One of my fondest memories is sharing a cup of coffee with my mom in Washington, DC, while our first daughter was discovering the art of walking. We would often gather at the Starbucks conveniently located between our homes. My mother had this charming habit of scooping little spoonfuls of foam from her cappuccino, offering them to her granddaughter like a sweet treat. In one of those moments, as she leaned over to feed her baby bird, I caught sight of a bruise on her neck. “Mom,” I asked with genuine concern, “what happened to your neck?” She hastily adjusted her scarf and replied, “Oh, we were using some straps in yoga class, and I got rope burn.” I set my coffee down, met her gaze, and said, “Mom? Exactly how naïve do you think I am?”

After some gentle probing, my mother finally confessed to undergoing a peel on her neck. At the time, she was around 60, while I was just 30. I took a deep breath, expressing how beautiful she was and that she didn’t need to change anything about herself. A wistful smile crossed her face as she simply replied, “Just wait.”

Now, fast forward to my 50s, and I’m acutely aware of the changes in my skin. Fine lines have started to form around my eyes, and I can see how my neck wrinkles when I tilt my head just so. My elbows are starting to resemble those of a Shar-Pei, and the skin above my knees has that loose, saggy appearance when I’m in downward dog—certainly a reason to invest in some stylish capris!

While I’m not quite ready to consider a neck peel, I’m beginning to grasp the complexity of being kind to myself as I age. I wish to age naturally, embracing my well-earned laugh lines and appreciating the body that has carried me through life’s journey! A few years ago, I made the decision to stop coloring my hair, as I wanted to break free from societal standards that simply don’t resonate with me.

Yet, I’m still human. It’s part of our nature (perhaps just human nature?) to care about our appearance, even when we wish we didn’t. I have my own insecurities—just as my mother did, and just as everyone does. There are times when the realities of aging mercilessly poke at my vanity, making me feel older or more fatigued than I actually am. Although I’m not planning to embark on a cosmetic intervention journey, I can see how easy it is to become curious about the options available. It saddens me that my mom felt both ashamed of her neck and embarrassed about having undergone a procedure. What’s the positive outcome in that scenario?

This post aims to navigate a delicate conversation surrounding aging. How can we engage in our own aging process in a way that challenges superficial cultural norms while allowing us to feel vibrant, healthy, and beautiful in our own skin? What are the most effective strategies for maintaining optimal skin health as we grow older?

To delve deeper into these topics, I consulted with two dermatologist friends, exploring everything from the changes our skin undergoes with age to the products and procedures that can enhance skin vitality as we age gracefully. As the founder and doctor behind Osmia, I frequently receive inquiries about Botox, lasers, and Retin-A. This indicates that even those who prefer a mostly natural approach are curious about options that extend beyond the realm of pure green beauty. I am sharing this information to bring these questions out of the shadows and into the open. To some—like my husband, who cherishes my wrinkles—this may seem at odds with the ethos of a natural skincare brand. However, I’m weary of the polarized perspectives that dominate this conversation. If you choose to use your beautiful Osmia products along with Retin-A or a laser facial, why not do so with informed guidance from trusted experts?

Understanding the Characteristics of Mature Skin

Dr. Brooke Walls, the founder of the Aspen Center for Cosmetic Medicine and Dermatology, clarifies, “The skin comprises three layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis (the fat layer). Mature skin is characterized by a thinner epidermis and an altered junction between the epidermis and dermis. The loss of collagen and elastin is significant in aging skin, along with fat loss in our faces. This process is influenced by a unique and intricate mix of genetic and environmental stressors over time, which can either accelerate or decelerate the aging process and affect our skin’s maturation.”

As we lose our youthful baby fat, the elastic fibers in our skin—namely, collagen and elastin—suffer from damage and depletion over time. It’s a natural progression, isn’t it? The longer our bodies work tirelessly for us, the more wear and tear they endure. Just as our joints exhibit signs of extensive use over the years, our skin inevitably reflects this journey as well. Here’s additional insight into the realm of mature skin.

Key Factors Influencing Our Aging Process

Some changes we observe as we age are intrinsic, stemming from the passage of time, ethnicity, and genetics. With time, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to fine lines. Certain ethnic groups with higher melanin concentrations and darker skin tones may start with a thicker dermis, often experiencing these changes at a slower pace compared to those with lighter skin. Genetics also play a pivotal role in aging, as they do with stretch marks.

External factors, such as prolonged sun exposure, smoking habits, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyles, and poor nutrition contribute to extrinsic aging, which can be altered. My dear friend from medical school, Dr. Ron Patrick, sums it up succinctly: “Unfortunately, the youthful indiscretions come back to haunt us as we age. Think of those beach days spent cooking in baby oil while battling a hangover and finishing the last pack of cigarettes on spring break! However, adopting a healthy lifestyle now can significantly mitigate these adverse effects. Staying well-hydrated, consuming a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, maintaining a consistent exercise routine, applying titanium or zinc-based sunblock daily, and wearing protective clothing and hats are all vital for the overall health of our skin.”

