Maintaining youthful skin is a goal for so many women and with the right at-home practices, it is entirely achievable.
GB News spoke exclusively to an expert about how mature women can achieve "the best skin of their life".
Skin care expert and co-founder of the Harley Street Skin Clinic, Lesley Reynolds, shared the "common mistakes" older women make that can set their skin back.
"The key here is to avoid over-exfoliating your skin, which can exacerbate side effects of ageing such as dryness," the expert warned.
For beautiful skin at any age, avoid falling into the trap of over-exfoliating
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The skin care expert at Dermalogica confirmed over-exfoliation can be harmful, stating: "Many fall into the trap of over-exfoliation - an over-zealous approach that can actually reduce skin's vitality and make it more susceptible to damage from UV light.
"Over-exfoliation triggers the inflammatory response, leading to a compromised lipid barrier that won’t function properly, a sensitised skin condition, and accelerated premature ageing.
"Tell-tale signs of over-exfoliated skin include noticeable dehydration, patchy areas of dryness, skin tautness, redness and itchiness, increased sensitivity, and inflammatory acne and irritation."
If you are guilty of exfoliating excessively, it's best to speak to a professional skin therapist, who will likely prescribe a calming cleanser and toner, plus a protective moisturiser. SPF is also essential. Once your skin has recovered, a professional can advise you on how to exfoliate gently and effectively.
How often you exfoliate will likely depend on your skin type but no matter what, it is important to follow the instructions for the specific product you use.
As well as over-exfoliating, neglecting to apply sun protection is another ageing skin care mistake. This is because SPF "slows down the acceleration of sun spots and hyperpigmentation".
Lesley added: "I'd also say harsh cleansers are another factor which can dehydrate your skin.
"To avoid these mistakes, be kinder to your skin. Prioritise gentle, hydrating products - and ensure you wear SPF daily, regardless of the weather."
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Diligent SPF application 'slows down the acceleration of sun spots and hyperpigmentation'
GETTY IMAGESLesley also stressed the importance of sticking to a skin care routine at night, "as this is when your skin repairs itself most effectively".
The expert previously spoke to GB News about the "ideal" morning and evening regime for "the best skin of your life" over 50.
In other skin care news, a dermatologist said that her quick evening routine will promote a wrinkle-free complexion "overnight".
She explained: "Night-time is a period of vital skin renewal, a unique window of opportunity to repair damaged tissue and regulate water loss through the skin."
