Skincare through the ages

Using the right products isn't just something older people should think about. If you think looking after your skin is something that is only important for older people who have lines and wrinkles, you're wrong.

The truth is that the younger you start using products to take care of your skin, the more you will benefit when you hit middle age and beyond. We asked Caroline Frazer, Simple Skincare Expert and Celebrity Make-Up Artist, to explain more.

Your 20s: The first step is something that applies to all ages: using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which will be clear on the label.

"It can protect you against ageing caused by the sun's UV rays," said Caroline. "That is anything from wrinkles to sun spots."

If you are battling breakouts, you're not alone - spots don't only plague teenagers. Given that every spot starts out as a clogged pore, Caroline says diligent cleansing is essential. "Hormonal changes and stress can also play a part and if you want to understand more, try a specially formulated oil balancing range such as the Simple Clear Skin Oil Balancing Exfoliating Wash, as it blends witch hazel and zinc PCA to control shine and help reduce blemishes without drying out the skin or stripping it of its natural oils," she said.

Late nights can lead to dark shadows but it's more the fact that the skin around your eyes is the thinnest on the body, and in turn where wrinkles can appear first, that means you shouldn't forgo eye cream. "By your mid-20s, find an eye cream that will restore moisture to that area and ward off crow's-feet," she said. "Prevention is better than cure."

Your 30s: First up, don't skim over the bit above if you're already in your 30s. You still need to remember SPF and a thorough skincare routine. Now here's the bad news; collagen - the skin's wrinkle-busting protein - can weaken during your 30s.

"It means you start to lose some of your skin tone and elasticity, making fine lines more obvious, so it's important to upgrade to more hydrating skincare products that also protect against damage," Caroline said.

She suggests sticking to a gentle cleanser to counteract any irritating effects from the anti-ageing products you may be using and then trying a richer moisturiser and upping your exfoliation.

"This is vital during your 30s, as it rids the complexion of skin-dulling dead cells," she said.

Eyes-wise, keep up your eye cream but consider treating shadows as well as wrinkles with a touch of radiance, which can give the effect of a youthful glow. A product that contains light-reflecting particles helps light bounce off the skin and promotes natural radiance under the eye and on top of the cheekbones. Caroline recommends trying it with a highlighter too.