As we age, our skin changes—losing elasticity, becoming drier, and showing visible signs like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. The good news? With the right skincare routine, you can slow these effects and restore a smoother, firmer, more radiant complexion.
As a dermatologist, I recommend this simple but effective 7-step skincare routine for aging skin—designed to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate skin at any age.
🔄 Morning vs. Evening Routine
The same steps apply morning and night, but the products will slightly differ. Morning is all about protection. Evening focuses on repair and regeneration.
Let’s walk through the 7 essential steps and the best ingredients and products to use at each one.
🧼 Step 1: Cleanser – Start With a Gentle Reset
Aging skin tends to be drier and more sensitive. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin’s natural oils, accelerating fine lines.
Look for:
- Sulfate-free
- Cream or gel-based
- Hydrating cleansers
Top Picks:
- CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
💦 Step 2: Toner – Rebalance and Prep the Skin
Toners help balance pH and prep the skin for better absorption of serums and treatments.
Look for:
- Alcohol-free formulas
- Soothing ingredients like rose water, glycerin, or chamomile
Top Picks:
- Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Toner
- Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner
Also read: Does Oily Skin Age Differently? A Dermatologist Explains the Truth About Aging and Skin Types
💧 Step 3: Serum – Deliver Potent Anti-Aging Ingredients
This is the powerhouse step. Serums target wrinkles, pigmentation, and dullness.
Morning Serum:
- Vitamin C for brightening and antioxidant protection
- Niacinamide to strengthen skin and reduce uneven tone
Night Serum:
- Retinol or Bakuchiol for cell turnover and wrinkle reduction
- Peptides for firming
Top Picks:
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (AM)
- The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane (PM)
- Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum
💦 Step 4: Eye Cream – Target the Delicate Eye Area
The skin around the eyes is thinner and shows aging first. Use an eye cream that hydrates and smooths fine lines.
Look for:
- Caffeine (for puffiness)
- Hyaluronic acid
- Retinol (use PM only, and sparingly)
Top Picks:
- Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream
- Biossance Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel
🧴 Step 5: Moisturizer – Restore and Lock in Hydration
Aging skin loses its ability to retain moisture. A rich moisturizer helps repair the skin barrier and restore plumpness.
Look for:
- Ceramides
- Hyaluronic acid
- Squalane or peptides
Top Picks:
- CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
- Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
🛡 Step 6: Sunscreen (AM only) – Your Best Anti-Aging Weapon
UV exposure is the leading cause of premature aging. Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable—even on cloudy days or indoors.
Look for:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher
- Mineral or chemical filters (based on skin sensitivity)
Top Picks:
- EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk SPF 100
Also read: Adult Acne 101: Causes, Treatments, and Proven Solutions That Actually Work
💤 Step 7: Night Cream or Overnight Mask (PM only)
Finish your nighttime routine with a richer cream or treatment mask that boosts skin renewal while you sleep.
Look for:
- Peptides
- Retinol
- Antioxidants and calming ingredients
Top Picks:
- Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer
- Laneige Water Sleeping Mask
👩⚕️ Final Tips for Aging Skin
- Hydrate inside and out: Drink water and use a humidifier if needed
- Be gentle: Avoid over-exfoliating or harsh scrubs
- Consistency is key: Anti-aging results take time—stick with your routine
- Add lifestyle support: Good sleep, nutrition, and stress management go hand-in-hand with glowing skin
Final Thoughts
Aging gracefully doesn’t mean doing less—it means doing what’s right for your skin. This 7-step skincare routine is backed by science and used by dermatologists worldwide to help skin age beautifully and stay healthy long-term.
Tailor the products to your budget and preferences—but keep the structure consistent. Your future skin will thank you.