We’ve redefined skin care. The words “antiaging” and “younger” have been banished to a beauty-marketing black hole. We’re no longer suckers for every so-called breakthrough brand, miracle ingredient or 14-step exotic regimen of products. Instead, we just aim to look healthy, well rested and fresh. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for mature skin for two good reasons. First, grownup complexions — like our hair (quality, texture and color) and bodies (shapes, sizes and proportions) — do differ. Second, your complexion’s not shy now about revealing the effects of genes and your history of sun damage, smoking, poor diet and lazy skin maintenance. Here are 10 things for all to know, get into and avoid

5. Want more radiant skin?

Exfoliate gently
Beware of facial scrubs with harsh particles, extra-zealous polishing tools and high-power at-home peels. These can actually be abrasive and tear or irritate the skin. Exfoliation is essential to remove or dissolve dead cells that linger on the surface of the skin, giving it a dull, dry look. Choose a creamy cleanser with vitamin C, or a low-concentration alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), or an enzyme mask with cell-dissolving pumpkin or papaya. Use once a week for a healthy look; better absorption of all topical serums, creams or oils; and easier makeup application.

6. If a little is good, more is better does not apply to skin care

Playing dermatologist with a little DIY pairing can be hazardous. If your skin looks shiny and red, feels tight or is sensitive to the touch, check your product regimen. Some very effective active ingredients can become irritants when layered with others at the same time. Never combine: retinol and vitamin C, AHAs or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs — usually it will read salicylic acid); vitamin C and AHAs or BHAs or niacinamide (aka vitamin B3); AHAs and BHAs. Space it out. You might use a vitamin C serum in the morning under a skin-plumping, hydrating hyaluronic acid moisturizer, for example, and apply a retinol cream at night. If your skin is slightly sensitive to a “beneficial” ingredient, try using it twice a week or apply a soothing moisturizer before a serum with the ingredient in question to cut the intensity. Redness is always a red flag that there’s inflammation — dangerous for skin that has issues like rosacea or a history of allergic reactions. Just stop using it cold turkey.

To be continued…