Worried About Wrinkles? You Should Be Worried About This Instead

As we age, it’s not just wrinkles we should worry about. We should be mindful of the gradual loss of hydration and elasticity that makes skin seem thinner, feel less firm, and look more uneven. As we age, collagen production slows, sebum production declines, and the outermost layers of the skin lose their ability to bounce back.

Everyday habits like taking hot showers can strip away the natural oils that help skin stay hydrated and support elasticity. When that protective layer is repeatedly stripped, it weakens the skin barrier, the outermost layer responsible for keeping moisture in and irritants out. Over time, a weakened skin barrier makes skin more reactive, dry, and vulnerable to sun damage, which is why dark spots also become more noticeable with age.

That’s why I’ve built my routine around ingredients that support both firmness and barrier health: Collagen peptides help counter the natural decline in collagen that begins in our 20s. As collagen and elastin fibers break down, skin loses firmness, and fine lines become more visible. Peptides provide amino acids that support collagen production and improve elasticity, which can help smooth and plump the look of skin over time. Think of them as building blocks that help reinforce the skin’s structure as natural collagen declines. Niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) works differently but just as importantly. It strengthens the skin barrier, helps it retain moisture, improves uneven tone, and softens the appearance of pores and fine lines. It’s an ingredient that makes skin look healthier overall, not just younger.

Perfect One Lifting Gel

Lately, I’ve been using PERFECT ONE Lifting Gel, a Japan-made product with an all-in-one formula designed for mature skin. It combines the aforementioned ingredients, collagen peptides and niacinamide, with retinol, squalane, centella, and botanical extracts in one lightweight gel. I like applying it before bed because it moisturizes without feeling heavy. By morning, my skin looks “dewey” and smoother, especially in areas where fine lines tend to show first. On nights when I’m using stronger serums, I’ll alternate, but on simpler nights, this works as both my serum and moisturizer.

If your goal is to slow the visible signs of aging,  whether that’s fine lines or loss of elasticity, focusing on hydration, barrier support, and collagen-stimulating ingredients is a great place, I’ve found, to start.

Featured Image Credit: Galina Zhigalova / Getty Images