Any good dermatologist will tell you that beauty is not skin deep; in fact, it’s the layers of skin that protect our beauty. More precisely, the outermost layer of skin called the stratum corneum is the first bastion of protection. This deceptively thin barrier containing keratin, ceramides, fatty acids, etc. stands between every individual and the world.

A healthy skin barrier’s function is twofold–primarily, it prevents aggravated loss of moisture from the deeper layers; and, secondly, it keeps foreign agents and toxins from entering the sub-dermal gateway and doing any damage. If the barrier fails at its job, it’s a sign that your skin needs help.

Signs that spell breaching of the skin barrier

• Dry, scaly skin that constantly itches
• Adult acne, discolouration or inflamed patches
• Regular skin infections

Other than age, most of the less-than-ideal conditions of our environment can play havoc with our skin barrier.

• Unbalanced environmental conditions such as too little humidity or too much
• Heightened sun exposure
• Exposure to harsh chemicals such as alkaline detergents, steroids, allergens, pollutants
• Stress and worry
• Genetic conditions that makes one prone to skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis

Bolster the skin care routine in your 50s

A good skin care routine is always built around simple factors such as one’s age, immediate environment and the specific nature of the skin. And while products can be switched up to suit personal requirements, the procedure generally stays the same, cleanse and tone

According to the well-loved cleanse-tone-moisturise (CTM) method, the foundation of good skin is proper cleansing. Mature skin benefits from mild cleansers that don’t strip natural oils from the skin. Hence, oil and cream cleansers are gaining popularity with 50-year-olds. Oil cleansers work great with removing every shred of stubborn make-up without playing nasty with your skin’s pH balance, while cream cleansers are good for regular, light make-up days or for an additional cleansing step, where necessary. 

Toners soothe and hydrate skin, and can also act as the first anti-aging layer in the routine if it comprises hyaluronic acids (HA), glycerin, and similar ingredients. These help with fine lines and dryness by countering the plunging levels of natural HA.

Exfoliate with care or opt for masks

Since skin is really thin and delicate at 50, exfoliate with caution. Opt for gentle scrubs containing glycolic and salicylic acids that work best for mature skin, and indulge only once a week. Avoid rigorous scrubbing—a light touch is enough.

Massage skin with soothing oils 

Regular massage with plant oils like Jojoba or Argan containing fatty acids and antioxidants improve the moisture levels and have proven to be most beneficial to the skin.

Add specialised serums and moisturisers in that order

Serums are products with higher concentrations of HA, Vitamin C or similar ingredients than are found in creams and they build the skin barrier’s resilience. Choose one suiting your skin and remember to add a heavy moisturiser to seal it in.

Add the necessary specialised treatments  

Skin in the 50s may need a little extra care such as an eye or lip cream. Such treatments should keep dryness and wrinkles in specific areas at bay. Don’t be afraid to consult a dermatologist to opt for prescription treatments and peels when necessary.

Your skin barrier is a soldier that needs help to fight off external threats; arm it by using sunscreen daily and humidifiers in dry winters, and by eating healthy and hydrating regularly.

We can also opt for injectable skin remodeling treatment like Profhilo, which has a range of treatments that can help to keep our skin hydrated and nourished over the winter season. These include fractional mesotherapy, skin boosters and lip fillers. Contact your expert to discuss the best-suited treatment.

The writer is Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi , Dermatologist  at Medlinks, New Delhi