During summer, our skin is at an increased risk of ageing due to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause damage to the skin, leading to sunburn, fine lines, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Additionally, the heat and humidity in Asia can cause the skin to become dehydrated, leading to dryness, flakiness, and a dull complexion, which can further emphasise the signs of ageing. It’s crucial to take proactive steps to prevent and minimise the impact of ageing on our skin. This includes actions like wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, seeking shade, and staying well-hydrated.
Yet, these things are not enough to slow down the effects of skin-ageing. Skin changes such as wrinkles and sagging can negatively affect self-esteem, making individuals feel uncomfortable and dissatisfied with their appearance.
As individuals become increasingly aware of the impact of ageing on their skin, they are seeking out natural skincare ingredients to combat and minimise signs of ageing. These ingredients are obtained from plants, minerals, and other natural sources, and provide multiple advantages for the skin without harmful chemicals or additives that may cause skin damage or irritation.
If you’re concerned about wrinkles and other signs of skin ageing, it’s helpful to know which natural skincare ingredients can be effective in keeping your skin looking youthful and radiant.
1. Amino Acid
Amino acids are a crucial element for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin. They provide numerous benefits, such as promoting collagen production, which is vital for improving skin texture and elasticity. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the skin that gives the skin its structure and elasticity, maintaining its firmness and elasticity. Amino acids play a critical role in collagen production, as they are the building blocks of proteins. Without amino acids, the body cannot produce collagen, leading to sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines. Additionally, amino acids are also essential for elastin production, another protein that helps to maintain the skin’s elasticity. Therefore, incorporating amino acids in skincare products can help to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance overall skin health.
2. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a commonly used skincare ingredient that offers multiple benefits, especially for people who want to hydrate and plump their skin. It is a naturally occurring substance in the body that is responsible for retaining moisture, providing a youthful appearance to the skin. However, as we age, the level of hyaluronic acid in our body reduces, causing dryness and wrinkles. Fortunately, incorporating hyaluronic acid in skincare products can help to restore and maintain moisture in the skin, improving its texture and overall health. Additionally, it is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and can be found in various products such as serums, moisturisers, and masks. Regular use of these products can help to keep the skin hydrated and healthy-looking.
Anti Ageing Combination: Hyaluronic Acid + Amino Acid
Combining Hyaluronic Acid with Amino Acid can have a significant impact on the health and appearance of our skin. The two work together to provide deep hydration and stimulate the natural production of collagen, which is essential for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and youthful appearance. Sunekos is an example of a type of injectable treatment that utilises amino acids and hyaluronic acid to minimise the visible effects of ageing on the skin. Unlike traditional dermal fillers, it leverages the biological properties of amino acids in conjunction with Hyaluronic Acid (HA + HY6AA).
The hyaluronic acid helps in transporting amino acids to the deepest layers of the skin, where vital processes like collagen production happens.This increase in collagen production can effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in various areas of the body, including the neck, hands, and eyes, among others, This, in turn, promotes overall skin health. Additionally, hyaluronic acid’s ability to deeply hydrate the skin makes it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their skincare routine and achieve a more youthful complexion.
3. Rosehip Seed Oil
If you’re concerned about signs of skin ageing, you may want to consider adding Rosehip seed oil to your skincare routine. Extracted from the seeds of the wild rose bush that grows in Chile, this oil is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin C, making it a popular skincare ingredient with numerous benefits for the skin.
Some of the benefits of using rosehip seed oil in skincare include promoting collagen production, moisturising the skin, and reducing the appearance of scars. Rosehip seed oil contains vitamin C, which helps stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother skin. The essential fatty acids in rosehip seed oil help to hydrate the skin and improve its overall texture, while its antioxidants can reduce inflammation and promote healing, making it an excellent ingredient for scar treatment. When using rosehip seed oil, it is recommended to apply a few drops to clean, damp skin and gently massage it in, focusing on areas that are prone to ageing or scarring.
4. Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is another popular natural ingredient for anti-ageing skincare among ageing Asians, known for its high antioxidant content, anti-inflammatory compounds, and ability to promote skin health. The antioxidants found in green tea extract protect the skin from free radical damage that accelerate the ageing process and cause fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling. Green tea extract can be incorporated into a skincare routine through products such as serums, moisturisers, or toners, or used as a face mask or in DIY skincare recipes. Overall, it is a potent natural ingredient with multiple benefits for ageing skin.
5. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that is commonly used in skincare due to its ability to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Vitamin E helps to neutralise these free radicals, protecting the skin from damage and improving its texture. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that topical application of vitamin E can increase the levels of this antioxidant in the skin, providing protective benefits. Vitamin E can be obtained through a variety of dietary sources, including nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. It can also be used in DIY skincare by mixing a few drops of vitamin E oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond oil, to create a nourishing and hydrating serum.
As we age, it’s important to prioritise the health and appearance of our skin. By incorporating natural ingredients into our skincare routines, we can enjoy a range of benefits, such as reducing inflammation, stimulating collagen production, and maintaining moisture levels. It’s crucial to follow instructions carefully when using these.
Moreover, one must be mindful of the benefits and usage tips when incorporating natural ingredients into our skincare routines because our skin is a delicate and sensitive organ that requires proper care and attention.
While natural ingredients can provide numerous benefits for the skin, improper usage or overuse of certain ingredients can lead to adverse reactions and even damage to the skin. For example, using too much Tea tree oil can cause dryness, redness, and irritation, while excessive use of vitamin E can lead to skin irritation and breakouts
Lastly, an expert can provide personalised recommendations based on your skin type, concerns, and goals to help you navigate through the vast array of products available in the market. Additionally, they can also offer valuable advice on how to properly use and combine these ingredients to achieve optimal results while minimising the risk of adverse reactions or damage to the skin.