Skin changes with age – it loses moisture, becomes finer, and more sensitive to external influences. A suitable anti-aging routine helps strengthen the skin barrier, reduce wrinkles, and maintain radiance. But which products are truly effective – and in what order? Here you'll learn which active ingredients and steps will benefit your skin in the long run.

1. Clean gently – do not rub.

Mature or sensitive skin needs a cleansing routine that removes makeup, UV filters and residues without drying out the skin.
Ideally, use mild gel or cream cleansers with soothing ingredients.
Excessive exfoliation or foaming surfactants can weaken the skin barrier and trigger adverse effects.

2. Moisture as a base: Hyaluronic acid & Niacinamide

As moisture levels decrease, skin quickly appears tired and thinner. Lightweight serums with hyaluronic acid plump the skin, while niacinamide soothes and strengthens the skin barrier. This base makes the skin more receptive to other active ingredients and instantly provides a nourished feeling. Read more in our blog post "What is Niacinamide?" .

3. Active ingredient boost: Retinol or peptides

Anti-aging effects require active ingredients:

• Retinol (Vitamin A) promotes cell renewal and refines the skin's appearance.

• Peptides support collagen formation

• Antioxidants (e.g., vitamin C) protect against free radicals.

It's best to introduce it slowly – preferably in the evening, 2-3 times a week, more frequently later. Read more in our Guide "Ingredients explained simply."

4. Rich care: Lipids & protection

As we age, skin loses not only water but also lipids (fats) that strengthen its protective barrier. A richer moisturizer in the evening helps to retain moisture and prevent fine lines caused by dryness.
Daytime care can be lighter – but in the evenings, something more nourishing.

5. It's indispensable: sunscreen

The most effective anti-aging ingredient is sunscreen.
UV radiation is responsible for up to 80% of visible skin aging (loss of elasticity, pigment spots, wrinkles).
Modern UV protection can now be lightweight, nourishing and barely noticeable – ideal as the last step in the morning.

When to start?

Anti-aging doesn't begin with visible wrinkles.
From as early as mid/late 20s, the skin can benefit from antioxidants, moisture and gentle active ingredient care.
Retinol and peptides are classic ingredients in the 30+ / 40+ skincare routine, but can also be used preventively at an earlier age.

Conclusion

A good anti-aging routine doesn't mean using as many products as possible – but rather making the right selection :

1. Gentle cleansing

2. Moisture (Hyaluronic Acid/Niacinamide)

3. Active ingredient (retinol/peptides/vitamin C)

4. Care cream

5. UV protection in the morning

This strengthens the skin barrier, leaving your complexion smoother, more elastic, and fresher – day after day. For additional skincare benefits, use our emmi®SKIN – professional skincare with ultrasound .