Dr. Ryan's Mailbag: What Is The Best SPF For Mature Skin? Plus More...

Feb 01, 2024
Dr. Ryan's Mailbag: What Is The Best SPF For Mature Skin? Plus More...

 

Greetings and Happy Friday to all you skincare enthusiasts! Dr. Ryan Shelton here, and I’m bursting with excitement to tackle your burning skincare questions. In today's Mailbag, I'll be unraveling the mysteries behind two inquiries from customers seeking the key to radiant and age-defying skin. Our first question comes from Michelle in the sunny city of Miami, FL.

Q: Hi Dr. Ryan. What sunscreen is best for mature skin, and how often should I apply it?

SPF choices

A: Hi, Michelle! This is an excellent query that I don’t believe I’ve had before… Sun protection is a non-negotiable in the pursuit of timeless and radiant skin. Let's dive into the SPF options available to you and which one is going to pay off when it comes to a healthier complexion!

When selecting sunscreen for mature skin, you’ll want to aim for a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30.

This provides a rock-solid shield against both UVA and UVB rays, safeguarding your skin from premature aging and potential damage.

Consider opting for a sunscreen with added antioxidants, as these can further boost your skin's defense against environmental stressors.

After all, if you can find an SPF with added benefits, there’s no reason you wouldn’t want to have it in your routine!

Now, the application frequency is crucial…

I recommend applying sunscreen every morning as the final step in your skincare routine, even on cloudy days.

And if you’re spending extended periods outdoors, reapplication every two hours is essential. And remember those often neglected areas like your neck, ears, and hands!

Whatever you do, just make sure you apply your SPF every day, no matter what.

This could help prevent you from needing a Dark Spot Corrector down the line, and you’ll thank yourself in your later years that you were so consistent with sun protection!

And now, onto our second question from Britta in Austin, TX.

Q: Hi Dr. Ryan. I’m approaching 47 and I want to be more dedicated to my skincare. What are the most effective ingredients for reducing fine lines and wrinkles at my age?

woman looking at skin in the mirror

A: Hello, Britta! The struggle that comes with trying to smooth your skin and create a more youthful look is something almost all of us can relate to! Let's unravel the secrets to effectively combatting fine lines and wrinkles in your fabulous 40s.

In your 40s, and even beyond, the focus shifts to ingredients that promote collagen production and offer intense hydration.

You see, the older we get, the slower our skin produces collagen, which causes our whole complexion to be more vulnerable to wrinkles and sagging.

Hyaluronic acid, a skin-plumping marvel, is a must-have in your routine if you want to help smooth out those wrinkles.

You can incorporate it into your routine through serums or moisturizers for a surge of moisture that diminishes the appearance of fine lines.

Peptides, those tiny but mighty protein fragments, are another key player…

They stimulate collagen synthesis, promoting skin firmness and elasticity. Look for products like my Repair and Release Cream, where peptides take center stage in the battle against time.

Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is another ingredient you should zero in on.

It’s a potent weapon in your skincare arsenal and has completely transformed the complexions of so many women your age.

Known for its skin-renewing properties, it helps diminish fine lines and improves overall texture. However, introduce it gradually into your routine to avoid potential sensitivity - that, or use a retinol product that’s beginner-friendly.

If you want to learn more about what that might look like, check out my Retinol Defense Cream and Retinol PM Booster - they contain a healthy dose of retinol as well as soothing ingredients to help minimize sensitivity.

So, whether you’re a retinol newbie or you’ve tried it before, either of these products can help you see the change you’re looking for in your skin!

And there you have it, Britta! A tailored approach to nurturing your skin in your 40s.

Remember, consistency is your greatest ally on this journey to ageless radiance, so stick to your routine as closely as you can and you’re sure to see results.