Natural Anti-Aging Skincare Ingredients and Routines for a Youthful Glow

Natural anti-aging products are booming in popularity as people seek a safer, less toxic alternative to harmful chemical ingredients. However, it’s important to know which ingredients really hold up against scientific scrutiny.

Green tea, for example, contains antioxidants that energize skin and fight dark circles, according to a recent study in Nutrients. The same goes for sipping water to stay hydrated, which can make your skin look plumper and more youthful.

1. Retinol

Retinol is the holy grail of anti-aging ingredients. A derivative of vitamin A, it stimulates skin cell turnover, resulting in brighter, younger-looking skin. It can also help fade discoloration and uneven skin tone and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

However, you need to be cautious about which products you choose. Retinoids can cause redness, peeling and dryness in some skin types, so it’s important to pick the right product for you.

For example, Beautycounter’s Countertime line has the plant-derived retinol bakuchiol and peptides to target fine lines and even skin tone while also being gentle on sensitive skin. Another option is NazarianSkin’s retinol serum that features blue tansy to diminish redness and avocado seed oil to plump skin. This serum is gentle enough to use every night while still delivering visible results.

2. Hyaluronic Acid

The skin on your face communicates hundreds of tiny non-verbal cues, which is why it’s usually one of the first places to show signs of aging. Fortunately, there are a few natural ingredients and routines that can help preserve your youthful glow.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring ingredient that attracts water molecules, keeping your skin hydrated and plump. It is said to be able to hold 1,000 times its weight in water, which helps combat fine lines and wrinkles.

There are several ways to incorporate hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine, including serums, moisturizers and face oils. Hyaluronic acid mixes well with almost all other ingredients and works particularly well with retinol, vitamin C, and glycolic acid.

3. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the strongest and most protective antioxidants that can be found in nature. A serum with this ingredient can help reduce uneven skin tone and discoloration, fade age spots, and even prevent UV damage.

Willowbark extract has anti-inflammatory and emollient properties that hydrate and soothe skin, while reducing blemishes and promoting cell renewal. It also helps to regulate oil production and minimize breakouts.

This naturally-derived skincare ingredient is a popular pick for fighting the signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Studies have shown that it can brighten dark spots and even out skin tone, especially when used with other antioxidants.

4. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera, also called aloe barbadensis, is a popularly cultivated succulent green plant that grows wild in dry climates such as Africa and around the Mediterranean. The leaves contain a slimy tissue that stores water and special plant compounds, which make the gel you’re used to seeing in products.

Like vitamin C, it’s an antioxidant that helps prevent free radical damage to the skin. It’s also a gentle exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells that might otherwise block other skincare ingredients from reaching the surface.

It has been found to promote wound healing, reducing scarring and preventing deeper wrinkles from forming. It’s especially effective at reducing dark spots, redness and blotches, according to a study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

5. Aromatherapy

While everyone’s skin is different, dermatologists recommend incorporating effective antiaging skincare ingredients such as retinol, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and peptides into your routine. Niacinamide is also a great ingredient to look for as it reduces the appearance of pores, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration.

Avoid skincare products with ingredients like witch hazel as it contains drying alcohol and skin-constricting tannins. Instead opt for a face oil that features a concentration of immunity-building antioxidants. Henry’s favorite option is the Renew Pure Radiance Oil that can minimize fine lines and wrinkles while boosting your complexion for a glow to envy.

A combination of science-backed skincare ingredients and a consistent routine are the key to gorgeous looking skin over the long term. Shop EarthToSkin for the best natural antiaging skincare ingredients that are backed by research and proven to work.