Skin care can be complicated, especially when our routines evolve as we age. We asked dermatologists which steps are no-skip and which just come highly recommended. A skin-care routine for mature should cater to the common concerns we see when aging, including photodamage, dry and thinning skin, wrinkling and laxity, says New York dermatologist Marina Peredo, MD.
Featured experts
- Marina Peredo, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Julie Russak, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Kally Papantoniou, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Melville, NY
- Sue Ellen Cox, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Durham, NC
“As we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner and more sensitive due to reduced collagen production, decreased lipid content and an overall weakening of the skin’s barrier function. This makes mature skin more prone to irritation, dryness and inflammation,” explains New York dermatologist Julie Russak,MD. “For mature skin—especially as estrogen levels decline—maintaining hydration, restoring lost lipids and stimulating collagen production become paramount.”
A mature skin-care routine thrives on hydration, nourishment and renewal with products that restore and support the skin barrier, says Melville, NY dermatologist Kally Papantoniou, MD but the most important factor is consistency. “Stick to your routine, and your skin will thank you!”
Must: Gentle Cleanser
“Start with a gentle cleanser—cleansing is key, but harsh formulas can strip the skin, leaving it dry and irritated,” says Dr. Papantoniou. Dr. Russak also recommends a mild, non-striping cleanser that will remove impurities while still preserving the skin’s natural moisture.
Ones to try: DefenAge 1-Step Multi-Cleanse ($46), Caudalie Vinoclean Cleansing Micellar Water ($30)
Must: Retinoid Product or Gentle Alternative
As the gold standard of anti-aging skin-care ingredients, it’s no surprise dermatologists urge having a retinod product in your routine. Dr. Papantoniou credits retinoids for boosting collagen and improving skin texture.
"Retinoids also gently exfoliate dead skin cells and encourage the growth of new, healthy skin cells," says Dr. Cox. “This enhanced cell turnover helps to reveal a more radiant complexion and creates a better canvas for other skin-care products and in-office treatments to work.”
Dr. Russak notes that, given retinoid’s potency, it should be balanced with supportive ingredients to reduce irritation. If your skin is too sensitive for retinol use, she recommends gentler alternatives like bakuchiol.
Ones to try: Skinbetter AlphaRet Overnight Cream ($140), Mother Science Retinol Synergist ($96)
Must: Moisturizer
A moisturizer is a must in anyone’s skin-care routine, but it becomes even more crucial as we age. Dr. Russak recommends opting for a rich, nourishing cream that locks in moisture and supports barrier repair to help maintain hydration and resilience. Dr. Papantoniou adds that applying a moisturizer at the end of your evening routine will help seal in the other products and strengthen the skin barrier for a smooth, resilient complexion.
Ones to try: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 ($155), Emepelle Night Cream ($195), Skinfluence Intense Moisture Cream ($100)
Must: Facial Oil
Dr. Papantoniou says facial oil is a must in an evening routine for mature skin. “I can’t emphasize this enough—oils are essential for mature skin to lock in moisture, reinforce the skin barrier, and add a beautiful glow.” Dr. Russak says, “A few drops of a high-quality face oil rich in cholesterol and essential fatty acids can provide an extra layer of nourishment, especially during colder months.”
Ones to try: Biossance Vitamin C Rose + Squalane Brightening and Firming Face Oil ($74), Eminence Organic Skin Care Facial Recovery Oil ($85)
Recommended: Hydrating Serum
Dr. Papantoniou equates a hydrating serum to a drink of water for your skin. For example, "Serums with hyaluronic acid or growth factors help plump and refresh the skin,” she explains.
Ones to try: Stripes The Power Move($85), Simply Dermatology Simply Serum Collagen Complex ($165)
Recommended: Gentle Exfoliation
While not a required step, Dr. Papantoniou says gentle exfoliation just one to two times a week will take your routine to the next level. “A mild exfoliant, like glycolic acid, helps remove dead skin cells and brighten dull skin,” she says.
Dr. Russak agrees gentle chemical or enzymatic exfoliation weekly will help remove dead skin cells and boost the absorption of active ingredients. However, she recommends using caution to avoid irritation.
Ones to try: SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ($48), The Outset Exfoliating Caffeine Micro Polish ($34)
Recommended: Growth Factor or Peptide Product
“Incorporating a growth factor or peptide-based product into your nighttime routine is an excellent choice for mature skin, particularly for those in the perimenopausal or menopausal stages. These products promote cell growth, repair and regeneration,” says Durham, NC dermatologist Sue Ellen Cox, MD. “Growth factors and peptides are specifically designed to address common aging concerns, such as uneven tone and texture, helping to restore a smoother, more youthful appearance.” Dr. Russak explains that modern peptide complexes help signal to the skin to produce more collagen and reinforce its structure, counteracting age-related collagen loss.
Ones to try: PCA SKIN Pro-Max Age Renewal Serum ($219), Jan Marini Skin Research Regeneration Booster ($235)
Recommended: Eye and Neck Treatments
Dr. Papantoniou says using targeted treatments for the eye and neck areas can make a dramatic difference. “The eye area is one of the first places to show fine lines, so I always recommend an eye cream to keep it hydrated and firm,” she says. Dr. Russak suggests using specialized eye creams made to address fine lines, puffiness and the delicate hydration the area requires.
Additionally, “Many people overlook their neck until sagging or crepey skin appears, but prevention is key. A dedicated neck cream supports this delicate area, keeping the skin smooth and firm over time.”
Ones to try: Sarah Creal Firm Offer Ultimate 4-in-1 Peptide Eye Cream and Primer for Fine Lines ($95), SkinCeuticals Tripeptide-R Neck Repair ($136)
