10 Tips to Help You Get the Best Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine

Our skin tells a story and as we grow older, it begins to go through many changes, such as losing its elasticity and developing fine lines and wrinkles. While there’s no way to freeze time, forming a solid, anti-aging skin care routine can certainly help to prolong visible signs of aging and improve the appearance of different skin concerns. Let us note that there’s nothing wrong with aging; but if you want to equip your skin care routine with products that can help to delay that process, that’s totally okay, too. 

Getting a head start and filling your routine with potent, skin-loving ingredients (like niacinamide, retinol and hyaluronic acid) can help maintain a youthful and radiant-looking complexion. If you’re ready to make a change to your routine, read on for the best skin care products for anti-aging results, plus tips to improve your anti-aging skin care regimen. 

What Is the Key Ingredient for Anti-Aging?

Before starting an anti-aging skin care routine, be sure to keep an eye out for these six anti-aging ingredients in your favorite products.

1. Retinol

Retinol is a green flag ingredient that many look for in their skin care products, especially when it pertains to anti-aging. According to Harvard Health, this vitamin A derivative is used to help repair sun damage and reduce fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. It’s available over the counter or by prescription.

2. Vitamin C

The Cleveland Clinic reports that vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can protect the skin from free radicals (caused by UV radiation and air pollution) and sun damage. It can also help to brighten the skin and minimize visible signs of aging, like fine lines. 

3. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) 

Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic and citric acid are used to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. Harvard Health reports that over time, regular use of AHAs may improve fine lines, skin yellowing, blotchiness and dark spots.

4. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that’s naturally found in your skin’s sebum (oil). It creates a l barrier that keeps the skin soft and also helps it to retain moisture, per the Cleveland Clinic. 

5. Collagen

Collagen is a protein that makes skin cells strong and elastic. Adding collagen-infused skincare and supplements to your skin care routine can help keep the skin from sagging and provide a plump, youthful look, according to Cedars Sinai. 

6. Niacinamide 

As mentioned by the Cleveland Clinic, niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is found in many skin care products to help brighten the skin, prevent visible signs of aging and fade dark spots. Furthermore, niacinamide can also help reduce skin redness and minimize pore size. 

10 Anti-Aging Skin Care Tips

Add these ten anti-aging skin care tips to your routine to address visible signs of aging and promote hydration.

1. Wash With a Cream Cleanser

Regardless of your age, skin type or skin concerns, daily cleansing is a must. If you have visibly aging skin, reach for a nourishing cream cleanser rather than a foaming one since those tend to be harsh on the skin and dry it out. As skin matures, it loses moisture, nutrients and natural oils, resulting in skin that looks — and feels — dry. A cream cleanser can replenish moisture to the surface of the skin without leaving it feeling tight and stripped after use.

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser is formulated to gently remove all traces of makeup without over-drying the skin. Every morning and evening, lather the cleanser in wet hands and gently massage it onto the skin. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.

2. Exfoliate Weekly

There are a plethora of benefits that come with routine exfoliation. Those include removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores and brightening the skin, which is why it’s such a vital part of any anti-aging skin care routine.

One to three times a week, swap out your cream cleanser for a gentle exfoliating cleanser, such as the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Brightening Daily Scrub Cleanser. This scrub uses gentle micro-pearls and glycolic acid to polish away dead skin cells for a radiant-looking complexion. Pay attention to how your skin responds after using it to determine the frequency that works best for you.

3. Apply a Facial Serum

Once you’ve cleansed your skin, you’re ready to apply a face serum that can address any skin concerns you may have. Find the right one for routine, below: 

L'Oréal Paris Age Perfect Skin Care Cell Renewal Anti-Aging Midnight Serum

As you age, cell regeneration slows down, causing a decrease in your skin’s overall vitality and radiance. With continued use over time, this luxurious serum helps skin to look and feel smoother, firmer, better hydrated and visibly refreshed. For best results, pat the serum onto clean skin morning and night. Follow up with the corresponding L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Skin Care Cell Renewal Midnight Cream, Antioxidants. 