Essential Skincare Regimen for Mature Skin

I thought you’d never ask! Here are some excellent options for a skincare routine, including my personal regimen. For those who prefer minimalism, our Mature Skin Kit can be used once or twice daily—two simple products that work wonders for most skin types!

Morning Skincare Routine for Mature Skin

• Begin with a facial cleanse using the Purely Gentle Mud Cleanser, enriched with nourishing aloe and honey.
• Follow with the Restore Serum applied on very damp skin, gently pressing it into your face and neck. If your skin is exceptionally dry or if you have dermatitis, consider using the Purely Simple Face Cream instead of the serum, along with a few drops of Nectar Nourishing Drops, which is rich in Vitamin A and other antioxidants that have significantly strengthened my skin with regular use.
• Always finish with a zinc sunscreen. Personally, I use Mychelle SPF 28, which my sensitive skin tolerates well. As Dr. Walls says, “the best sunscreen is the one you will actually apply,” so you may need to experiment to find one that suits your skin. For our Sunscreen Shakedown, click here.

Evening Skincare Routine for Mature Skin

• Cleanse your body using one of our gentle, moisturizing bar soaps.
• For your face, use the Rose Clay Facial Soap, relishing the incredible aroma of rose geranium and the creamy lather it provides. Because I suffer from perioral dermatitis, I rely on my cherished, beloved, and revered little bar of Black Clay Facial Soap—this bar has been an integral part of my routine for over a decade, providing transformative anti-inflammatory and gently exfoliating effects.
• Moisturize with Restore Serum on damp skin, just as you did in the morning, or apply a combination of Purely Simple Face Cream and Nectar Nourishing Drops (ideal for exceptionally dry skin or dermatitis).
• Lastly, apply one of our nourishing antioxidant body oils to a wet body, mixing it with the water on your skin for outstanding results.

This routine aligns closely with Dr. Walls’ recommendations for mature skin. She emphasizes, “Utilizing products in your daily routine that are clean and contain fewer chemicals and fragrances helps support skin function. I advocate for a less-is-more approach.”

The Benefits of Using Retin-A for Skin Health

“Tretinoin, the active component of Retin-A, is considered the holy grail among dermatologists,” states Dr. Patrick. “Every dermatologist I know applies tretinoin nightly. It may cause some irritation initially, so I recommend my patients start with a thin layer every third night for a month, then advance to every other night for another month, and finally nightly. After a few months, tretinoin effectively reduces fine lines and hyperpigmentation while improving the overall texture of the skin, resulting in a youthful glow.” Dr. Walls adds, “It can also aid in repairing DNA damage and strengthen the skin by promoting the production of beneficial collagen that diminishes as we grow older.”

I experimented with Retin-A in my 30s, but my sensitive skin rejected it entirely. Following a recent visit to Dr. Walls where she removed a precancerous spot on my nose, I’ve decided to give it another shot. By repairing DNA damage, tretinoin may help prevent precancerous changes (like actinic keratoses) that can lead to skin cancer, in addition to its other skin health benefits. I’ve been cautious, gradually increasing my application to a low concentration every two to three nights, mixed with my face cream. Although I’ve experienced some dryness and redness, a wash with our Mud Cleanser, followed by a generous layer of Purely Simple and Nectar the next morning, seems to make it manageable. I plan to persist for a few more months, though I suspect my perioral-dermatitis-prone skin may ultimately reject it again—still, I’m curious about this experiment!

I previously avoided Retin-A due to the presence of non-active ingredients I disapproved of, including parabens and mineral oil. However, prescription options are expanding, and some have fewer questionable components. While there are concerns about tretinoin toxicity, current studies are inconclusive for low-dose topical use, and I have yet to meet a dermatologist who expresses worry about Retin-A toxicity, except during pregnancy. You should not use Retin-A if you are considering pregnancy, as it falls under Category C, indicating proof of animal toxicity without sufficient human data to confirm or deny it.

If Retin-A doesn’t suit your skin or feels inappropriate for you, there are numerous gentle retinol and Vitamin A-rich products available on the market that can yield similar results over time. For a comprehensive overview of retinoids, read this.

Recommended Procedures for Enhancing Mature Skin

“My preferred procedures for mature skin include IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) photofacials and radiofrequency microneedling,” shares Dr. Walls. “The IPL photofacial excels at evening out skin tone, with minimal downtime involved. Some individuals may require up to three treatments to achieve optimal results, and I recommend yearly maintenance for most patients. The radiofrequency microneedling device is designed to stimulate collagen production, with results emerging from one to three treatments over a span of four months. While the radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is a more intense procedure requiring a good amount of numbing, recovery can take between one to seven days, with few restrictions on activities after the first day. Both options yield subtle yet impressive results for those seeking a natural appearance.”

