We ask the skin pros to tell us what happens to skin over the years and how we can make it beautiful at any age.
Teens
Skin prognosis: Collagen and elastin levels are at their peak during your teenage years. "Teenage skin is very plump with collagen and elastin," says cosmetic physician Dr Garry Cussell at the Facial Rejuvenation Clinic in Sydney. "There are no signs of lines or wrinkles, the texture of the skin is fine, and pores are tight."
Find out more about skincare in your teens
Twenties
Skin prognosis: This is the decade of relatively problem-free skin. "Most people's skin in their early twenties will be even in colour and texture and will spring back into shape quickly if gently pinched," says cosmetic doctor Geoffrey Heber. "For most people, unless preventive measures are put in place, their skin will never be better than now."
Find out more about skincare in your twenties
Thirties
Skin prognosis: In your thirties, skin elasticity can start to dwindle and pigmentation starts to appear. "Frown lines, smile lines and forehead lines due to overactive muscles are an issue for this age group," says cosmetic doctor Joseph Ajaka. Dermatologist Natasha Cook agrees. "Crows feet kick in around the eyes, while those who frown a lot will notice a vertical groove appearing between the eyebrows. Horizontal lines on the forehead become a fixture as well, as are subtle lines around the mouth," she says.
Find out more about skincare in your thirties
Forties
Skin prognosis: "The changes first observed in the twenties become more prominent in the forties," says cosmetic doctor Geoffrey Heber. "Blotchy, brown skin discolouration becomes more obvious, fine wrinkling spreads from just around the eyes to the cheeks and elsewhere and the skin becomes drier and rougher." Dermatologist Natasha Cook agrees. "Blotchy skin can start to appear, especially in those who have been sun lovers. Skin can also start to appear sallow in colour due to breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres in the dermis."
Find out more about skincare in your forties
Fifties
Skin prognosis: "Loss of skin elasticity is usually becoming more prominent at this age," says cosmetic doctor Geoffrey Heber. "If the head is bent forward, skin folds which were not apparent before will now show. Skin discolouration, texture and dryness without prior treatment will worsen."
Find out more about skincare in your fifties
Sixties
Skin prognosis: Hormone changes in the sixties can affect the complexion. "Changes with hormones affect the skin enormously," says cosmetic physician Dr Garry Cussell. "Loss of volume and elasticity cause sagging and a lot of lines and creases. There are often brown marks and redness on the skin due to sun damage."
Find out more about skincare in your sixties
