If you've been with us since the beginning, you might have noticed that we never use the term "anti-aging." Instead, we've always prioritized keeping skin healthy for longer. It's about taking care of your skin's health at every stage, building a habit using products that aim to prevent facial sagging and dark spots rather than chasing fleeting youth.
Aging redefined
In the past, reaching 50 (or even 40) often meant feeling and looking "old." However, according to a recent study by the American Psychological Association, people perceive old age as starting later compared to previous generations. Women, especially, are challenging traditional standards of maturity. This shift in perspective is due to several factors, including increased health awareness, improved access to high-quality skincare products, and preventive self-care practices. This is particularly relevant for those concerned about maintaining an even skin tone and addressing facial sagging as they age.
On Broadway and in the West End, actors in their 70s and 80s are called "young-old." This shows how times have changed and how we are leaving ageism behind. @tahira_makeup from Brighton said in one of her recent posts: "Age is a badge of honor, proof of time and life lived," and "for me, age is power." We could also add, "Age is also wisdom."
Are Millennials aging differently?
A recurring theme on TikTok is the apparent difference in the aging process between Millennials (1981-1996) and Generation Z (1998 and 2012). Millennials often receive praise for their youthful appearance compared to previous generations, and their emphasis on healthy eating, SPF use, and consistent skincare routines focused on maintaining glowing skin and preventing facial sagging seems to slow down the aging process. Ironically, Generation Z, who has even more access to information, appears to be older. Overexposure to vaping, pressure to meet unrealistic beauty standards, and undergoing cosmetic procedures at a young age have contributed to premature aging in some cases.
Beauty doesn't peak: It evolves
It seems the beauty world is finally embracing reality. We are moving away from the concept of constantly fighting aging and adopting the idea of wellaging, which we translate as the art of aging well. This celebrates the natural evolution of beauty throughout life and encourages us to adopt healthy habits that promote glowing skin at every stage of our lives.
Let's set aside chronological age: genetics, lifestyle, and sun exposure are more influential factors in how our skin changes. The start of the journey towards more mature skin happens at different rates for each person.
The new anti-aging frontier: Even tone and increased collagen
So, how can we apply the well-aging concept in everyday life? Nowadays, skincare enthusiasts are less concerned with wrinkle removal and more focused on maintaining an even tone and preventing facial sagging for longer.
As the years pass, concerns about skin spots and uneven tone become more common. These problems arise due to sun damage, inflammation (caused by various reasons such as stress and pollution), and hormonal fluctuations.
How to achieve plump and glowing skin?
- Sun protection: Daily use of an SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential. Mineral filters with zinc oxide offer high protection against UVA and UVB rays, the main culprits of hyperpigmentation.
- Tyrosinase inhibition: This enzyme is responsible for melanin production. Look for products with ingredients like yarrow, mint, or niacinamide to regulate melanin production and achieve a more even tone over time.
- Antioxidant power: Free radicals contribute to hyperpigmentation and overall skin aging. Antioxidants like artemisia umbelliformis, buddleja davidii, and epilobium neutralize free radicals, protecting the skin from potential damage and preventing accelerated aging.
Our recommendations for an even skin tone:
- Ideal Brightening Corrective Serum: Combines 12 botanical extracts to combat existing dark spots and prevent future ones. Its delicate formula is suitable for all skin types and can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The innovation lies in its non-photosensitive formula, allowing you to use it both day and night.
- Artemisia Power Protection Moisturiser SPF50+: A mineral-based, non-nano SPF moisturizer with a matte finish. Features buddleja extract to repair UV damage.
Facial sagging: A new approach
The Y-zone (jawline, chin, and neck) is the focus for one of the visible signs of aging, such as facial sagging. Habits like using mobile phones (with the face tilted downwards) and sun exposure can worsen it. Firmness is one of consumers' main concerns, and many seek products in this category even from their 30s. Traditionally, cosmetic products with a firming action were designed for an older clientele, but the rules of the game are changing. Although retinol has been the most common ingredient for treating lack of firmness for decades, it now faces restrictions from the EU. But fortunately, there are other active ingredients we can turn to.
A good strategy to follow is to strengthen your skin's collagen and elastin (youth proteins) with a good dose of antioxidants and plant peptides. Providing these ingredients helps the outermost layers of the epidermis neutralize free radicals, stimulate the natural production of these proteins, and simultaneously protect the existing matrix.
At Twelve Beauty, we also champion biotechnological ingredients and the latest botanical advances, which are very innovative.
Two are particularly noteworthy in this case:
- Bidens pilosa takes a unique approach. It uses the same retinoid receptors without the common side effects of retinol.
- Munju peptides act as "skin architects," organizing collagen fibers to create a gravity-defying support network. This results in firmer skin.
Both ingredients are excellent news for sensitive skin.
How to Combat Facial Sagging: Plant Perfection Gel Serum
For those seeking a retinol-free option, Plant Perfection Gel Serum offers a complete solution. It combines bidens pilosa with four other powerful ingredients:
- Bacillus Ferment: Promotes skin protein synthesis for a firmer, more radiant, and evenly toned complexion.
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-72 Amide: The true "skin architect," it optimizes collagen structure for better support.
- Collagen Amino Acids: Identical to human type I collagen, they strengthen skin structure and protect it from environmental damage.
- Nannochloropsis Oculata Extract: This microalgae extract provides both immediate and long-term firming benefits.
Makeup for More Mature Skin Too
Just as our skin changes throughout life, our makeup routine should also adapt. Heavy foundations and mattifying powder products that work well for younger skin can dry out and emphasize fine lines on more mature skin, which naturally has fewer lipids. Opt for a more natural look with lightweight, hydrating formulas that enhance your natural beauty instead of concealing it. Consider tinted moisturizers for a touch of coverage or explore natural self-tanners like Glow Island.
The lesson we can learn is to stop searching for the fountain of youth: the true key to lasting beauty lies in embracing and enjoying the journey that is life. By prioritizing practices that promote healthy skin, such as maintaining an even skin tone and combating facial sagging, you can achieve a healthier look that reflects your inner confidence at all stages of life.