Of all the factors that influence the biochemical, structural, and physical properties of the skin, aging is the most universal — and often the most impactful. As skin evolves with age, it requires a more strategic kind of care. Clinicians are increasingly recommending a “less is more” approach to address the changing needs of older patients.
The simplified routine for mature skin is supported by dermatologic evidence and rooted in the understanding that long-term skin health improves when a regimen is both effective and easy to maintain. The key is to find products and treatments that work with aging skin, support impaired biological functions, and foster a high rate of adherence.
The process of aging alters the biochemical, structural, and physical properties of the skin, resulting in impaired barrier function and increased susceptibility to conditions and diseases. Aging may be intrinsic (driven by genetics) or extrinsic (caused by environmental conditions such as UV radiation or smoking), but its effects are easily visible. Skin becomes thinner and begins to sag as time passes; its natural collagen and elastin production slows, causing it to be more reactive and less resilient. As a result, it takes longer to heal and becomes less efficient as a moisture barrier.
However, this is not the time for aggressive intervention. In many cases, the most effective strategy is to scale back, simplify, and provide targeted, consistent support.
The best way to address age-related changes is through gentle reinforcement using quality products and sustainable routines. Topical treatments should be streamlined, and injectables should be used with awareness and restraint, taking into account the structural and anatomical changes that come with age.
Patients may be alarmed by the changes that come with aging skin, but that does not justify aggressive or invasive treatments. Not only are overcomplicated skincare routines difficult to maintain, overloading the skin with multiple products and treatments can disrupt the barrier and lead to further issues. Furthermore, frequent switching between treatments limits the ability to evaluate results.
Nerissa Prieto, MD, founder and medical director of Privvy Modern Health, and the director of clinical trials at FACTORFIVE Skincare, recently spoke about viral skin care trends and the clinical consequences of “overdosing” the skin.
“The most damaging trend I'm seeing is the ‘more actives, better results’ mentality,” she said. “Patients layer multiple high-strength ingredients — tretinoin, vitamin C, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide — all introduced simultaneously without regard for barrier integrity. Social media promotes aggressive multi-step routines with daily retinoids and chemical exfoliants as if they're universally beneficial, when in reality they're causing widespread barrier dysfunction, especially in rosacea and sensitive skin patients.”
Implementing a successful “less is more” approach for aging skin starts with some basic principles. Practitioners play a crucial role in educating their patients about improving skin barrier recovery and resilience, mitigating erythema and irritation, and reducing the signs of aging skin. An easy-to-follow routine is at the core of treatment, featuring gentle cleansing, regular use of moisturizer and sunscreen, and treatments that prioritize skin health over intensity.
When adding or adjusting products, changes should be gradual, allowing each change enough time to demonstrate its effect. Providers should reinforce the habit-building aspects of care rather than quick-fix expectations.
Caring for mature skin is an essential part of the healthy aging process, and aesthetic health care providers play a key role. By establishing consistent routines and identifying what the skin actually needs (and what it doesn’t), providers can support healthier outcomes, help prevent potentially damaging skin conditions and promote a sense of wellbeing and confidence in their patients. The approach is simple: quality products, regular check-ins, and a thoughtful plan that adjusts gradually and safely.
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