Anti-Ageing Skincare Explained Clearly

Ageing begins in the mid-20s as collagen declines
UV damage drives up to 80% of facial ageing
Fine lines appear by 30, wrinkles by 40s, fragility by 70s
Monderma’s anti-ageing cream with tretinoin boosts collagen
Protect with SPF 30+, retinoids, nutrition, and exercise

Skin ageing starts earlier than most expect, often in the mid-20s, and gradually progresses over time. While the process is natural, environmental and lifestyle factors can accelerate visible signs. Understanding these causes helps guide the best anti-ageing skincare choices, from daily sunscreen to prescription creams.

This guide explains what causes skin ageing, how to recognise its signs, and which evidence-based solutions may help improve texture, firmness, and tone.

How And Why We Experience Ageing Skin

Ageing skin results from a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic ageing refers to natural biological changes that begin in the mid-20s, when collagen and elastin production decline by about 1% each year [1]. Extrinsic ageing comes from external influences such as sunlight, pollution, and free radicals.

A large JAMA Dermatology study found that UV exposure accounted for around 80% of visible facial ageing in participants [2]. Over time, the skin becomes thinner, less elastic, and slower to regenerate. Hormonal changes and lifestyle habits also contribute, while lighter skin tones tend to show wrinkles earlier and darker tones more often develop uneven pigmentation [4,8].

Subtypes Of Ageing Skin

Subtype	Description	Common Areas
Intrinsic Ageing	Natural, biologically driven changes	Whole body
Extrinsic Ageing	UV-induced or environmental ageing	Face, neck, arms, legs

Table 1: Subtypes of ageing skin and commonly affected areas

Intrinsic ageing occurs in everyone, but genetics influence its pace. Extrinsic ageing varies more widely and is largely preventable. Sun-exposed areas typically show deeper wrinkles and more discolouration than protected skin [2,6].

What Causes Ageing Skin

The main driver of visible ageing is collagen loss. From the mid-20s, collagen and elastin production slow, reducing firmness and hydration [3]. Hormonal shifts, especially decreased oestrogen, further impact skin strength and moisture [8].

UV radiation, free radicals, smoking, and high-sugar diets accelerate this decline. Studies show that ultraviolet light alone causes up to 80% of premature skin ageing [2,9]. Lifestyle factors like smoking also stiffen collagen fibres and reduce elasticity [10].

How To Spot Premature Ageing

Early signs of ageing often appear around the late 20s, progressing with each decade.

Age	Signs	Typical Features
25–30	Early	Fine lines, mild collagen loss
40s	Moderate	Wrinkles, reduced elasticity
70+	Advanced	Fragile, thin skin with deep folds

Table 2: Age-related signs and typical features of premature ageing

By assessing photos or video, Monderma’s healthcare professionals can evaluate areas such as the face and neck, determining severity and providing tailored guidance.

Evidence-Based Treatments For Ageing Skin

Clinical research supports the use of topical retinoids, antioxidants, and sunscreen for maintaining youthful skin [12]. For mild cases, over-the-counter products may help. In more advanced cases, prescription-strength formulations offer greater impact.

Monderma’s personalised anti-ageing cream contains tretinoin, a well-studied retinoid shown to increase collagen and smooth fine lines. The treatment can be integrated easily into an existing routine to target wrinkles, uneven tone, and photoaged skin.

Monderma’s Personalised Custom Formula For Fighting Ageing Skin

Ingredient	Strength	Description	Effect On Ageing Skin
Adapalene	0.1–0.3%	Third-generation retinoid derived from vitamin A	Boosts cell turnover and smooths fine lines
Azelaic Acid	3–20%	Anti-inflammatory compound derived from yeast	Reduces pigmentation and refines texture
Hydroquinone	2–4%	Skin-lightening agent targeting melanin	Fades age spots and evens tone
Niacinamide	2–4%	Vitamin B3 with antioxidant action	Strengthens barrier and supports elasticity
Tretinoin	0.1–1%	Prescription retinoid	Increases collagen, reducing wrinkles and firmness loss [11,16]

Table 3: Key active ingredients in Monderma’s custom anti-ageing formula

Common Complications

Without treatment, fine lines deepen and skin thins, making it prone to dryness and slower healing [14]. Sun damage can also cause persistent hyperpigmentation, which becomes harder to treat with age [15]. Fragile blood vessels may increase the risk of redness or rosacea flare-ups.

Practical Tips For Preventing Skin Ageing

Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day, even in winter [13,17].
Apply a retinoid or antioxidant serum at night to promote renewal [16].
Eat a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables.
Limit alcohol, sugar, and smoking.
Exercise regularly and aim for sufficient sleep.

Consistent, gentle care helps maintain firmness and hydration, while sun protection remains the single most effective anti-ageing measure.

Conclusion

Ageing skin reflects both natural biology and environmental exposure. While no treatment can stop the process, evidence-based skincare and lifestyle choices can slow it significantly.

Monderma’s personalised formulations combine prescription retinoids and antioxidants to help improve firmness, texture, and tone. Begin with a free online consultation to explore a tailored anti-ageing routine designed for your skin.

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.

Bibliography

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