Best anti ageing cream Australia
As we age, our skin undergoes natural changes that require extra care and attention. For Australians over 40, factors like sun exposure, dehydration, and skin texture changes become more pronounced. If you have oily skin, you might have noticed that heavy products make your skin look even shinier. But don’t worry – an effective anti-ageing skincare routine doesn’t have to be heavy or greasy.
In fact, oily skin can sometimes become dehydrated due to over-cleansing or using harsh products that strip away the skin’s natural moisture. A properly balanced routine will help restore hydration, reduce excess oil production, and keep your skin youthful, glowing, and protected from the harsh Australian climate.
Here’s a simple yet powerful skincare routine, with step-by-step instructions on how to use each product for optimal results:
Morning Skincare Routine (AM)
Step 1: Oil Cleanser
Even if you have oily skin, using an oil-based cleanser can work wonders. Oil cleansers effectively dissolve excess sebum, sunscreen, makeup, and other impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier.
How to Use:
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Apply a few pumps of the oil cleanser to dry skin.
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Gently massage it in circular motions for about 30 seconds, focusing on oily areas like the T-zone.
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Add a bit of water to emulsify the cleanser until it turns milky.
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Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Why it works: Oil cleansers attract oil, which helps remove excess sebum without leaving your skin tight or dehydrated. This sets the stage for better product absorption in the next steps.
Step 2: Snail Mucin (“Snail Goo”)
Snail mucin, a popular K-beauty ingredient, is renowned for its hydrating, healing, and anti-ageing properties. It contains glycoproteins, hyaluronic acid, and growth factors that help improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and calm inflammation.
How to Use:
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Apply a small amount of snail mucin serum to clean, dry skin.
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Pat gently until fully absorbed.
Why it works: It delivers deep hydration without adding shine, which is crucial for oily, dehydrated skin. It also promotes collagen production and aids in skin repair.
Step 3: Lightweight Moisturizer
Moisturizing oily skin might feel counterintuitive, but skipping this step can make your skin even oilier. Dehydrated skin often compensates by producing more oil. Choose a lightweight, gel-based moisturizer that hydrates without feeling heavy.
How to Use:
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Apply a pea-sized amount to your face and neck.
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Massage gently until fully absorbed.
Why it works: A good moisturizer locks in hydration, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps regulate oil production.
Step 4: Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Sun damage is one of the primary causes of premature ageing, especially in Australia with its high UV index. Daily sunscreen application is non-negotiable for preventing wrinkles, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity.
How to Use:
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Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen as the final step in your morning routine.
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Use a generous amount (about a teaspoon) for your face, neck, and ears.
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Reapply every two hours if you’re spending time outdoors.
Why it works: Sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays, preventing photoageing and sunspots. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula designed for oily skin.
Evening Skincare Routine (PM)
Step 1: Oil Cleanser (Repeat Morning Step)
In the evening, cleansing is essential to remove the day’s buildup of oil, sunscreen, and pollutants.
How to Use:
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Repeat the oil cleansing process as described in the morning routine.
Pro Tip: If you’ve worn makeup or SPF during the day, consider double cleansing by following the oil cleanser with a gentle water-based cleanser.
Step 2: Snail Mucin (Repeat Morning Step)
Hydration is just as important at night. Apply snail mucin as you did in the morning to help your skin repair itself while you sleep.
Step 3: Moisturizer (Repeat Morning Step)
Lock in moisture to support overnight skin regeneration. Stick with a lightweight formula to avoid waking up with an oily sheen.
Optional Nighttime Boost (After 2-3 Weeks)
If you’re happy with the initial results and want to step up your skincare game, consider adding an all-in-one AHA/BHA/Vitamin C toner, like the COSRX AHA/BHA/Vitamin C Daily Toner.
How to Use:
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After cleansing, apply the toner using a cotton pad or your fingers.
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Let it absorb before applying snail mucin.
Why it works: This multi-tasking product gently exfoliates, brightens skin tone, and helps unclog pores, which is particularly beneficial for oily skin.
Long-Term Anti-Ageing Strategy
After consistently following this routine for a month or two, you may want to explore prescription-strength retinoids like tretinoin. Retinoids promote cell turnover, boost collagen production, and reduce fine lines.
How to Get It:
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Speak with your GP about getting a tretinoin prescription.
How to Use:
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Start by applying a pea-sized amount two to three times a week.
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Gradually increase usage as your skin builds tolerance.
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Always apply sunscreen diligently, as retinoids increase sun sensitivity.
Additional Tips for Oily, Ageing Skin in Australia
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support skin hydration from within.
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Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and vitamins C and E.
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Avoid Over-Exfoliating: Excessive exfoliation can disrupt your skin barrier and trigger more oil production.
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Use a Humidifier: Indoor heating and cooling systems can dehydrate your skin; a humidifier helps maintain moisture levels.
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Regular Dermatologist Visits: Get professional advice to adjust your routine based on seasonal changes and skin needs.
Conclusion
Creating an anti-ageing skincare routine for oily skin doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on hydration, protection, and gentle exfoliation, you can achieve radiant, youthful skin without the added shine. The combination of oil cleansing, snail mucin, lightweight moisturizers, and sunscreen forms a solid foundation. From there, incorporating active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C can enhance results.
Consistency is key – stick with the routine for a few months to see noticeable improvements. And remember, protecting your skin from the Australian sun with SPF is the most effective anti-ageing step you can take every day.
