Research from Harvard Health Publishing shows that aging skin isn’t just about laugh lines or crow’s feet—it’s a full-on shift in how your skin functions and feels. Over time, our bodies naturally produce less collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm and bouncy. As this support structure breaks down, oil gland activity also diminishes, so we start to notice sagging, fine lines, drier skin, and a loss of that youthful plumpness. At the same time, cell turnover slows down, meaning it takes longer for fresh, radiant skin to surface. Combine that with reduced oil production and a thinning moisture barrier, and skin can start to feel drier, more sensitive, and less resilient.
Of course, it’s not just time doing the work—sun exposure, pollution, and other environmental stressors also accelerate these changes by creating oxidative stress that damages skin cells and speeds up aging. The good news? Understanding these shifts helps you better support your skin every step of the way.
In your 40s, you might start seeing those first signs—fine lines, uneven tone, or dullness—and this is the perfect decade to focus on prevention and hydration. By your 50s, hormonal changes (like menopause) can lead to a more noticeable drop in elasticity and moisture. And in your 60s and beyond, concerns like deeper wrinkles and pronounced texture take center stage—making targeted, nourishing skincare more important than ever. And that’s where we step in!