Keep it simple with my 4 anti-aging steps – there’s a ‘non-negotiable’ in the morning & ‘skin superhero’ at night

DEFYING the signs of aging can be achieved with a simple four-step skincare routine, according to an expert. 

Dr. Sonia Khorana shared effective ingredients and tips for a youthful appearance. 

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Dr. Khorana is a GP & Dermatology Expert at the UK-based company Hero Cosmetics. 

Speaking to The U.S. Sun, she shared a must-try anti-aging routine.

INCREDIBLE INGREDIENTS

Dr. Khorana said three skincare ingredients should be used regularly alongside sunscreen for a youthful appearance.

Retinoids top her list as they help to stimulate collagen production, increase skin cell turnover, and help reduce pores and fine lines. 

The next most important ingredient works wonders on complexion. 

“Vitamin C is a brilliant antioxidant, which fights free radical damage, brightens the skin, fades hyperpigmentation, and stimulates collagen,” she said. 

“It inhibits melanin production by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, this interferes with abnormal pigmentation.”

Peptides are another key ingredient for improving skin texture, tone, elasticity, and firmness.

Dr. Khorana said peptides are chains of amino acids that are the building blocks for proteins such as collagen, elastin, and keratin.

She revealed that the powerhouse ingredients shouldn’t be used by younger people.

“There is so much inappropriate usage of retinoids at the moment amongst teens and tweens,” she said.

SIMPLE STEPS

Dr. Khorana said collagen starts to decline after your mid-20s.

Anti-aging ingredients such as those mentioned should be used from your late 20s onward.

Beauty products should “always” be applied from thinnest to thickest consistency. 

“To get the most benefit out of a regular skin care regimen, you only need to follow a few simple steps: cleanse, treat, moisturize, and protect,” she said.

She recommended cleansing in the morning to start the day on a “clean slate” as well as in the evening.

Double cleansing isn’t vital unless the skin is oily or you have been wearing heavy makeup.

She warned that overwashing can cause "dryness, sensitivity, and irritation."

Cleansing should be followed with treatments, such as vitamin C serum in the morning and retinoids in the evening. 

“During the daytime, look for antioxidants such as Vitamin C, which fights free radical damage,” Dr. Khorana said.

“This should be done before you moisturize and use your SPF. 

SPF is a non-negotiable part of your morning skincare routine and make sure your sunscreen is broad-spectrum.

“At night, I would advise using a retinoid.

“It is a skin superhero and can help with rebuilding collagen, fading hyperpigmentation, textural irregularities, and oil control.”

Products known for their moisturizing properties are the third step in an anti-aging routine. 

“Ingredients to look out for are ceramides, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and squalane,” she said.

“Even if you have oily or combination skin, it’s still important to moisturize.

"You can tailor the texture and thickness to suit you."

Step four only needs to be followed in the morning.

“SPF is a non-negotiable part of your morning skincare routine and make sure your sunscreen is broad-spectrum," she said.

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