Skin Care for the Mature Skin

As we age, our skin needs change. To keep skin looking its very best, a woman's skin care regimen should change to address the unique needs of each decade. Understanding the changes occurring beneath the skin can help women take the appropriate steps in skin care. While there are many high-end treatments available for women looking to achieve great looking skin in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, there are also many practical steps that can be taken to maintain skin as well.

Women in their 40s (and sometimes as early as their mid-30s) may begin to notice some real changes occurring to their skin. With the advancement of age, gravity, genetics and sun damage, a woman may be more aware of the effects of aging than ever before. During this time, fine lines, age spots and the loss of elasticity are earmarks of the aging process. Premenopausal changes in the body are the prime culprits to skin changes. As skin's collagen begins to break down and cells turn over more slowly, women in their 40s may notice their skin appears duller and drier. Fine lines begin to appear around the mouth and eyes. Issues such as rosacea, blotchiness and adult acne can also set it.

Skin care for women in their 40s should incorporate the use of soap-free cleansers, which will effectively cleanse the skin without stripping moisture. Bar soaps are not recommended for use for women in their 40s as it tends to dry skin out. Now is the time to invest in topical creams infused with glycolic acid, retinol and Vitamins A and E to target aging issues. Nutrients such as these can subtly improve skin's condition and provide toning. Antioxidants are also useful as they are not only effective for preventive health, but they also correct cell damage, which leads to an improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Exfoliation is essential for women in their 40s as it can increase skin cell turnover, revealing more radiant skin. It's important not be overly aggressive in applying a physical exfoliant. However, alpha-hydroxy or beta-hydroxy cleansers and lotions are a beneficial way to introduce exfoliation into one's regimen.

By the 50s, a woman's skin is considered mature. The biological and hormonal changes occurring during this time may lead to unwanted hair growth or acne. As estrogen levels drop, the natural oil production of the skin decreases as oil glands reduce in size. Skin is more fragile, making it easier to injure and slower to heal.

Women in their 50s will notice a loss of elasticity of skin around the eyes, mouth and neck. As a result, skin is lackluster in appearance and wrinkles are deeper. During her 50s, a woman should again change her approach to skin care, as her skin will be more sensitive to aggressive anti-aging products. Instead, she should use a thick daily moisturizer, as well as a moisturizing night cream. Corrective, rich-emollient eye creams are also recommended. Vitamin C is an effective ingredient in the fight against aging. It penetrates beneath the epidermal layer, building and plumping up collagen. It is also good for clearing up adult acne.

Women in their 50s should also give some thought to the makeup they use. Swap out dense foundations and powders for lighter, mineral essential-based products.

In the sixth decade, the aging process is more pronounced. The effects of gravity on the eyelids, neck and jawline are more obvious. Any damage that has occurred by this time is unlikely to be corrected by skin care products. Women often seek the assistance of cosmetic enhancements to correct advanced facial wrinkles. Moisturizers should contain soy, retinol and alpha hydroxyl acids that are beneficial for a woman's skin. Any treatments that encourage collagen and elastin stimulation are a good bet.

Makeup for a woman in her 60s should be used to enhance mature beauty-not hide it. A woman in her 60s should choose makeup with nourishing ingredients that contain Vitamin E, aloe and other emollients help the improve the texture and health of skin.