Getting Started with Anti-Aging: What Should You Start With? A Priority Guide
There are lots of anti-aging products, but starting in order of strongest evidence is a way to save both money and your skin.
Starting order
- Priority 1: Sunscreen every day
- Priority 2: Manage your skin barrier with moisturizer
- Priority 3: Retinoid (slowly)
- Priority 4: Supplements such as vitamin C and peptides
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If you're just getting started, a sensible order is daily sun protection → one retinoid, introduced slowly → moisturizer, rather than layering on several new ingredients. UV exposure is strongly linked to visible photoaging, so applying plenty of a broad-spectrum product with SPF 30 or higher and reapplying when spending a long time outdoors are the basics. If you're worried about irritation, simply using sunscreen consistently to start with will make your routine much more solid.
Next, try starting with a low-concentration retinol product once or twice a week, at night on completely dry skin, using a small amount and pairing it with moisturizer. Even if it feels fine, it's better to increase the frequency gradually. If stinging, redness, or flaking persists, stop using it or reduce the frequency. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's safest to consult a healthcare professional before using retinoids.
Vitamin C is optional. You can add it if you're interested in addressing a dull appearance or the appearance of blemish marks, but there's no need to introduce it at the same time as retinol right from the start. Eye cream is also more of a nice-to-have than a must-have; in many cases, a moisturizer that feels comfortable around the eyes is enough. Start new products one at a time so it's easier to tell what works for you.