Debunking anti-ageing skincare myths: what really works
Our skin tells a story, shaped by things like genetics, environment, and lifestyle. While we can't stop ageing, a good skincare routine and healthy lifestyle can make a big difference to the overall appearance of your skin.
Taking care of our skin isn't just about looks, it's about feeling good and taking care of our overall health. We spoke with Monique Vincent, nib Clinical Advisor and Cosmetic Nurse, explore simple ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing at any age.
Unveiling the myths of anti-ageing skincare
Before you invest in your next cream or treatment, arm yourself with some science around skincare.
Myth 1: getting great value from your skincare
With skincare, the price tag doesn’t always reflect a product’s effectiveness. What counts are the quality of the ingredients and the formulation. Sometimes, a high price is more about branding and packaging than real benefits for your skin.
Before you buy, consider how much you’re comfortable spending and what you’re getting for your money.
"Skincare isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, especially when it comes to active ingredients, which is main thing in your skincare that helps the product work as promised,” says Monique. (Keep reading for a list of common active ingredients in anti-ageing skincare products).
'If you’re unsure, a consultation with a cosmetic nurse can help point you in the right direction. Read the label to understand the ingredients and take the time to compare your options."
Tip: Learn how to interpret skincare product labels to help you understand product claims and potential benefits.
Don’t forget to read reviews from other users to see if the product lives up to its claims. With a little research, you can find effective skincare products that won’t break the bank.
Myth 2: immediate results are a sign of effectiveness
Seeing real benefits from skincare takes time. While some products give instant results, like a temporary tightening effect, they might not be useful long term. Usually, it takes a few weeks to a few months to notice real changes depending on the product you're using.
So how do you know if your skincare is actually working? First, be patient. Stick with your routine and track any changes (take progress photos). Remember, tingling or burning doesn’t mean a product is effective; it can be a sign or irritation.
“When starting a product with a new active ingredient, it's always best to begin with a lower concentration and introduce it gradually, especially for stronger ingredients like Vitamin A or C. That way, you can ease your skin into the routine and avoid irritation,” Monique suggests.
Just because you can 'feel’ it working doesn’t mean it actually is. Always talk to a health professional if your skin becomes irritated.
Myth 3: natural and organic products are always safer and more effective
Natural and organic products often steal the spotlight, but they're not always the safest or most effective options. The term natural or synthetic only tells us how an ingredient is sourced or made, not how it will affect your skin. For example, lavender and tea tree oil, while natural, can sometimes cause reactions or allergies.
"The best way to ‘naturally’ slow down the signs of ageing is to protect your skin from the sun. UV exposure is responsible about 80% of visible ageing, so if SPF isn’t a part of your daily skincare routine, it's definitely the best place to start!” says Monique.
Recommended: Understand your skin type and associated skin cancer risk with our free Skin Health Assessment tool.
Myth 4: the more products in your routine, the better
Having a complex skincare routine doesn’t necessarily mean better results. In fact, piling on too many products can overwhelm your skin and lead to irritation. The key is simplicity.
Monique shares her top skincare products:
“A basic routine that suits most skin types could include a cleanser, vitamin B serum, moisturiser, and SPF. If you're using active ingredients like Vitamin C and retinol (Vitamin A), remember that they can be a bit harsh and are usually applied at different times – Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night.”
“If you don’t know where to start, speak to a healthcare professional.”
Understanding what works in anti-ageing skincare
It’s easy to believe in the snake-oil claims of skincare products that promise miracles for improved skin appearance overnight. A healthy dose of scepticism and some knowledge of what actually works to support healthy-looking skin can save you money and reduce the risk of buying products that have only limited benefits.
The role of sun protection
We know you’ve heard it before, but protecting your skin from the sun really is the best way to prevent premature ageing. The sun’s UV rays can speed up the ageing process, leading to dryness, dark patches, fine lines, and wrinkles on your face, neck, and décolletage.
But here’s the good news: it’s never too late to start protecting your skin.
Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. Opt for water-resistant formulas and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or exercising. And don’t skip sunscreen on cloudy days – UV rays can still reach your skin.
Recommended: Sunscreen myths and mistakes
Evidence-based ingredients
Certain skincare ingredients are renowned for their anti-aging benefits. Niacinamide, for instance, may help even out your complexion, while retinoids can increase the production of collagen to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid plays a crucial role in keeping your skin hydrated and flexible. Vitamin C is another powerhouse. It aids in wound healing, combats oxidative stress and protects against UV damage, all while reducing the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots and acne.
Although clinical trials show the effectiveness of these ingredients, remember in Australia, over-the-counter products are only tested for safety, not efficacy.
Lifestyle factors that may influence skin ageing
Healthy age-related skin changes are about as inevitable as outlandish costumes at Eurovision. But here’s the good news: you can manage some of the external factors that make wrinkles, dark spots, and thinning skin worse. Prevention often beats trying to reverse the damage later on.
Diet and hydration
Want glowing skin? It starts with what you eat and drink.
"A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats can nourish your skin from within. Think colourful fruits and veggies, fatty fish, nuts, and plenty of water. These foods help keep your skin supple and hydrated, fight wrinkles and dark spots, and improve overall texture. Hydrate well by drinking a minimum of two litres of water daily. You'll feel great inside and out," says Monique.
Recommended: Water vs electrolytes: What is best for hydration?
Reducing stress for skin health
Managing stress is really important for keeping your skin looking its best. Studies show that chronic stress can have a negative effect on skin ageing. As of today, there is no proven medical treatment that can either prevent or treat stress-related skin ageing. Rather than treating the symptoms, tackle the causes of stress. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, and if you're feeling overwhelmed, talk to a healthcare professional for support with your mental wellbeing.
Recommended: Why you’re still tired after eight hours of sleep
Avoid smoking
Looking for another reason to quit smoking? Beyond the countless health benefits, quitting can also help keep your skin looking youthful. Smoking is known to speed up skin damage caused by the sun. While the effects might not show up until your 30s or 40s, they often appear as fine lines around your mouth.
Recommended: 9 reasons to quit smoking today
When to consult a professional
“No matter where you are on your skincare journey, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional,” Monique suggests. “Many clinics have cosmetic nurses who can offer in-depth skin consultations and recommend products and treatments that could work wonders for you.”
Unsure about the best treatment for your skin? As a nib member, you can get quick consultations, fully managed treatments, and fast delivery right to your door through our partner, hub.health.
Make sure to get a skin check every year, and if anything ever concerns you, don't hesitate to bring it up with your doctor. They can offer guidance and refer you to a dermatologist if needed. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Start by taking our free skin assessment to understand your risk of skin cancer and stay proactive about your skin health.
Monique finishes by reminding us:
"It’s natural to want to look your best, but it's also important to remember that age-related skin changes are normal, and it's okay to get older. Speak with your GP or a mental health support service like Lifeline if you are experiencing negative thoughts about your appearance."
The information in this article is general in nature and should not replace personalised advice given to you by a medical professional.