(This article is authored by Shahnaz Husain 
She is a pioneer and leader of professional beauty training in India)

Everyone wants their skin to look clear and young. To get glowing skin, people spend money on various products which often don't yield any significant results. Ageing is a natural process and in such a situation, it is normal to see signs of ageing on the face. Here are some skincare tips for people of all ages. Remember, skincare needs change based on age and it is advised that one caters to the demands of the body and how it reacts to various products. While basics remain the same, slight alteration to skincare as you age can yield good results.

Skincare in your 20s: Laying the right foundation

Your 20s are a prime time to establish a solid skincare routine that will benefit you for years to come. The focus should be on maintaining healthy and vibrant skin.

Cleanse twice a day

Wash your face in morning and night with a gentle cleanser formulated for your skin type (oily, dry, combination, etc). Avoid harsh scrubs or cleansers that strip your skin's natural oils. Remember, over-washing can strip your skin of natural oils, so find a balance that works for you. Always choose herbal and organic ingredients that will make your skin healthy and soft.

Moisturise for healthy skin

Choose a moisturiser that suits your skin type. Lotions are good for normal to dry skin, while oil-free gels are better for oily skin. Look for ingredients like aloe vera gel, rose water, shea butter, glycerine in your moisturiser.

Apply sunscreen

Sun exposure is a major contributor to wrinkles and age spots. Develop a habit of using sunscreen daily with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Broad-spectrum protection is key to shielding your skin from UVA and UVB rays.

Diet makes a difference

Nourish your skin from within by eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support skin health.

How to get glowing skin in your 30s?

Your 30s are a turning point in your skincare journey. Here's how to elevate your routine and habits for a healthy and glowing complexion.

Cleanse wisely

Consistency is key. Cleanse twice daily with a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type. Consider a double cleanse in the evening to remove makeup, sunscreen, and pollution thoroughly.

Exfoliation is crucial

Exfoliation is crucial for removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, revealing a brighter and smoother texture. Exfoliate your skin once a week with ingredients like oatmeal, gram flour, rice flour, rose water etc. Do not over-exfoliate the skin as it may get irritated.

Moisturise deeply

As your skin loses moisture production, switch to a richer moisturiser or hydrating serum. Look for ingredients like glycerin for deep hydration. Apply the moisturiser in the morning and night.

Never skip sunscreen

Use SPF 30 or higher every single day, reapplying every two hours, especially when outdoors. This helps prevent premature ageing and sun damage.

Drink water

Nourishing your skin with a balanced diet and plenty of water will keep your skin plump and hydrated from within. Aim for 8 glasses daily, adjusting based on climate and activity level. Limit processed foods and sugary drinks.

Skincare routine and habits for your 40s

Your 40s are a time to refine your skincare routine and prioritise strategies that address the natural changes your skin undergoes.

Cleanse gently

Continue cleansing twice daily with a gentle cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing that can strip natural oils. You can start your day by cleansing your skin with raw milk as it makes your skin clearer and softer.

Exfoliation is important

After your 20s, this is the constant after cleansing, but adjust the frequency (1-2 times a week) to avoid irritation. Never use harsh scrubs to exfoliate your skin.

Deep hydration is key

As skin loses moisture more readily in your 40s, prioritise deep hydration. Look for moisturisers and serums rich in humectants like honey and glycerin. These ingredients attract and retain water in the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.

Aloe vera gel is a natural moisturiser with soothing and hydrating properties. Coconut oil offers deep hydration for dry skin types. Don't forget to apply sunscreen. Have a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like omega-3s.

Ageless Beauty at your 50s and beyond

Your 50s are a time to celebrate your inner and outer beauty! While skin changes are inevitable, a well-crafted skincare routine and healthy habits can keep your skin looking radiant.  

Gentle cleansing

Look for gentle, fragrance-free cream cleansers that contain nourishing oils like olive oil, coconut oil or avocado oil. These cleansers remove dirt and makeup while leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated.

Exfoliate with care

As you age, skin cell turnover slows down. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, smoother complexion. Reduce exfoliation to 1-2 times a week to avoid irritating your thinner, more delicate skin. Exfoliation can remove some natural oils from your skin. Follow up with a hydrating toner and moisturizer suitable for mature skin.

Deep hydration is crucial

As skin loses elasticity and collagen production slows, prioritize deep hydration. Deep hydration is essential in your 50s and above, and achieving it with natural ingredients is a fantastic way to nourish your mature skin. Rosewater is a gentle toner with hydrating properties. Shea butter, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, honey, etc are good for your mature skin.

SPF is your BFF

As you age, your skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to sun damage. This can lead to wrinkles, age spots and uneven skin tone. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for everyday use.

Use eye cream

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face. This area is prone to dryness and dehydration, which can worsen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Eye creams are typically richer in moisture than your regular moisturizer to provide intense hydration.

Choosing a good eye cream can be difficult, but you don't need to buy chemical-based products everytime. You can easily make anti-aging eye cream at home. You can prepare a base with essential oils like argan, rosehip and frankincense.

You can add shea or cocoa butter to it for creamy and rich texture. Add aloe vera gel. Your anti-aging natural eye cream is ready which will be gentle on your skin and will help reduce the appearance of signs of ageing.