As you round the corner from your 20s to your 30s, you will probably notice a number of changes in your physical appearance. In many cases, the body’s metabolism starts slowing down in your 30s, hormone levels even out or begin to decrease, and the lifestyle choices you made in your 20s start visibly taking their toll on your skin. This is the point in the fight against aging where most people transition from mere prevention to actually treating existing wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Aside from eating well and drinking plenty of water, it becomes essential in your 30s to incorporate an effective anti-aging cream into your daily routine if you want to keep your skin looking fresh and smooth. Here are a few things to keep in mind in your 30s.

Skin’s Structure. As we age, the collagen and elastin fibers that make up our skin’s structure naturally break down while production of these elements decreases, leaving our skin less elastic and resilient. Anti-aging creams that moisturize the skin and contain antioxidants to prevent further damage will significantly help defend the skin against signs of aging caused by this process. If you are in your 30s and shopping for a good anti-aging product, you should also look for ingredients that stimulate collagen production. Be aware, however, that collagen cannot be absorbed by the skin. So always look for products that encourage collagen production but do not actually contain collagen.

Dull Appearance. Aging also causes our skin to look duller, which in turn can make us look older than we actually are. The main cause of this is a slowing of our body’s natural skin cell renewal and regeneration processes. Dead skin cells often remain on the skin’s surface, giving the skin a dull, dry appearance. To lighten up your skin in your 30s, find an anti-aging product that will gently exfoliate the skin. The key here is gently. Excessive or overaggressive exfoliation can aggravate and weaken the skin, leading to more issues. Follow exfoliation up with an anti-aging moisturizer that will hydrate, protect, and nourish the skin.

Diminishing Existing Signs of Aging. If you are already seeing those fine lines and wrinkles appearing on your skin, it’s time to find an anti-aging product that can smooth those out. It is also beneficial to identify habitual facial expressions that are causing the lines to form and deepen. In some cases, Botox injections in these areas may be necessary to prevent further deepening of the wrinkles. Anti-aging creams can offer similar effects to Botox as well as ingredients that can help firm up your skin. Your 30s may also bring on sun spots and uneven skin pigmentation. Shop around and do your homework to find the anti-aging product that addresses your individual concerns. There are plenty of effective products out there for preventing signs of aging in your 30s.

If you are in your 30s and noticing fine line, wrinkles, and other signs of aging, now is the time to take control of your skin and stay young. For information on anti-aging products that will keep your skin looking young and healthy, click here.