How to take care of your skin at 50 years old?

Aging is associated with numerous structural and functional changes in the skin that result in increased vulnerability. In addition to the natural decrease in cell regeneration and fibroblast activity, which are responsible for the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, the skin of women in their 50s is affected by menopause. This physiological process marks the cessation of estrogen and progesterone hormonal activity, hormones that regulate the expression of insulin-like growth factors and increase fibroblast activity. Progesterone also acts on the sebaceous glands and promotes sebum production. Taken together, these various effects can lead to significant skin dryness, intensified by sun exposure.

• Do not neglect the sunscreen.

  In addition to having a drying effect and increasing the risk of skin cancer, the sun is one of the primary causes of skin aging. Its mechanisms of action are numerous and result at the macroscopic level in a loss of skin firmness, the appearance of brown spots, and vascular disorders. However, the effects of UV can be countered by consistently applying a sunscreen before going outside.

  A year-long study by SOUTHALL involving 32 subjects between the ages of 40 and 55 demonstrated that daily use of SPF 30 sunscreen significantly improves all skin parameters related to aging. During the trial, pigmentation spots were reduced by 50%, crow's feet wrinkles by 25%, and skin texture was improved by 40%.

• Continue to hydrate your skin.

  Taking care of your skin during your fifties also means providing it with proper hydration. Weakened by the decrease in hyaluronic acid and sebum levels, the skin requires hydrating and nourishing agents to rebuild its hydrolipidic film and horny layer. Therefore, at the age of 50, it is recommended to adapt your skincare routine and apply a rich moisturizing cream once or twice a day.

  This good habit protects the skin from external aggressions and limits water loss, as demonstrated by a recent study. Conducted with volunteers aged between 50 and 60, it focused on the effect of a treatment containing hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and sweet almond oil. After 4 weeks of daily use, the average hydration level of the participants had increased by 33%, making the skin more supple and soft.

• Investing in firming active ingredients.

  On the other hand, the use of retinol or bakuchiol, which are firming agents, and α-hydroxyacids (AHA), exfoliants that can improve pigmentation, is beneficial for mature skin. Indeed, by accelerating cell renewal, which slows down with age, and by stimulating the synthesis of collagen by fibroblasts, these molecules help to reduce the appearance of established wrinkles and make the skin firmer. Their effectiveness has been demonstrated by several studies.

  A recent clinical trial was conducted with 41 women aged between 35 and 55 years. Over a period of 12 weeks, the participants applied a formulation containing 0.1% retinol, every other day for the first two weeks, then daily for the subsequent ten weeks. The analysis of facial wrinkles revealed a significant reduction in their visibility after the treatment, with a decrease of 63.7% in the cheek area and 38.7% around the eyes.

  Note : To minimize the risk of skin irritation, it is advised not to apply different products containing AHA (glycolic acid, lactic acid...) and/or retinoids (retinol, retinol esters...) at the same time.

• Use of antioxidants.

  Finally, to take care of one's skin at 50, it is beneficial not to overlook the antioxidants. By neutralizing free radicals, these molecules prevent them from damaging lipid membranes, DNA, and protein fibers. Thus, antioxidants help to delay and combat photoaging, in synergy with firming active ingredients.

  Indeed, this is what a recent study led by NELSON and his team has demonstrated. For 12 weeks, 21 individuals aged between 40 and 65 years (average age: 56 years) applied a serum containing pyrroloquinoline quinone, an antioxidant, twice daily, and a cream containing a retinoid once daily. Following this treatment, a 55% improvement in skin texture, an 18% reduction in the visibility of wrinkles, a 40% decrease in redness, and a 28% reduction in pigmentation were observed.

To take care of your skin at 50, it is necessary to minimize photodamage as much as possible by applying daily sun protection and antioxidants. It is also recommended to hydrate it and use firming active ingredients.