Best anti-ageing skin care routine that 'genuinely changes your skin'

Alison Bladh, beauty and nutritional therapist at Alison Bladh Nutrition, suggested stripping your routine back to basics. She said: "If you want skin to look younger, the most important thing is to focus on the basics that genuinely change how skin behaves over time, rather than chasing every new trend.

"In my experience, people often spend too much on products and too little attention on the daily habits that make the biggest visible difference."

The first line of defence is to use a good SPF - one that is factor 30 or above - as this will really slow down the impact of ageing. Bladh continued: "The first and most important anti-ageing tip is daily sun protection. Most of what people call 'skin ageing' is actually photoageing, which is caused by ultraviolet exposure.

"It shows up as uneven pigmentation, roughness, loss of elasticity and fine lines. Wearing a broad-spectrum SPF every day - not just on sunny holidays - is one of the most effective ways to preserve smoother, firmer-looking skin and prevent further damage.

"Applying SPF as the final step of a morning routine, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows, is a simple habit that can make a significant long-term difference."

For the main part of the routine, get the basics right, with a cleanser, moisturiser and minimal active products, the expert recommended. She said: "As skin matures, it becomes drier, more reactive and less resilient, particularly around and after menopause.

"A simple, evidence-based routine tends to be far more effective than an aggressive or overly complicated one. A gentle cleanser, a well-formulated moisturiser and one or two targeted active ingredients will support the skin far better than layering multiple harsh products.

"Choosing moisturisers that contain ingredients such as ceramides or hyaluronic acid can help improve hydration, smooth the appearance of fine lines and give the skin a fresher, more rested look.

"An eye cream can also be helpful, as the skin around the eyes is thinner and often shows dryness and fatigue earlier than other areas of the face. A neck cream is also worth considering, as the neck and décolletage are often overlooked despite being areas where dryness, crepiness and loss of firmness can become more noticeable with age."

Hydrating creams form the basis of many routines, but choosing a few products with active ingredients will enhance results. Think retinoids and vitamin C.

The expert said: "One of the most effective ingredients for improving skin texture and softening the appearance of lines is a retinoid or retinol. These vitamin A derivatives have strong clinical evidence behind them, supporting collagen production and encouraging skin renewal.

"They should be introduced gradually, particularly in more mature or sensitive skin, as irritation can occur if used too frequently too soon."

Indeed, one more expert described retinoid products as a must for women aged 40 and older, naming it the "best for your skin". It is not suitable for everyone, however, particularly on skin that is too young or sensitive, so it is worth introducing carefully.

Vitamin C can be a great ingredient to look out for in your skin care products, as it can help brighten tired-looking skin. Bladh said: "Dull, uneven skin tone is another factor that can make the face appear older. Ingredients such as vitamin C can help brighten the complexion and improve overall radiance, which often gives a more youthful appearance.

"Used consistently in the morning, alongside sun protection, it can help support a clearer and more even-looking skin tone."