Dr. Brooks performed IPL on a hyperpigmented spot on my upper cheek that had begun to resemble an annoying, permanent bruise in my Instagram photos. After just two quick treatments with the laser, my spot has become approximately 90% less noticeable, and she also treated that precancerous spot on my nose—what a bonus!

Individuals with darker skin tones should steer clear of IPL due to the heightened risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation, whereas radiofrequency microneedling is suitable for all skin tones.

Other less invasive practices, such as gua sha, dermarolling, jade rolling, and facial massage, can promote skin health in a gentle, natural manner. I incorporate all of these techniques into my self-care rituals—I particularly adore the soothing sensation of this rose quartz roller after a long day spent outdoors.

Considering Botox for Skincare: What You Need to Know

Green beauty brands often criticize Botox, but I believe it’s important to adopt a realistic view of a procedure that is relatively safe and widely utilized. Botox, derived from a bacterial toxin, has been employed for years to treat various conditions, including certain types of migraines, eye disorders, and urinary incontinence. It gained approval for cosmetic use in the early 2000s to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by paralyzing the facial muscles responsible for creasing over time.

I’ve pondered the mechanics of Botox, aware that a paralyzed muscle will atrophy over time. If one applies Botox to their entire face long-term, their facial muscles may shrink, potentially leading to a feeling of looser skin than before, which could create a sense of regret. Consequently, I choose to embrace smiles and laughter to maintain the strength of my facial muscles.

While it may lie outside my comfort zone for various reasons at this stage, I find it unfortunate when individuals feel shamed for opting for Botox. While some may view age-related changes with kindness or even joy, not everyone is quite there yet.

Strategies for Supporting Healthy Skin Aging

Both Dr. Patrick and Dr. Walls (as well as myself) advocate for an antioxidant-rich diet, proper hydration, and regular exercise to achieve optimal skin health. Dr. Patrick also noted that wearing hats and sun-protective clothing can significantly aid in preventing further damage. Additionally, Dr. Walls emphasizes the importance of quality sleep as a vital component of skin repair.

They also recommend Heliocare, an oral supplement derived from the Polypodium leucotomos fern, which works synergistically with sunblock to shield the skin from harmful UV rays. I’ve ordered some for myself, as my skin does not react well to sun exposure (Polymorphous light eruption? Phytophotodermatitis? Yes, that’s me!), and I’ll keep you updated on whether I notice any improvements with Heliocare.

Shifting the Narrative Surrounding Aging and Skin Health

This is the pivotal question, isn’t it? For many years, the primary objective of skincare regimens was simply to “look younger and perfect,” a notion that increasingly feels outdated and exclusive. So how can we alter societal norms and expectations surrounding aging and beauty in a significant way?

Dr. Walls acknowledges the challenge: “From a young age, we are bombarded with ideas of what is deemed healthy and beautiful. Younger and younger women are striving for an unrealistic standard of beauty that is neither normal nor attainable. One effective approach to fostering a more positive environment is to embrace our unique qualities and understand that true beauty radiates from within. We must impart this wisdom to the next generation, enabling them to navigate away from these unattainable beauty ideals. As Audrey Hepburn wisely stated: ‘For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.’”

Dr. Patrick shares a similar sentiment: “When discussing cosmetic products and procedures with my patients, my ultimate goal is to help them look refreshed rather than solely younger. If we focus on the idea of always appearing younger, we inadvertently frame aging as a negative experience. If patients fixate on every line and wrinkle, I encourage them to ditch the 10x magnifying mirror and recognize that no one is scrutinizing them from such a close vantage point! Witnessing a mature woman with silvery hair, glowing skin—lines and all—and a bright smile is genuinely a beautiful sight.”

I’m a work in progress, but my intention when I gaze into the mirror is to maintain a positive, kind, and grateful mindset. Regarding Osmia, you may have noticed that we intentionally avoid anti-aging terminology, reflecting our brand’s beliefs. We don’t employ gimmicks, fear tactics, or exploit insecurities for marketing purposes. Our products are designed to promote optimal skin health for all skin types, grounded in medical expertise and educational initiatives. We hope you will utilize your Osmia products to develop self-care rituals that genuinely enhance your skin, uplift your mood, and cultivate joy.

Ultimately, each one of us will need to forge our own relationship with the aging process. With conscious intention, you will discover a path that feels empowering, healthy, and uniquely yours. I encourage you to continue nourishing your body through healthy eating, staying hydrated, meditating, prioritizing sleep, utilizing your Osmia products, and getting outside to engage in physical activity, as there is no substitute for that incredible foundation when it comes to the well-being of your skin.

Special thanks to my friends Dr. Walls and Dr. Patrick for their insightful contributions!

With love, laugh lines, and a wide-brimmed hat,