, and wait a few minutes before moving on to the next step.
Step 4
Smooth on a heavy, nighttime moisturizer. Women over 40 are prone to drier skin than younger women; this can lead to a slowing down in the collagen renewal process. The More magazine website recommends keeping your skin hydrated by applying a rich moisturizer each night and also suggests looking for a product that contains repairing lipids if you have extremely dry or sensitive skin. Massage the cream onto your face and neck before you go to bed.
Things You'll Need
- Creamy facial cleanser
- Moisturizer with SPF and antioxidants
- Retinol or peptide cream
- Rich, nighttime moisturizer
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