Skincare expert shares four affordable steps to ‘younger-looking’ skin
Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics skin clinics, recommended using a face serum in addition to a moisturiser.
1. Face serum
The expert explained: “A serum is hydrating to skin making it appear brighter, firmer, smoother and increases moisture levels.
“Serums are also rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C which targets uneven skin tones and helps with anti-ageing.
“Molecules in serums are smaller than molecules in a moisturiser which allows the product to absorb much deeper into the pores, again creating a fresher, younger appearance.”
To get the best results from a serum, cleanse and tone as usual before applying a few drops of serum into the palm of your hands and gently patting it into the skin.
The expert recommended doing this twice a day before finishing off with moisturiser.
2. Wear an SPF all year round
Dr Perry continued: “A large percentage of ageing is down to wrinkles. Even in winter, we should be wearing sunscreen every day before applying makeup.
“Just because it’s a cold, cloudy day it doesn’t mean you won’t be exposed to the strong UVA rays that cause premature ageing and potential skin cancer.”
Even if makeup has an added SPF, it is recommended to use a separate one as part of a daily skincare routine.
3. Hydrate
It’s no myth that drinking at least eight glasses of water per day can help to keep the skin looking healthy, smooth and plump.
Dehydrated skin can end up looking dry, and flaky and wrinkles end up looking more pronounced.
The pro noted: “Drinking water also helps to flush your system of toxins whilst reducing the risk of acne and other skin problems. If your skin is oily, then your pores will clog up, eventually leading to acne breakouts.”
4. Get a good night’s sleep
Dr Perry explained: “It’s not called beauty sleep for no reason. Your body needs time to restore itself overnight and that includes your face, too.
“While you sleep your skin is making new collagen and busy repairing DNA damage from the day before.
“Fewer wrinkles means younger-looking skin. Well-rested skin looks healthier, brighter and indeed we lose the puffiness under our eyes which can make us look older.”