Dermatologists answer frequently asked queries around anti-ageing skincare

To address dry skin associated with aging, it’s important to adopt a skincare routine that focuses on hydration and moisture retention. “This may include using mild, gentle cleansers, incorporating moisturisers with ingredients like ceramides, glycerol and hyaluronic acid, and avoiding double cleansing on a regular basis,” Dr Seema Oberoi Lall, consultant, dermatology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, told indianexpress.com.

Additionally, staying well-hydrated by drinking enough water and avoiding excessive sun exposure can contribute to overall skin health, advised Dr Pooja Aggarwal, consultant- dermatology & cosmetology, Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon.

2. Are facial oils necessary?

Dr Panth recommended opting for a good moisturiser over facial oil. However, for those who prefer using oils, she suggested trying squalene, known for being non-comedogenic and soothing.

On the other hand, Dr Lall said that facial oils can provide intense hydration and help seal in moisture, giving dry and ageing skin the much-required nourishment and lubrication. When incorporating facial oils in your routine, it’s important to do a patch test and introduce the oil gradually to see how your skin responds. “Do not use mustard or similar oils with strong fragrances. Some of them can be occlusive if used for long hours. It is best to use these oils before bathing,” she suggested.

3. Does an effective skincare routine have to be expensive?

“Absolutely not,” said Dr Panth, adding that “you can build a simple skincare routine which is effective”. All you need to do is understand your skincare goals and treat only one or two concerns at a time.

Similarly, Dr Lall said that many pharmaceutical grade products are available as cleansers, moisturisers and night creams at competitive pricing at pharmacies. “Your dermatologist can help you choose the best products tailored to your skincare needs.”

Dr Aggarwal urged to not to use any product on your skin just because it is expensive. “Expensive does not mean better,” she said.

4. Are hydrating serums important for nighttime skincare routines?

Dr Panth said that hydrating serums help in keeping skin moisturised for longer, especially if you have dry skin. Agreeing, Dr Lall explained that nighttime provides a long, uninterrupted time for products to get absorbed, so hydrating serums are a good idea during nights.

“Snail mucin, hyaluronic acid and ceramides, are ingredients I look for in serums for nighttime,” Dr Panth recommended.

5. Should we increase the strength of retinol after every 6 months?

While Dr Panth deemed it unnecessary, Dr Aggarwal suggested to wait for at least 6-8 weeks before increasing the strength of retinol in your skin care routine. “While there is no specific time period when it comes to increasing the strength of retinol, it depends on how the skin responds to the retinol treatment,” she said.

Consult a dermatologist regarding the use of retinol and the duration after which its strength must be increased in the skincare routine.

 

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