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 12% Pure Vitamin C + E + Salicylic Acid Serum

This targeted antioxidant serum blends pure vitamin C with vitamin E to boost radiance and skin brightness, as well as neutralize free radicals that can lead to visible signs of aging, such as fine lines and dark spots. Apply it to clean skin in the morning and evening before layering on moisturizer.

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

As skin matures, it’s gradually depleted of essential nutrients and sebum, which results in dryness. Not to mention, years of environmental damage (like the sun’s harmful UV rays) can cause the skin to look dull, dry and textured. 

This hyaluronic acid serum helps replenish the skin’s protective barrier while it plumps the skin and aids in moisture retention. Continued use results in a healthy-looking, hydrated complexion with more glow, bounce and less visible fine lines and wrinkles. Apply it on clean skin morning and night before moisturizing. 

L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal 12% [Niacinamide + Amino Sulfonic + Ferulic Acid] Dark Spot Serum

Dark spots are a visible (and annoying) sign of aging that many people experience. Whether you’re trying to fade post-acne scars or make up for the times when you weren’t so great at applying sunscreen, reach for this niacinamide serum which aims to fade dark spots and even skin tone. With continued use overtime, the skin appears refreshed, luminous and healthy-looking. Apply three to four drops to clean skin and follow up with moisturizer.

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum, 0.3% Pure Retinol

There’s no doubt that retinol is great for prolonging visible signs of aging, but it can feel like a pretty intimidating product to use, especially when you hear of the irritation that can sometimes come with using it. This potent night serum is formulated with soothing ingredients, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, to balance out the drying effects of retinol. With consistent use, it visibly reduces wrinkles, smooths skin texture and boosts radiance. Apply two to three drops to dry skin and build up use each week as your skin can tolerate it.  

4. Use a Targeted Eye Cream

In case you didn’t know, the delicate skin under your eyes needs attention regardless of your age. Choose a formula that can address the visible signs of aging you see around your eyes — and nourishing vitamin E. Morning and night, use your ring finfer to massage the formula gently around the eye area until it’s thoroughly absorbed.

5. Moisturize With Your Skin Type in Mind

Let it be known that all skin types need moisture. Mature skin tends to be dry, which means a rich, hydrating moisturizer can really help improve the way your skin looks and feels. The L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Skin Care Cell Renewal Midnight Cream, Antioxidants has a nourishing, soufflè-like texture that works to repair the skin barrier while you sleep. With consistent use over time, expect fewer wrinkles, firmer skin and improved radiance. 

If you have mature skin that’s dry, try the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Moisturizer for Mature, Dull Skin. Infused with imperial peony extracts and LHA (lipohydroxy acid, an exfoliant) to strengthen the skin barrier and gently exfoliate dull, sallow skin, this lightweight cream helps bring back the skin’s natural rosy look that can diminish with age. 

6. Try a Facial Oil

Another sign of aging skin is when natural oil production starts to decrease. Daily exposure to harmful UV rays further compromises the skin’s ability to retain moisture, which can leave it looking dehydrated and lackluster. That’s where facial oil comes into play: You can apply it after face cream to help lock in moisture for added skin nourishment. 

7. Use SPF Every Single Day

The hard truth is that sunscreen is never not going to be important. But, this especially rings true when you’re putting together an anti-aging skin care routine. As the Cleveland Clinic reports, UVA and UVB rays from the sun may result in skin damage that can lead to premature signs of aging, like dullness, wrinkling and age spots.

The L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion contains broad-spectrum UVA and UVB filters to protect against the sun’s rays that contribute to aging and burning. The lightweight formula is suitable for all skin types, and it won’t leave visible residue on any skin tone. Apply it every morning after moisturizer and before makeup. 

