'I'm 43 - three skin care products have given me better elasticity, pores and texture than I had in my 20s'
Marlena swears by tretinoin as an anti-ageing agent
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Ageing comes hand in hand with all sorts of changes to the texture, firmness, and luminosity of the skin.
Although we don't know how to stop the clock, a strong skincare routine will ensure you look your best at all stages of life.
Marlena Stell is enjoying the best skin of her life at 43, and she credits three products for her results.
"I have three very specific products that I'm going to talk about today that have transformed my skin," she said. "I swear by these three products.
Marlena claims three products have given her the best skin of her life
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"I've been very strict with my skincare routine since I was in my 20s, I'm 43 now and my skin texture, the elasticity of the pores, is so much better now than in my 20s and I swear by these three products.
"I swear to you that your skincare is the [most important] thing. You can do all of the injectables and the fanciest treatments possible, but if you don't take care of your skin when you get to my age, it's just not going to be where you want it to be. "
Glycolic acid toner
"The first thing you need in your skincare routine is a glycolic acid," explained Marlena. "Every morning or night, I put this after I've washed my face, on a little pad, I rub it all over my skin and let it dry, and then I put my serum and then my moisturiser. It's my second step in my routine, I don't go a day without using it."
When applied topically, glycolic acids break down the bonds between the outer layer of the skin and the next cell layer.
In other words, it has a peeling effect on dead skins that ultimately creates a smoother texture.
Vitamin C
The second item on Marlena's list is vitamin C.
"I use this once a day and that is going to help with brightening and toning the skin. It helps with ageing and fine lines, vitamin C is so good for you," she said.
As an antioxidant, the vitamin works by neutralising free radicals that cause oxidative stress to the skin and lead to premature skin ageing.
It is also a key component in the production of collagen and supports skin structure while delaying signs of ageing.
Tretinoin
Thirdly, Marlela touts tretinoin as the product that has been most transformative for her skin.
"The third one is the heavy hitter," said Marlena. "If you are in your 20s, especially late 20s, this is the one thing that has transformed my skin."
Prescription tretinoin works by boosting cell renewal and turnover, replacing older skin cells with newer ones.
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Tretinoin activates various skin proteins and enzymes
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It does this by activating various skin proteins and enzymes that play vital roles in skin repair and rejuvenation.
"It's important to apply topical retinoids sparingly and avoid excessive exposure to sunlight and UV," warns the NHS.
"Topical retinoids are not suitable for use during pregnancy, as there's a risk they might cause birth defects.
"The most common side effects of topical retinoids are mild irritation and stinging of the skin."