Anti-aging, Anti-Aging Care

Anti-aging, also known as anti-aging care, is the general term for holistic skin care, dermatology, and lifestyle strategies designed to slow the skin's aging process, alleviate existing signs of aging (wrinkles, loss of elasticity, blemishes), and maintain skin health. The primary goal of anti -aging care is to promote the preservation of building blocks like collagen and elastin, increase cellular repair, reduce the harmful effects of environmental factors (sun, pollution, etc.), and promote a younger, healthier, and more vibrant skin in the long term. Key methods scientifically proven to be effective include regular moisturizing , sunscreen use, retinoids, vitamins C and E, peptides, antioxidants, and regular lifestyle habits (healthy diet, sleep, and exercise).

Various sources indicate that the ideal time to start anti-aging care and products is in your early to mid-20s, as this is when collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production in the skin begins to decline, and environmental damage begins to accumulate. Dermatology experts emphasize that basic steps like sunscreen and moisturizer use can begin in adolescence, while incorporating active ingredients like retinol , antioxidants, and peptides into your skincare routine from your mid-20s onward can help lessen the signs of aging later in life. It's not too late to establish a manageable and sustainable care routine; however, it's recommended to gradually add anti-aging products based on your skin's needs.

The most effective vitamins for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and promoting a youthful-looking complexion are scientifically recognized as vitamin A (retinol/retinoid derivatives) and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) . Vitamin A derivatives (such as retinol and adapalene) promote collagen and glycosaminoglycan production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles; accelerating skin renewal and strengthening skin tissue. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, protects skin against free radical damage, supports collagen synthesis, and helps alleviate signs of sun-induced aging.

Additionally, vitamins E and B3 (niacinamide) support the skin barrier, increasing hydration, improving skin tone evenness and overall radiance. Clinical research shows that when used regularly and appropriately, these vitamins can significantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin health.

The most effective scientific methods for preventing facial aging include sun protection (using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, year-round), regular use of moisturizers and antioxidant-containing skincare products (like vitamin C), adding collagen-supporting active ingredients like retinol or peptides to your nighttime routine, and meticulous skin cleansing. Limiting smoking and alcohol consumption, drinking plenty of water, eating a balanced diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats), regular sleep, and effectively managing stress are also vital habits that preserve youthful skin. Maintaining these healthy lifestyle and care steps at all ages is the most scientifically supported approach to delaying facial aging.

To use an anti-aging serum, first gently cleanse the skin; then, apply a few drops of the serum to the palm of your hand and gently massage it onto your face and neck until completely absorbed. Moisturizer should be applied after the serum, and sunscreen should be applied during the day. Depending on the active ingredients (e.g., serums like vitamin C, niacinamide , and hyaluronic acid are usually morning and/or evening; serums like retinol or bakuchiol or tranexamic acid are usually nighttime), frequency of use should be as recommended by a dermatologist or as specified in the product leaflet. Sensitive individuals should gradually increase the frequency of use until their skin adapts to the product. Patience and consistent use for a sufficient period (usually at least 6–12 weeks) are essential for achieving results.

The main anti-aging products recommended by scientific authorities include creams containing retinol and retinoids (vitamin A derivatives that increase collagen production and reduce wrinkles), vitamin C serums (antioxidant, collagen-supporting, and blemish-reducing properties), products containing niacinamide (vitamin B3) (strengthens the skin barrier, reduces unevenness and sensitivity), hyaluronic acid serums and creams (provides moisture and plumpness), and sunscreens (SPF) (protection against UV rays is the most effective anti-aging method). Bakuchiol ( a retinol -like effect that can be used on sensitive skin as a herbal alternative), peptide-containing serums and creams , and products containing collagen and ceramide are also important components of anti-aging care. With regular use, these active ingredients reduce the appearance of wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and blemishes.