8. Remove Makeup Gently

Let’s skip to the end of the day: Before you’re ready to get some beauty sleep, you’ll need to remove your makeup. To avoid the clogged pores that snoozing in makeup can bring, reach for a makeup wipe, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Radiant Smoothing Wet Cleansing Towelettes, before bed. Gently swipe it all over your complexion to remove makeup before washing your face with a cream cleanser. 

9. Reach for a Wrinkle Cream at Night

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sleep gives your body time to refresh and renew itself. Take advantage of that time and apply a wrinkle-fighting night cream before you head to bed. We recommend choosing from the L’Oréal Paris Wrinkle Expert moisturizer line, which has products grouped by age. These anti-wrinkle face creams help to visibly reduce signs of aging, including sagging skin, dryness, wrinkles and more.

10. Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase 

While we’re on the subject of beauty sleep, consider how your bedtime rituals can also impact your anti-aging routine. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can make a big difference for your skin because the soft, slinky material is gentler than cotton or polyester. It won’t tug or rub on the skin, which can worsen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, per The Aesthetic Surgery Journal.

5 Face Tools to Use in Your Anti-Aging Routine

Skin care tools can also make a difference when it comes to anti-aging because they can help firm and lift the skin on your face. Plus, they often feel super relaxing and make for a great self-care moment. Below, discover five facial tools to complement your anti-aging routine.

1. Jade Roller

A jade roller is a handheld facial massage tool that’s usually composed of two long jade stones. Use it to massage your face, (moving outwards) to stimulate blood flow to the area and help spread your skin care products more evenly. 

2. Gua Sha

Gua sha is a massage technique that originated in East Asia, and it includes a gua sha stone that is gently scraped across the skin to promote lymphatic drainage. Use the flat tool to massage your face and neck in long, outward and upward strokes to minimize skin puffiness and increase blood flow, per the Cleveland Clinic.

3. Microcurrent Device

Handheld microcurrent devices are used to stimulate facial muscles to reduce wrinkles and give your skin a lifted appearance by delivering tiny currents of electricity to the skin. Apply a conductive gel or primer, then move the microcurrent device over the skin, adhering to the tool’s directions closely.

4. Dermaplaning  

Dermaplaning painlessly removes peach fuzz and the top layer of dead skin to unveil a fresh, radiant layer of skin.To try dermaplaning at home, use the handheld shaving tool in gentle, short strokes to exfoliate your skin. Be sure to consult with your dermatologist prior to avoid hurting yourself or causing any damage to the skin.

5. Facial Cleaning Brush 

Use a facial cleansing brush to lightly exfoliate and thoroughly cleanse your skin of dirt, oils and makeup. When you use a tool like this, just remember to change out the brush’s head according to your device’s instructions.

An Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine for Your 20s

Maintaining a good skin care routine means you have to make adjustments some times. The things that your skin needs in your 20s will likely look a lot different from what your skin needs in your 40s. Certain steps will stay the same, like cleansing first and applying SPF last, but your skin concerns and the serums to use to target them will likely change. Follow these age-tailored skin care routines to create a solid anti-aging routine at any age.

1. Cleanse

Every skin care routine should start with cleanser. Cleansing is so necessary and important because it gets rid of dirt, oil and makeup on your skin to create a clean canvas for your facial serums and skin care.

2. Spot Treat

Use a spot treatment or facial serum to target specific skin concerns you may have, whether that be dullness, clogged pores or dark spots. A niacinamide serum can be an especially effective spot treatment because it fades dark marks and is often well-tolerated by the skin, per the National Center for Biotechnology Information. 

3. Use Eye Cream

Since the skin around your eyes is so delicate (and ages quicker than the rest of your face), you can benefit from using an eye cream or serum in your 20s. Apply the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid + 1% Caffeine Eye Serum to your under-eyes with the roller ball applicator and use your ringer finger to gently tap it in. This eye serum includes hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump, and caffeine to reduce the appearance of under-eye bags, puffiness and dark circles.

