In terms of what to avoid, Dr. Camp says to steer clear of any ingredients that could irritate dry or sensitive skin. “These include fragrances, dyes, and some preservatives such as formaldehyde-releasing agents and methylisothiazolinone (MIT),” he says. “You should also know the difference between fragrance-free, which means the product contains no fragrance or perfumes, and unscented, which means that the product may contain fragrances to mask an odor.”
What is a good skin routine for mature skin?
According to Dr. Camp, a good daytime skincare routine for mature skin includes a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and sunscreen. “Products with active ingredients like antioxidants, hydrating serums, and prescription retinoids, can be added in one at a time to allow the skin to adapt to each new product,” he says. It’s also helpful to exfoliate with alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, since these help reveal healthy skin underneath.
At night, Dr. Camp suggests adding in a multitasking cream. “Night creams for mature skin should work double duty,” he says. “They should provide intense hydration while targeting anti-aging concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.” An eye cream can also be added to a nighttime regime. “Eye creams that contain vitamin C or retinol can improve the appearance of crepey skin by improving collagen production and improving the firmness of the skin,” he says.
What do dermatologists recommend for mature skin care?
Dr. Khalifian says that pairing topical products with in-office treatments like Sculptra, Radiesse, microneedling or laser resurfacing can further enhance collagen renewal. Lifestyle comes into play, too.
“Sun exposure and smoking are well known to accelerate aging changes to the skin, but diet, stress, and other internal and external factors often play a role as well,” says Dr. Mraz. “Our skin is a reflection of our overall health, and it is important to take care of it with good lifestyle habits such as adequate sleep, a good, nutrient-rich, minimally processed diet, adequate but not too much exercise, avoiding smoking, minimizing alcohol, and participating in regular positive social connections with others. Practices that are good for your health are good for your most visible organ.”
Meet the experts
- Valerie Aparovich, a biochemist, certified cosmetologist-aesthetician, and science team lead at OnSkin, based in Miami, Florida
- Marianna Blyumin-Karasik, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder of Precision Skin & Body Institute based in Davie, Florida
- Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Midtown, New York, and Commack and Hampton Bays, Long Island
- Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Patrick Davis, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon at Davis Facial Plastics in Beverly Hills, California
- Kristin Gunn, an aesthetician based in Austin, Texas, and founder of Beaux MedSpa
- Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology based in Birmingham, Alabama
- Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Circle in New York City
- Saami Khalifian, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist at SOM Aesthetics in Encinitas, California
- Brandon Kirsch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Naples, Florida and Musely’s chief science officer
- Serena Mraz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Vallejo, California
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We are particularly discerning when writing about skin-care devices. This is because of the increased risks and, in many cases, the high price points, that accompany at-home dermatological tools and devices.