The foundation of anti-aging care is sun protection, proper cleansing, moisturizing, and the regular use of skincare products with anti-aging ingredients. Cleanse your skin every morning and evening with a gentle cleanser. Then, apply antioxidant serums like vitamin C in the morning and regenerative active ingredients like retinol or niacinamide preferably at night. Moisturize your skin with a moisturizer. At the end of your morning routine, apply sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 every day of the year. Chemical or physical exfoliation once or twice a week can promote skin renewal by removing dead skin cells.

For success, lifestyle habits such as not smoking, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management must be incorporated into the program. Product selection and frequency of application should be tailored to your skin type, age, needs, and sensitivities, in consultation with a dermatologist. Scientific sources emphasize that making this routine sustainable and personalized is the most effective long-term anti-aging approach.

Choosing anti-aging ingredients according to skin type is important for both effectiveness and skin health.

For dry skin, serums and creams containing moisturizers such as hyaluronic acid, ceramide, and glycerin, along with vitamin C, peptides, and vitamin E, should be at the forefront; these ingredients provide both intense moisture and collagen support.

For oily and acne-prone skin , non-comedogenic, light-textured moisturizers with active ingredients that promote cell renewal without clogging pores, such as niacinamide, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and mild retinol (low-dose vitamin A derivatives), should be preferred.

Alcohol, perfume and harsh acids should be avoided on sensitive skin ; instead, bakuchiol (retinol alternative), niacinamide and antioxidants (e.g. vitamin E, avena sativa/oat) should be chosen and mineral sunscreens (zinc, titanium dioxide) should be used.

For mature skin , vitamin A derivatives (retinol, retinaldehyde), peptides, and vitamin C stand out as key ingredients that support collagen production. For all skin types, sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential for the daily routine.

Using combined ingredients appropriate for your skin type, as recommended by a dermatologist, offers an anti-aging approach that is both effective and safe in the long term.

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type is crucial for both effective protection and preventing unwanted skin reactions. When choosing a sunscreen for dry skin , choose moisturizing creams containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin.

For oily and acne-prone skin , water-based, gel or mattifying, non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) formulas, light sunscreens containing niacinamide or green tea are recommended.

For sensitive skin, mineral (physical) sunscreens, i.e. products containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, alcohol-free and fragrance-free, carry less risk of irritation and are often recommended.

For normal skin types , both chemical and mineral sunscreen formulas can be used safely, depending on the desired texture and additional benefits.

For all skin types, sunscreen should be broad spectrum (providing UVA+UVB protection), minimum SPF 30, and should be reapplied every two hours during the day or immediately after contact with sweat/water.

To use an anti-aging serum, first gently cleanse the skin. Then, apply a few drops of the serum to the palm of your hand and gently massage it onto your face and neck until completely absorbed. Moisturizer should be applied after the serum , and sunscreen should be applied during the day. Depending on the active ingredients (e.g., serums like vitamin C , niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid should be used morning and/or evening; serums like retinol or bakuchiol or tranexamic acid should be used at night), frequency of use should be as recommended by a dermatologist or as indicated in the product leaflet. Sensitive individuals should gradually increase the frequency of use until their skin adapts to the product. Patience and consistent use for a sufficient period (usually at least 6–12 weeks) are essential for achieving results.

The main factor that accelerates skin aging is unprotected exposure to the sun (UV rays) , including sunburn, tanning beds, and frequent exposure to sunscreen. UV radiation triggers free radical formation and collagen breakdown, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles, blemishes, and loss of elasticity. It is responsible for up to 80% of skin aging. Smoking, air pollution, an unhealthy diet (high in sugar and processed foods), lack of sleep, excessive stress, and alcohol consumption all increase free radical stress on the skin, slowing cellular repair and accelerating the aging process. Clinical research shows that despite anti-aging care routines , aging progresses significantly and accelerates skin that is not adequately protected from these external factors.

