Anti-ageing skincare routine: Include vitamin C, retinol, sunscreen to keep your skin firm and hydrated

Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a complete anti-ageing skincare routine.

Morning routine: Focus on protection and hydration

Whether are you stepping out of the house for work, to run errands or staying home, following a simple morning skincare routine is important to protect your skin from environmental damage and keeps it hydrated.

Step 1: Cleanse

Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove dirt and oils that tend to accumulate as you sleep. Cleansers that have ingredients like glycerine or hyaluronic acid can help prevent dryness and you wake up with plump, more hydrated skin.

Step 2: Apply an antioxidant serum

Face serums with vitamin C can protect your skin from UV damage and pollution. Vitamin C is also known to brighten the skin and even out skin tone, as also confirmed by study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Step 3: Moisturise

As you age, use lightweight moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, or ceramides. These ingredients plump the skin, lock in hydration, and nourish it throughout the day.

Also read | Anti-ageing: Top 10 foods to reverse ageing, reduce wrinkles, increase skin firmness, and more

Step 4: Sunscreen

Using sunscreen every day reduces skin ageing that can occur due to radiation, according to research in Dermatologic Surgery. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to prevent your skin from ageing prematurely, and reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

Evening routine: Repair and regenerate overnight

At night, your skin undergoes repair and regeneration, making this the ideal time for treatments that target signs of ageing.

Step 1: Double cleanse (if needed)

Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to clean the skin thoroughly without stripping it.

Step 2: Use a toner or essence

A hydrating or exfoliating toner preps your skin for better absorption of serums. Ingredients like lactic acid or glycolic acid help gently exfoliate, while rose water or aloe vera soothes and hydrates.

Step 3: Target with treatment serums

Focus on specific anti-ageing concerns:

Fine lines and wrinkles: Use a retinol or bakuchiol serum to stimulate collagen production.

Dark spots: Apply serums with niacinamide or tranexamic acid to brighten and even out pigmentation.

Dehydration: Opt for serums with hyaluronic acid or peptides to boost moisture and elasticity.

Also read | Best home remedies to stop signs of ageing on skin

Step 4: Apply an eye cream

Gently dab an anti-ageing eye cream around the eye area to reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Look for ingredients like caffeine, peptides, and vitamin C for targeted benefits.

Step 5: Moisturise

Use a richer, nourishing night cream with ingredients like ceramides, squalane, or shea butter to lock in hydration and support overnight repair.

Step 6: Introduce retinol (1–2 times a week)

Retinol is a gold-standard anti-ageing ingredient that boosts collagen production and improves skin texture. A study in Clinical Interventions in Aging found retinol to be highly effective in reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture. Start slow to avoid irritation, using it 1–2 times a week initially. Always follow with a moisturiser and use sunscreen the next morning.

Weekly treatments: Exfoliate and mask

Adding weekly treatments to your routine gives your skin an extra boost.

Exfoliate

Use a gentle exfoliant with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid as they are proven to improve skin texture and tone, according to research published in Dermatology Research and Practice. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid also help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can cause dryness or sensitivity.

Apply a face mask

Target your concerns with specific masks:

For hydration: Use sheet masks with hyaluronic acid.

For firmness: Try masks with peptides or collagen for improved elasticity.

Signs your routine is working

With consistency and patience, you’ll begin to notice improvements in your skin:

Better hydration and a plump appearance.

Reduced visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.

Brighter and more even-toned skin.

A stronger, healthier skin barrier that feels smooth and nourished.

By following this anti-ageing skincare routine and incorporating science-backed ingredients, you can slow down the signs of ageing and enjoy radiant, youthful-looking skin for years to come. Start small, stay consistent, and give your skin the care it deserves.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.