My Skincare Routine ~ Part 3

In the past I’ve taken a very relaxed, scatter-shot approach to my skincare. I could back then… I was still young! But now that I’m 50, I’ve decided it’s time to get serious and research anti-aging ingredients so I can target my skin’s particular needs.

I talked to my dermatologist and did a lot of reading, and what I found is that there are really only a handful of ingredients that have been proven to work against the visible signs of aging such as dark spots, fine lines, and declining firmness. And that deep wrinkles and saggy skin can’t be fixed with topical creams or serums, for those you need the help of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon wielding a needle, laser, or scalpel.

The ingredients that are scientifically proven to be effective are:

• Tretinoin/(Retin-A) – build collagen, exfoliate, reduce fine lines, improve clarity, lighten surface pigmentation.
• Vitamin C – exfoliate, improve clarity, lighten surface pigmentation
• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (Glycolic) – exfoliate

So, I decided to add a Retin-A cream and a Vitamin C serum into my skincare routine (3 exfoliators seems like too many). Here’ what I do morning and night to “anti-age” my skin:

Morning:

Wash: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser* – this non-foaming cleanser thoroughly cleans skin without stripping the natural moisture barrier

Treat: Timeless C+E Ferulic Serum* – Vitamin C is an unstable molecule that degrades when exposed to air and sunlight, the addition of E Ferulic keeps C stable longer and makes it more effective in communicating with skin cells. Apply 1-2 drops to face, neck, chest and backs of hands, avoiding the eyes. Must be used with sunblock!!

Moisturize: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream* – A thick moisturizing cream comparable to Creme de la Mer, but costs much less.

Protect: Neutrogena UltraSheer Liquid* daily sunblock SPF 70 – apply this silky sunblock to face,  neck, chest and hands. So smooth you can skip a face primer.

Evening:

Wash: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser* + Clarisonic Mia 2 Sonic Brush – remove all makeup and thoroughly clean pores with this duo.

Treat Eyes: Roc Multi-Correction Eye Treatment – this cream contains retinol to help reduce fine lines around the eyes. Apply below and on lids.

Moisturize: CeraVe PM Face Moisturizer* – apply a thin film of this hydrating moisturizer all over face and neck.

Treat: Tretinoin 0.05% Cream (prescription) – wait 15-20 minutes after washing face to apply a tiny pea sized amount to face avoiding the eyes, under eyes, corners of nose and mouth.

* There are no up-front paid product placements in this video. It contains my honest opinion about the products shown. There may be an affiliate link (marked with an *) for one or more products featured in this post which means that if you click the link and buy something, I receive a commission for the sale, but it doesn’t cost you anything extra. You are free to use the link or not as you choose.