Skin Care and Aging

As we get older, our skin changes. So the same moisturizer we used at 20, may not get the job done at 50.

Every decade seems to bring its own challenges when it comes to our skin. In our twenties - it's acne. In our thirties - sun damage. By our forties and fifties, it's wrinkles, and everything else.

So we asked an expert for some tips on how to take care of your skin as you age.

At Jazmin Spa, they're in the business of making you feel good about the skin you're in. But that doesn't mean these women don't have concerns about their skin.

"The biggest thing is just getting extractions. Just things that, trying to get rid of blemishes and dark spots, that's a major concern, scarring," said Kiamber Bruton.

Dermatologist Dr. Rutledge Forney says whatever age you are, you "certainly don't have to spend a fortune to take good care of your skin. And that's the important thing to remember."

If you're in your twenties: first, learn what type of skin you have. And then find a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen that fit.

Dr. Forney says shop at a store that will let you test the products first.

"And if you can't test the product make sure they'll take it back. Because the way a product feels on your skin is most important. It may have everything you should have in it, but if you don't like the way it feels, you'll never use it, it's a waste of your money," said Dr. Forney.

By your thirties, you may be seeing your first signs of skin damage and discoloration.

"I'm starting to see a lot of lines and wrinkles around my jaw line, and on my forehead," said 36-year old Kathleen Vo.

"I'm noticing a little bit of fine lines around my eyes, now that I've hit my thirties," said 36-year old Latonya Milling.

If you're in your thirties and not using sunscreen, start, and wear it every day -- look for a minimum SPF of 30 and a sunscreen with antioxidants may double your results.

"People try to take antioxidants by mouth, but there's also data that if you put it on your skin, particularly with sunscreen, you get double value out of it," said Dr. Forney.

Your thirties are also a time to reevaluate your skin -- see if it's changed and become dryer. And, if so, think about changing products.

"Your skin needs to feel good. If you get up in the morning and wash your face and your skin feels tight, or it looks crinkly, you may need something that's either a gentler soap, or you may need more moisturizer than you used to use when you were 20 and had oily skin," said Dr. Forney.

In your forties and fifties, hormonal changes and sun damage may be catching up with you.

"I've aged pretty well. I've got a few wrinkles and signs of aging. But I've earned them all and it's a natural part of life," said 55-year old Krystle Hannigan.

In your forties and fifties, you may want to tweak your skincare routine and consider a weekly exfoliation to get rid of dead skin.

Dr. Forney also recommends asking your doctor about Retin-A. The vitamin A derivative can turn back the clock by erasing fine lines and plumping the skin.

"I compare it to brushing your teeth. If you don't brush your teeth every day, you'll know that in eight years, or 10 years. But you don't notice it every day. If you use Retin every day, it's not going to change your life, but it will make a difference ten years down the line," said Dr. Forney.

If you can only afford one product: go with a sunscreen. The sun cause 90 percent of the damage to our skin as we age.

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