The signs of ageing skin

As we age, our skin functions gradually slow and environmental stressors take their toll. Key signs of skin ageing include fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, sagging, pigmentation, dullness, dryness, visible blood vessels and thinning, fragile skin. The skin also loses its ability to heal and regenerate.

Understanding Anti-Ageing

  • Who is affected?

    Skin ageing affects everyone at some point, but certain factors will make you more susceptible to premature and severe skin ageing. Some skin types will show signs of ageing sooner. People who spend a lot of time in the sun without adequate protection are more prone to skin ageing. Hormonal fluctuations and menopause can also affect the structure of the skin and hydration levels. Stress, poor diet, alcohol and smoking will speed up the skin ageing process, too.

  • What causes skin ageing?

    As we age, our skin functions gradually slow. Skin cell renewal declines and fibroblast activity reduces, which leads to decline in collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid production. The natural ageing process is influenced by genetics and hormonal changes, but it is also accelerated by environmental challenges and lifestyle choices, including UV radiation, pollution, smoking and poor diet. 

  • How can we prevent skin ageing?

    The natural skin ageing process cannot be prevented, but there are measures you can take to slow down the signs and promote a healthy and youthful complexion for longer. These include using a high-level, broad-spectrum SPF every day, avoiding sun beds, incorporating retinoids and antioxidants into your skincare routine, moisturising regularly, drinking enough water, avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, getting enough sleep and managing stress levels.

Fibroblasts and growth factors

Fibroblasts and growth factors are incredibly important when it comes to skin ageing. Fibroblasts are specialised cells found in the dermis of the skin, and growth factors are proteins that bind to fibroblasts. They both play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s health and structural integrity, responsible for collagen production, elastin synthesis, cell repair, skin renewal and hydration levels. This is what keeps the skin looking and feeling healthy and youthful.

Technologies for effective anti-ageing skincare

Find the right anti-ageing products for your skin

View all

FAQs

What causes skin ageing?

Skin ageing is influenced by a combination of intrinsic factors, such as genetics and natural cell turnover, and extrinsic factors, including sun exposure, environmental stressors and lifestyle. Over time, these factors can lead to reduced collagen and elastin production, slower skin regeneration and weakened barrier function. Together, this contributes to visible signs such as fine lines, uneven texture and loss of firmness.

Can skincare help slow visible signs of ageing?

Skincare can help support the skin’s natural processes and reduce the visible signs associated with ageing. Using products that promote skin renewal, hydration and barrier support may help improve skin texture, tone and resilience over time. While skincare cannot stop the ageing process, consistent use as part of a daily routine can help maintain healthier-looking skin for longer.

How should I build a skincare routine for ageing skin?

A skincare routine for ageing skin should focus on supporting the skin barrier, improving tone and encouraging targeted renewal. Gentle cleansing helps prepare the skin for active treatments, while targeted products can support firmness, texture and overall skin quality. Hydration and barrier-strengthening steps are essential for maintaining comfort and resilience. Consistency is key, and routines should be tailored to individual skin type, sensitivity and lifestyle for long-term results.

At what age should I start using anti-ageing skincare?

There is no specific age to start using anti-ageing skincare, as skin changes vary between individuals. Some people begin to notice early signs such as dullness or fine lines in their late twenties or thirties, while others may start later. Choosing skincare based on skin condition rather than age helps ensure appropriate support at every stage.

Can sun exposure accelerate skin ageing?

Yes. Sun exposure is one of the main external factors that accelerates skin ageing. Ultraviolet radiation contributes to collagen breakdown, pigmentation and loss of elasticity over time. Daily sun protection helps reduce cumulative damage and is an essential part of maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. High-level, full-spectrum sunscreens such as HELIOCARE 360° provide very high protection against UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared-A radiation, supporting long-term skin health and resilience.

Is it ever too late to start an anti-ageing routine?

No. It is never too late to start an anti-ageing skincare routine. While early prevention can be beneficial, targeted skincare can still help improve skin texture, hydration and overall appearance at any age. Consistent use of suitable products, alongside daily sun protection, helps support skin quality and resilience over time.