4. Moisturize

One could make the argument that every step of your skin care routine is equally important, and it would be very valid. We preach the importance of cleansing, but moisturizer is just as impactful in your routine. All skin types need to be moisturized after cleansing to ensure a healthy appearance and a strong moisture barrier.

If you avoid moisturizer with the notion that your skin is already “oily enough,” it may make your skin even oilier because it will produce more oils to counteract the lack of moisture. Overall, it’s just not a good idea to ever skip moisturizer, and that goes for skin care in your 20s and well into your 60s, 70s and beyond.

5. Apply SPF

Sunscreen should always be applied as the last step of your morning skin care routine (you can skip at night), after moisturizer and before makeup. The aforementioned L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion has a lightweight texture that serves as a great primer for makeup. 

An Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine for Your 30s

The skin care routine you follow in your 20s shouldn’t look too different once you reach your 30s. Here’s an easy, anti-aging skin care routine to follow. 

1. Cleanse

Your cleanser of choice can stay the same as you reach your 30s — just make sure to continue washing your face twice a day. 

2. Exfoliate

The NCBI reports that cell turnover slows down as you age. To address this, use an exfoliating serum or toner to remove dead skin cells and banish a dull, lackluster complexion. The L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Peeling Toner is a chemical exfoliant that contains glycolic acid to smooth texture and reveal glowing skin. At night, apply some to your palms and gently pat it into the skin before applying moisturizer.

3. Moisturize 

A moisturizer with the anti-aging ingredient retinol will help decrease the appearance of fine lines and improve skin tone and texture. Try the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Pressed Night Moisturizer with Retinol + Niacinamide to hydrate your skin in your 30s. The potent formula fights signs of aging while counteracting the potential drying effects of retinol with the help of soothing ingredients, like glycerin. Apply one pump of the moisturizer to your face, and one pump to your neck and décolleté. 

4. Apply Eye Cream

Eye cream continues to be important as you age so make sure you’re applying it correctly. For starters, focus on applying it under the eyes all the way to the temple, and tap in any excess product with your fingers. Wait five minutes to allow the eye cream to absorb before you moisturize.

5. Apply SPF

Sunscreen should be a staple in your routine by now, but if it isn’t, there’s no time like the present to start wearing it. Apply it every day — even in the winter, and even on the days when you don’t go outside.

An Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine for Your 40s

You may notice your skin getting drier as you age, so an anti-aging skin care routine in your 40s is all about replenishing moisture. Here’s how it should look.

1. Cleanse

If you’re not already using a hydrating cleanser, now is the time to start. The L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Skin Care Nourishing Cream Cleanser uses replenishing oils to cleanse the skin in a gentle yet effective way that removes all traces of makeup. 

2. Use a Hydrating Serum

To make sure your skin is as nourished as can be, add a hydrating serum to your anti-aging routine. Look for formulas with hyaluronic acid, as it builds upon your skin’s natural moisture to plump and moisturize.

3. Eye Cream 

Eye cream will continue to hydrate and help with the appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet. In your 40s, you can start applying eye cream as part of your morning and nighttime routines. 

4. Moisturize

As we mentioned before, moisturizer is just as important as ever. Reach for a heavier, thicker moisturizer, like the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Skin Care Cell Renewal Midnight Cream, Antioxidants, especially during dry seasons like the winter time.

5. Apply SPF

SPF remains of paramount importance, and it will help you avoid the aging effects of sun damage, which include sun spots, wrinkles and loose, sagging skin.

Next: How to Use Retinol: Should Retinol Come Before or After Moisturizer?

Photographer: Nelson Huang, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Producer: Becca Solovay, Beauty Content Director: Shalwah Evans, Visual Designer: Sarah Duvivier, Wardrobe Stylist: Alexis Badiyi, Wardrobe Assistant: Jazmine Alzado, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Akihisa Yamaguchi, Digi Tech: Jacky Jiang, Photo Assistant: Tyler Andrews, Model: Erin Williams