It's not uncommon to be concerned with skin signs of aging that come with mature skin which include wrinkles, sagging, and discoloration. “While there is no proven strategy to completely reverse skin aging. There are some tips that will benefit your mature skin,” says Dr. Andrea Suarez, a board-certified dermatologist, and skincare expert. 

“The key is being proactive and consistent with recommended skincare products,” says Dr. Corey L. Hartman, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology. “Sun protection, your skincare routine, and seeing your dermatologist regularly will be essential to prevent premature aging and protect your mature skin.”

Regulate Your Diet.

“First and foremost, focus on what you put into your body just as much as what you put on your skin,” says Dr. Andrea Suarez. She further explains, that with regards to nutrition and aging, one phenomenon that is quite well studied is the formation of advanced glycation end products. Advanced glycation products accumulate as we age and explain a lot of diseases of aging. Not only wrinkling and decreased elasticity of the skin but also cataracts and diabetes. Advanced glycation end products can either be produced endogenously as a result of high blood sugar levels or consumed exogenously and the foods that we eat cause these end products to crosslink the collagen and elastic fibers in our skin and lead to wrinkles and decreased elasticity as well as sagging and discoloration.  Endogenous glycation can occur as a result of high blood sugar levels from eating a lot of sugary or processed foods. Common sources of advanced glycation end products include packaged crackers, brown colas, sugary doughnuts, and unfortunately barbecue grill meats. 

Never Skip Sunscreen.

Ultraviolet radiation is the number one culprit in aging our skin. Sun damages elastin and causes loss of collagen synthesis. This leads to drooping of the jawline wrinkles, discoloration, and thickening of the skin. But most importantly, beyond cosmetic concerns. Ultraviolet radiation causes skin cancers. However, it's simply not doable to just avoid the sun. So what can you do? Make sure you apply a Broad Spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to your face and sun-exposed areas on the hands. Don't forget to apply the sunscreen to your neck and ears as these are common signs of aging as well as premalignant skin cancers. Exercise in the early morning and avoid going outdoors between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. 

Moisturize Daily.

“Dry skin tends to appear older than hydrated skin,” Dr. Hartman continues. By using a moisturizer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, you will keep dry skin at bay. Dr. Hartman recommends a moisturizer with proven anti-aging ingredients like bakuchiol, glycerin, and essential oils. “A great exfoliator and moisturizer that reduces hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, fine lines, wrinkles, and redness.,” Dr. Simran Sethi, MD, MBA founder of RenewMD wellness. 

 For extra hydration, look for a formula containing hyaluronic acid. “Hyaluronic acid protects the skin’s natural moisture, supporting the skin barrier and making it more resilient to the drying and damaging effects of the environment,” Dr. Garcia. The hero ingredient accelerates the process of replacing dull, dead skin cells with new, fresh cells.

Introduce Retinoids To Your Routine.

In addition to daily sunscreen, retinoids are the best-studied cream for anti-aging. Retinoid is a vitamin A derivative that boosts collagen production, increases skin cell turnover, decreases oil production, breaks up clogged pores, and overall can improve the texture of your skin. When starting a retinoid it's important to follow the directions carefully. Irritation is a common side effect. So go slowly. Starting with a small amount of retinoids should be applied to a freshly washed face in the evening before bedtime as they can become unstable when exposed to UV light. Apply moisturizer following application of the retinoid to decrease irritation of the skin. Remember, topical retinoids are not recommended. For women who are pregnant, nursing, or contemplating conceiving. Ask your doctor or treating healthcare provider for a prescription retinoid is right for you. 

Remove Makeup Thoroughly At Night. 

Make sure you wash the makeup off of your face at night. As we sleep, the skin turns over and as we age, the rate at which our skin turns over slows. So don't increase the work of turnover for your skin by leaving a thick layer of makeup on and lastly be smart about what cosmetic procedures you choose. 

According to Dr. Ramirez Garcia, a lead dermatologist for Nava MD, “leaving your makeup on can not only clog pores and cause a breakout, but block the skin's natural repair process as well – leading to dull, rough, and weathered-looking skin.” When selecting a cleanser, Dr. Garcia advises on one free of sulfates and detergents that could disrupt your skin’s delicate moisture balance.

Try Chemical Peels.

According to Dr. Andrea, “As you age, your skin turnover rate decreases. Getting peels can help exfoliate the skin and make it appear brighter and more lustrous. A chemical peel is a deeper process that can also boost collagen production.”

Go For Laser Resurfacing.

Find out if you're a candidate for laser resurfacing, a relatively new procedure called fractional resurfacing can increase collagen production and improve the look of mature skin. Resurfacing can improve skin texture while minimizing wrinkles, discoloration, and old acne scars. 

As earlier mentioned, nothing can completely reverse the clock on aging. These choices can help slow down the rate. Bear in mind that consistency is key not cost. You don't need an expensive over the top skincare regimen to take care of the health of your skin and improve your mature skin.