I'm sure a lot of you reading this post right now are wondering why I am choosing to single out "mature skin" for the first edition of The Myths and The Truths series of blog posts. The fact is that as you age your skin changes drastically. Many people went thru their teens and early 20's feeling that their skin was dry, oily, or "normal" (I use that in quotes because what is normal skin anyway??). Then suddenly the makeup you have been using for years isn't working the way it used to. Ladies, it's time to change up your makeup routine the same way you have to change up your skincare routine!
Here at The Saratoga Day Spa, Dorie teaches classes specifically geared towards mature skin to help you find the products and techniques best suited for your changing skin. Maybe it's not that you are "too old" for this foundation now but its simply time to switch up your primer or even add a primer to your routine! I am sure many of you have heard that shimmer and glitter are a big no no for maturing skin. Well I am here to tell you that is a HUGE LIE. You simply need to find the right shimmer and methods of applying it that compliment your skin in the best way possible.
I have also been asked many times how to know when you have reached the dreaded "mature skin" category. I think first and foremost, this time period needs to be embraced. There is nothing wrong with aging, we are all aging and there is nothing shameful about it. Secondly, there is no specific age where you fall into this category. All skin is different and ages at a different pace based on a multiple factors. If you feel that your skin has drastically changed in the last 1 to 2 years, then I would say you MAY fall into it. If you notice fine lines starting to pop up around your eyes, smile lines, or even the border of your lips, this category may be for you. If your skin type (dry, oily, "normal") has changed, you may fall into this category. If you spent a little too much time in the sun and you notice your first sun spot (see an esthetician to determine if it needs to be examined by a doctor), you may fall into this group.
Genetics play a role on how quickly you age (thanks Mom and Dad). As you age or reach middle age, your skin may also undergoe hormonal and biological changes. This often causes it to lose tone and plumpness, wrinkles deepen and it looks thinner and drier. Why? Cell renewal slows down, collagen production diminishes and elastin, a skin-strengthening protein, reduces, all of which contribute to causing the epidermis to sag. As you age your melanocytes (pigment cells) also multiply more quickly and you may be experiencing age spots as well. When your skin is undergoing such changes it becomes very evident the makeup that went on smoothly at 20 may need to be changed up to suit the needs of your every changing skin. I can help you adjust your makeup and teach you how to address the issues you may be having with your changing skin.
If after reading this, you think you may fall into it this category, stay tuned for the next mature skin class being held at the spa or see Dorie for a one-on-one lesson.