As we age, our skin goes through a multitude of changes and consequently good skin care becomes more important. The skin care industry is a crowded minefield, and it becomes really hard to know what skin care we should be prioritising. There are so many different products available that if you had the time and money to have a 100 step skin care routine it would be entirely possible. For those of us who don’t have the time, money or desire for a complicated skin care regimen, we want to know which few steps are the most important for ageing skin.

It’s not about looking younger, it’s about keeping our skin looking good, keeping us looking healthy and radiant.

So I’ve put together a list of 5 things that make the biggest difference to my skin. These are the things I swear by and will not sacrifice because I know they help to keep my skin looking it’s best.

1. Regular Exfoliation

This is the one thing you can do at home that will make your skin look better instantly. Exfoliating your skin regularly helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores and stimulate collagen production. It’s important to note that as we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down, which can result in a dull and lacklustre complexion. So it’s important to exfoliate regularly if you want your skin one to look even and bright.

When it comes to exfoliating, there are a few different options available. Chemical or enzyme exfoliants such as peels or non-abrasive treatments are the preferred choice and work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed. By sloughing off the dead skin build up, you’re unclogging and refining pores, fading pigmentation and evening out the skin tone, and revealing the bright living skin cells beneath so the skin looks radiant, rather than dry and dull.

A good enzyme exfoliant is one of the things I will spend more $$ on. My favourite, costs around $100 and will last me 3-4 months. It’s worth every cent! Regular exfoliation improves the texture and appearance of your skin, leaving it looking brighter and more youthful.

My favourite is Cosmedix Cranberry Eznyme Mask buy it HERE

2. Cosmeceutical Retinol

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that has been shown to have numerous benefits for the skin. It works by stimulating collagen production and increasing cell turnover, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage. Think of it this way, it’s continually resurfacing the skin, evening the skin tone and keeping the skin thick and plump.

It’s worth investing in a cosmeceutical retinol for maximum benefits. These products contain higher concentrations of actives and are formulated with lots of other skin loving ingredients.

Using a cosmeceutical retinol can be expensive, but it’s arguably one of the best things you can do for your skin. In fact, if you choose to invest in a high-quality retinol product, you may be able to save money on a basic everyday moisturiser. I’d prefer to spend my money on a pricey exfoliant and retinol, and then opt for a cheaper pharmacy moisturiser.

My favourite retinol is Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol buy it HERE

3. Bi-Annual Skin Treatments

In addition to regular at-home skincare, it’s important to give your skin a professional treatment at least twice a year. This could be anything from laser treatments and fraxel to cosmetic peels and microneedling. You would need to visit your local clinic and get their advice on which particular treatment your skin would most benefit from.

These treatments are the gold standard in skin care, giving you a stronger, deeper skin rejuvenation.

In-clinic treatments are absolutely worth the investment if you’re serious about maintaining radiant, healthy-looking skin.

My favourite Clinics in Sydney are Shape Clinic Darlinghurst, Muse Clinic Chatswood, The Clinic Bondi Junction

4. Adequate Hydration

Hydration is key when it comes to maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. This means using both skin oils and moisturisers to help lock in moisture and prevent dehydration. And you don’t have to spend big $$$ on great moisturisers or skin oils, some of my favourites are inexpensive.

It’s important to note that even oily skin needs hydration, as over-drying the skin can actually exacerbate oil production. Look for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers and serums that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin, as these ingredients are great for boosting hydration levels.

In addition to using topical products, it’s also important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Jojoba Oil Costs anywhere from $20-$50 and is one of my favourite things to use! It’s hydrating and contains lots of vitamins that are great for your skin. Buy it HERE

Antipodes Lime Caviar Collagen Firming Cream is such a beautiful moisturiser. You can get it for $48 at Chemist Warehouse HERE

5. Sunscreen Daily

Last but not least, wearing sunscreen daily is absolutely crucial if you want to prevent the signs of ageing skin. Exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause everything from fine lines and wrinkles to age spots and skin cancer.

Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it every day, even if it’s cloudy outside. You should also reapply every two hours if you’re spending time in the sun.