The facial aging process begins biologically around the mid-20s; during this period, collagen and elastin production declines, and fine wrinkles and the initial loss of elasticity become visible. After age 25, collagen synthesis declines by approximately 1% annually, and fine lines become the first signs, especially in sensitive areas like the eye area. From age 30 onward, skin moisture loss, mild pigment irregularities, and volume deficiencies become apparent; the aging process can accelerate differently depending on individual genetics and environmental factors (sun, smoking, lifestyle). Therefore, it is scientifically recommended to begin anti-aging care and protective habits in your mid-20s.

The most common assessment methods used by dermatologists to monitor signs of premature aging include a physical dermatological examination to assess skin surface area, elasticity, and color changes, detailed digital skin analysis, standardized photography and measurement techniques, and skin biomechanics testing. Findings such as wrinkle depth, loss of elasticity, pigmentation (blemishes), and overall skin texture are scored and recorded by the specialist using various clinical skin aging scales. Additionally, specialized skin aging analyzers or laboratory tests that test aging biomarkers (e.g., collagen, elastin, transepidermal water loss) can be used to identify potential biochemical changes in skin structure and function.

When deemed necessary, additional blood tests such as biological age, hormone panel, and vitamin and mineral levels can be requested by dermatologists and anti-aging clinics to determine genetic predisposition or systemic factors. Regular dermatological checkups allow for professional monitoring of signs of premature aging and, when necessary, the recommendation of appropriate care or treatment protocols.

Scientifically, the first fine wrinkles and facial expression lines generally begin to appear around age 25 ; this is because collagen and elastin production decreases starting in the mid-20s. Light lines caused by facial expressions appear first, particularly in sensitive areas like the eye area and around the lips. Wrinkles and volume loss become more pronounced after age 30. The first wrinkles may appear earlier in fair-skinned individuals who lack sun protection, smokers, and those who make frequent facial expressions.

Scientific sources and dermatologists suggest that the ideal starting point for collagen cream use is age 25 and up, when collagen production begins to biologically decline. Especially in our 30s, when signs of premature aging such as fine lines, dullness, and loss of elasticity begin to appear, topical collagen and supportive care products offer additional benefits in maintaining the skin's moisture retention and plumpness. For preventative and supportive benefits, products like collagen cream can be a regular part of our routine starting in our late 20s; however, the most common age for collagen cream use is after our 30s.

Active ingredients that scientifically increase collagen production and provide effective collagen support include: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), Vitamin E (tocopherol), Vitamin B3 (niacinamide), minerals such as copper, zinc, and manganese , hyaluronic acid , retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), peptides , essential amino acids such as proline, glycine, hydroxyproline, and lysine , and antioxidants (e.g., grape seed, coenzyme Q10, astaxanthin). Dermatologists emphasize that combinations of vitamin C , niacinamide , peptides, and hyaluronic acid, especially in serums and creams, have been proven to both stimulate natural collagen synthesis and increase skin plumpness and elasticity. Furthermore, copper peptides are among the most potent and biologically acceptable ingredients that stimulate collagen production. These substances have been shown in experimental and clinical studies to actively stimulate collagen synthesis and lead to significant improvements in skin health.

Foods with the highest collagen content and nutritional recommendations to support collagen synthesis include: Bone broth, all meats (especially bone-in chicken, red meat, fish, and seafood eaten with the skin), and egg whites are the richest natural sources of collagen. These animal sources contain both collagen and essential amino acids (glycine, proline, lysine).

To support collagen production, it's recommended to include plenty of vitamin C (oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, peppers, broccoli, tomatoes) , zinc (pumpkin seeds, cashews, seafood) , copper (legumes, soy, nuts), and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables in your diet. Plant-based sources include legumes, beans, soy, lentils, and spirulina, which provide the most support. Avoiding sugar and processed foods as much as possible prevents collagen glycation and skin aging.

For healthy skin, it's important to create a diverse plate with both collagen-rich animal foods and a balanced variety of plant-based foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C, zinc, and copper are essential for collagen synthesis. For collagen support, you can incorporate bone broth into your daily diet several times a week or a diet rich in eggs, fish, and vegetables.