An Aesthetician Recommends the Best Anti-Aging Ingredients to Use by Age

In your 20s

Believe it or not, by your 20s, your skin is already aging. According to New Orleans based aesthetician, Mandy Epley, it’s our eyes that start aging first. “Specific ingredients to look for in your 20s needs to be found in an eye cream,” says Epley. “One that has neuropeptides because [it] stimulates collagen and elastin production.”

Using sunscreen is also vitally important at this age. Epley recommends anything with at least 30 SPF. Stephanie Torres, esthetician at The Delmar, adds, “SPF is your golden ticket.  Sun damage is one of the leading causes of wrinkles, sagging, and hyper pigmentation.

Try this: Murad Water Resistant Sunscreen ($30)

In your 30s

Skin care in your 30s is another opportunity for slowing down any early signs of aging.

“Look for products that contain ingredients that have preventative qualities like antioxidants,” recommends Epley. “Air pollution and UV rays are sources of free radicals so protect your skin with a layer of antioxidants.” According to naturopathic doctor Dr. Trevor Cates, rosehip seed oil is a great natural alternative to keep premature aging at bay. “It protects against sun damage, scarring and early wrinkle formation.”

Try this: Kora Organics Luxurious Rosehip Facial Oil ($54)

In your 40s

In terms of skincare, the more intensive, the better.

Torres recommends intensive products like serums with Vitamin C because it helps “smooth and firm skin and fade brown spots.”

Another go-to ingredient would be retinol. Epley explains that retinol helps skin cells create healthier skin cells and increases the amount of substance that enhances your skin’s structural elements. “This will help with fine lines and wrinkles.”

Try this: Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil ($105)

In your 50s

Our skin experts agree that at this age, boosting collagen production is very important.

Torres recommends products like highly concentrated serums and rich face creams that help promote collagen and elastic production.

For a more natural approach, try incorporating pomegranate seed oil into your skincare. Because of its high concentration in antioxidants and omega 5 fatty acids, Dr. Cates says it helps “even skin tone, clean up free radicals and help with collagen production.” 

Try this: Exuviance Collagen Triple Boost Serum ($75)

In your 60s and beyond

Torres’s rule of thumb for this age is, “Instead of younger skin, focus on healthy skin!” Higher concentrated serums, creams or face masks will help promote elasticity as well as firmness of the skin. Epley adds, “Look for ceramides in your skincare. It holds skin cells together, giving your skin a more firm appearance.”

Try this: Valmont Firming Lifting Corrector Factor II ($315)