What happens as skin ages?
As we get older, skin slowly makes less collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep it firm and springy. Skin cells also renew more slowly, and the skin holds less moisture. Over time, this can show up as:
- Fine lines and wrinkles, often first around the eyes and mouth
- Loss of firmness and a less defined jawline
- Dull, tired-looking skin that has lost its glow
- Rougher texture and more visible pores
- Age spots and uneven skin tone
- Drier skin that feels tight
What causes skin ageing?
There are two kinds of ageing:
- Natural ageing: the changes that happen with time and are partly set by your genes.
- Photoageing: damage from the sun's UVA rays. It's responsible for much of the ageing people see on their face, neck and hands, such as wrinkles, sagging and age spots.
Other things can speed ageing up:
- Smoking, which damages collagen and reduces blood flow to the skin
- Pollution, which adds to everyday damage to the skin
- Poor sleep and stress, which can make skin look tired
- A damaged skin barrier, which makes skin lose moisture and look duller
In medium to deeper skin tones, ageing often shows first as uneven pigmentation and dullness, while wrinkles may appear later.
How dermatologists treat skin ageing
A dermatologist can look at what's bothering you most, whether that's lines, firmness, texture or tone, and suggest a plan. It may include:
- Topical treatments: prescription or professional creams that support skin renewal and improve texture and tone over time.
- In-clinic procedures: options such as chemical peels, microneedling, lasers, skin boosters or injectables, depending on your goals.
- A home-care plan: daily products that protect the skin and help maintain the results of treatment.
Results build slowly. Most ageing treatments take weeks to months, and protecting your skin from the sun is what helps those results last.
Daily care that helps
Wear sunscreen every day
A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is the most effective way to prevent premature ageing, such as wrinkles and age spots.
Cleanse gently
Harsh cleansers strip moisture from skin that's already producing less of it.
Moisturise morning and night
Well-hydrated skin looks smoother and plumper.
Use a targeted night routine
Night is a good time for products that support skin renewal.
Care for the eye area
The skin around the eyes is thinner and often shows ageing first.
Don't smoke, and protect your sleep
Both make a visible difference over time.