With inputs from a dermatologist and a yoga instructor – here's everything you need to know about how to use anti-wrinkle serums for that glow from within. Ageing is inevitable. We want to fight ageing so badly that even a glimmer of its resemblance is unsettling. But what is ageing and why is it so undesirable? The visibility of wrinkles, crow's feet and sagging skin means the signs of ageing are now noticeable on your face. Maybe in the 90s ageing was frowned upon. Today, we tackle it differently. It is no longer cool to call someone old. The phrase anti-ageing may be popular but the fear-mongering energy it carries transpires us all. As something that is to be taken care of rather than fearing, the anti-ageing toolbox we've crafted has anti-wrinkle serums along with some practices for radiant skin. It's true that as we age, the skin's radiance diminishes fast. This is because estrogen in women declines, which is the key activator of collagen production, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Estrogen loss dramatically affects the appearance of the skin, robbing us of that healthy glow, and making skin appear dry and dull. If you're wondering how to avoid this biological process, there is no way folks. Renowned dermatologist and skin expert from Mumbai Dr Madhuri Agrawal shares, "Starting with an anti-ageing skincare routine in as early as your late twenties can actually slow down the occurrence of signs of ageing."
01The Anti-Ageing Toolbox
From anti-wrinkle serums to restorative overnight creams and under eye recovery gels, caring for mature skin doesn't have to feel like an uphill battle. It can be an empowering routine. In fact, an effective skincare routine must have face serums that target wrinkles and fine lines. Below, we discuss the magic of anti-ageing serums along with practical tips to maintain radiant skin.
02Benefits of Anti-Wrinkle Serums
As Dr Madhuri Agrawal explains, anti-ageing serums are formulated to tackle common signs of ageing while improving skin health. Here are some of the benefits she highlights:
- Prevent and reduce common signs of ageing, such as coarse skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture.
- Penetrate deep into the skin, targeting the root causes of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
- Soften lines and smoothen skin texture.
- Brighten dark spots and improve overall skin tone.
- Firm the skin and enhance elasticity.
- Retinol-based serums stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving cell turnover and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- Peptides, such as copper peptides, promote collagen production for a youthful look.
- Hydrating ingredients, like ceramides and sodium hyaluronate, strengthen the skin barrier and enhance moisture retention.
03Ingredients to Look For in Anti-Wrinkle Serums
Here are the key ingredients to look for in anti-wrinkle serums and how should you use each one.
- Retinol (Vitamin A): The gold standard for reducing fine lines, improving skin texture, and boosting cell turnover. This one is my personal favourite to use in my nighttime routine. It increases collagen production, leading to firmer skin and deeming itself as the most effective ingredient for any anti-wrinkle serum. A common mistake is to ignore the under eyes. Make sure to use a retinol serum like the Lakme Skin Ultime Retinol Advanced Renewal Under Eye Serum to tackle those crow's feet.
- Vitamin C: Brightens skin, evens out skin tone, and fights free radicals to prevent premature ageing, making it an ideal ingredient for anti-wrinkle serums. Simple Skincare Booster Serum which contains 10% Vitamin C+E+F is a great product to start with. It's ideal if you're looking to get that instant glow.
- Hyaluronic Acid: As we age, the skin tends to become dry. To combat this, choose an anti-wrinkle serum with hyaluronic acid to provide deep hydration, plumping up fine lines and restoring volume. This one is best for dry or combination skin.
- Peptides: Promoting collagen production to maintain skin firmness and elasticity, peptides in anti-wrinkle serums are a saviour!
- Niacinamide: Reduces dullness, improves texture, and minimizes the appearance of pores. This form of vitamin B3 can also protect against sun damage and hyperpigmentation. A formulation that is infused with 98% pure niacinamide is Lakme Absolute Perfect Radiance Serum. Layer it with a moisturiser and sunscreen to completely lock in moisture and seal for protection.
04How to Use Anti-Wrinkle Serums for Best Results
Anti-wrinkle serums can be a game changer in your routine. The key is to know effective application tips, when to use and with what frequency and the best times to use them. Consistency plays an important role too. For best results, here are some ideas that you can incorporate on your skincare routine.
- Apply Serum to Damp Skin: Once you have cleansed your face, apply the serum to slightly damp skin. This is because skin that is slightly damp from toner or water absorbs serums more effectively.
- Use a Small Amount: A little goes a long way. Dispense a pea-sized amount of serum onto your fingertips.
- Gentle Application: The potent ingredients in any anti-wrinkle serum like retinol or peptides, must be applied gently. Just use your fingertips to gently press the serum into your skin, starting at the centre of your face and working outward. Avoid rubbing or tugging at the skin.
- Apply at Night: Many anti-wrinkle serums (especially those with retinol or AHA) work best overnight when your skin is in repair mode.
- Consistency is Key: Active ingredients in the serums take time to show visible results. Use regularly to see its effectiveness. Skincare is a long-term commitment.
05Practical Tips for Radiant Skin
Our daily practices and habits have a huge impact on the health of our skin. Some lifestyle tweaks like drinking plenty of water and prioritizing 7-8 hours of beauty sleep will allow for natural skin regeneration. Diet plays an incredibly important role too. Think about incorporating antioxidant-rich foods like berries, nuts, and leafy greens to combat oxidative stress that can negatively affect the skin. Apsara Vydyula , a certified yoga instructor, shares that simple and mindful living through wellness practices, yoga, deep breathing techniques, and stress management, contribute significantly to skin health. Stress often shows up on the skin, so a balanced mind supports a glowing complexion. "Remember, caring for ageing skin is about consistency and simplicity. Embracing a natural, wholesome lifestyle not only enhances your skin but also supports your overall well-being." It's common knowledge that yoga is the best way to approach a holistic goal. The first benefit of yoga is that your stress levels drop, which not only brings calmness to the face but also relaxes your chakras, limiting the negative effects of stress on the skin. Her top three asanas for glowing skin include Sirsasana (Headstand), Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose) and Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog). "Each of these asanas not only improves circulation and skin health but can also help in feeling more present and relaxed. I believe that inner balance is the secret to glowing skin", explains Apsara.
06Final Takeaway
- Ageing isn't something to be feared. So, instead of being alarmed by signs of ageing and wanting to correct them instantly, try to focus on consistency and introduce different ingredients slowly into your routine.
- Sunscreen is a must as photo-ageing can worsen the skin.
- Moisturizers need to be richer and thicker with advancing age as the skin gets extremely dry.
- Incorporate antioxidant skin care products and retinol in your daily routine.
- Add stem cells and peptides to the regime to augment skin health.
