9 Ways To Reverse Skin Aging Backed By Science

By Daisy Jing 

Aging skin is a completely normal part of growing older, but it doesn't mean we have to look our age, and it's okay to want to look the best we can!  Even if I did live a hard life, I don’t want to necessarily look like it, right?

When it comes to aging gracefully,  here are tips backed by science that we can all implement at home to help reverse and prevent premating skin aging.

What Causes Skin Aging?  

Once we hit the age of 20, our body produces less collagen each year which contributes to signs of aging skin such as: looser skin, sagging, texture, and enlarged pores.  

The other large factor that can cause skin to look older is discoloration from hyperpigmentation which is typically caused by sun damage.  

Other factors include lifestyle habits like pollution, exercise levels, diet, and alcohol and smoking habits.  

1. Start Early

 

After the age of 20, your body naturally produces 1% less collagen every single year, so which is the protein that makes up the foundation of skin.  Losing collagen contributes to the sagging and shallow look of skin so starting early can make a huge difference in how skin ages decades later. 

2. Wear Sunscreen 

UV radiation from the sun is one of the leading causes of premature aging. Studies show that sun exposure accounts for up to 80% skin aging such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.  Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Tip: Look for sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are physical blockers that reflect UV rays. Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses can also shield your skin from sun damage.

 

3. Cleanse Skin Gently

Using harsh cleansers or scrubbing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Research suggests that maintaining a healthy skin barrier is essential for preventing water loss and protecting against environmental damage.

Opt for sulfate-free and alcohol-free cleansers that clean without disrupting the skin’s moisture levels. Natural oils or micellar water be used to remove makeup without damaging the skin.   If using an oil, use your cleanser to wash the skin after. 

 

4. Keep Skin Hydrated with Moisturizer

 

Keeping skin hydrated boosts skin elasticity to prevent skin aging. A good moisturizer helps trap water in the skin and prevents dryness. Dry skin can accentuate wrinkles. Ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin are known to boost hydration.

Avoid products with parabens, silicones, as these can clog pores or cause long-term skin irritation when used regularly. 

Recommended Moisturiser: Alpha Vitamin C Creme 

5. Use Antioxidants Like Vitamin C

 

Topical antioxidants like vitamin C can neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage skin cells and accelerate aging.

Studies have shown that vitamin C boosts collagen production, brightens skin, and reduces fine lines. For example, a review published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology shares that topical vitamin C also provides photoprotection, making it a key ingredient in anti-aging skincare.

Incorporating serums or creams with stable forms of vitamin C, such as L-ascorbic acid, can enhance your skincare routine. For best results, pair antioxidants with sunscreen to amplify their protective effects.

Read the ingredients in the back of the label if there’s anything like alcohol or  ethanol. If it’s one of the main ingredients, skip it.

6. Try Microneedling

 

Microneedling has gained popularity for its ability to stimulate collagen production with little side effects. It works by pressing tiny needles into the skin to create micro-injuries,  triggering the body’s natural healing process to produce new collagen and elastin.

Clinical studies published in Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, have demonstrated significant improvements in skin texture, scars, and fine lines after microneedling.

Using serums with active ingredients like vitamin C or peptides after treatment can enhance the results. 

Nowadays microneedling can also be done at home too to save on time and costs.

Recommended Tool: Banish Kit 3.0 

6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutrient Dense Foods

 

What you put into your body matters just as much as what you put on your skin. Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin hydrated from the inside out.  Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support skin health.

Key nutrients for anti-aging:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in salmon and flaxseeds, these improve skin elasticity.

• Vitamin E: Found in nuts and seeds, it protects against oxidative stress.

• Vitamin A (Retinoids): Promotes cell turnover and reduces fine lines.

• Vitamin C: Promotes collagen and wound healing in skin. 

 

8. Manage Stress and Sleep Well

 

According to research, chronic stress and poor sleep accelerate aging by increasing cortisol levels, which break down collagen. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to allow your skin to repair itself. Practices like meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can help manage stress.

9. Consider Surgical Options Wisely

Procedures like Botox and facelifts can be effective, but they are not a replacement for good skincare and preventating aging.  Start off with the tips above and on a consistent skincare routine before opting for surgical procedures as they come with more risks.  

Aging is a natural process, so try to embrace it with confidence. By incorporating scientifically-proven strategies like sunscreen use, gentle cleansing, hydration, and collagen stimulation, you can slow down the visible signs of aging and maintain healthy skin. 

Comment below guys! I really want to know what your number one anti-aging tip is or if you know somebody who looks amazing for their age, let me know what their routine is!  

References: 1. Flament F, Bazin R, Laquieze S, Rubert V, Simonpietri E, Piot B. Effect of the sun on visible clinical signs of aging in Caucasian skin. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2013 Sep 27;6:221-32. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S44686. PMID: 24101874; PMCID: PMC3790843.

2. Firas Al-Niaimi, MRCP(UK)(Derm), and Nicole Yi Zhen Chiang, MRCP(UK)(Derm),  Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications  J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017;10(7):14–17

3. Gupta, Meghna1,; Barman, Krishna Deb1; Sarkar, Rashmi2. A Comparative Study of Microneedling Alone Versus Along with Platelet-Rich Plasma in Acne Scars. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 14(1):p 64-71, Jan–Mar 2021. | DOI: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_190_20 

4.Palma L, Marques LT, Bujan J, Rodrigues LM. Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015 Aug 3;8:413-21. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S86822. PMID: 26345226; PMCID: PMC4529263.

5.The skin aging exposome
Krutmann, Jean et al.
Journal of Dermatological Science, Volume 85, Issue 3, 152 - 161