Ageing is natural, but looking your age is optional—especially with the right skincare routine. In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, where pollution levels often cross 200 AQI and UV indexes regularly hit 8+, your skin battles more than just time.
Premature ageing, fine lines, and dullness are common complaints among urban women and men alike, even as early as their late 20s. In fact, a 2023 skincare survey found that 68% of Indians in metro areas noticed signs of ageing before the age of 35. But there’s good news: a consistent anti-ageing skincare routine can dramatically slow down this process.
This 11-step guide isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about building a dermatologist-approved ritual using active ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid that suit Indian skin and climate. Whether you’re dealing with pigmentation, sun spots, or loss of elasticity, these steps are your daily defence plan to look fresher, younger, and more radiant every single day—no filters required.
Why should you start an anti-ageing skincare routine in your mid-20s?
Starting an anti-ageing skincare routine in your mid-20s may sound early, but it’s actually the perfect time. By your mid-20s, collagen production naturally begins to decline, and environmental stressors like sun exposure, pollution, and blue light from screens start showing long-term effects on your skin.
Fine lines, dullness, and uneven texture can creep in subtly. An early skincare routine helps protect and repair your skin before visible signs appear. Think of it as prevention rather than cure. Using ingredients like antioxidants, SPF, and light retinoids can strengthen your skin’s barrier, boost hydration, and preserve youthful glow. It’s easier to maintain healthy skin now than to reverse deep wrinkles later. Your future self will thank you!
Ready to Get Younger? Let’s Follow these 11 Steps Anti Skincare Routine
If you’re serious about slowing down the signs of ageing, it’s time to go beyond the basic cleanse-moisturise routine. Healthy, youthful-looking skin needs a structured and consistent approach that targets early signs like fine lines, dullness, and sagging. Here’s your complete 11-step anti-ageing skincare routine, crafted to support your skin’s needs—day and night.
Step 1: Gentle Cleanser (AM & PM)
Start and end your day with a mild, sulphate-free cleanser that removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin’s natural moisture. Look for cleansers with ingredients like glycerin or ceramides. Avoid harsh scrubs or foaming formulas that can dry or irritate mature or sensitive skin.
Step 2: Exfoliation (2–3 Times a Week)
Exfoliation helps slough off dead skin cells and boosts cell turnover—essential for youthful glow. Use chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) 2–3 times a week depending on your skin type. Avoid over-exfoliating, which can damage your skin barrier and cause redness.
Step 3: Toner (AM & PM)
A good toner balances your skin’s pH after cleansing and preps it for better absorption of upcoming products. Choose alcohol-free toners with soothing or hydrating ingredients like rose water, witch hazel, or hyaluronic acid to refresh and calm your skin.
Step 4: Essence (AM & PM)
An essence is a watery skincare product packed with anti-ageing ingredients that hydrate deeply and help repair skin at a cellular level. Popular in K-beauty routines, this step improves texture and radiance while enhancing the absorption of your serum and moisturiser.
Step 5: Serum (AM & PM)
Serums are your powerhouse treatment step. For daytime, opt for Vitamin C serums to protect against sun damage and even out skin tone. At night, go for serums with retinol or peptides to stimulate collagen and smooth fine lines. Don’t forget: patch test and start slow with active ingredients.
Step 6: Eye Cream (AM & PM)
The skin around your eyes is thin and often the first place to show wrinkles. A nourishing eye cream with ingredients like caffeine, peptides, or hyaluronic acid can reduce puffiness, dark circles, and crow’s feet. Use your ring finger to tap it in gently.
Step 7: Moisturizer (AM & PM)
Moisturisers lock in all your previous layers and provide essential hydration. Choose lighter, non-greasy textures in the morning, and richer, more nourishing formulas at night. Look for ceramides, niacinamide, or squalane to strengthen and soothe ageing skin.
Step 8: Face Oil (Optional – PM)
If your skin feels dry or flaky, especially during winter or in drier climates, a few drops of face oil at night can make a difference. Oils like rosehip, argan, or marula help seal in moisture and support skin elasticity and repair.
Step 9: Sunscreen (AM Only – Never Skip!)
This is the most important anti-ageing product in your entire routine. UV rays are responsible for up to 90% of visible skin ageing. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days or when staying indoors. Reapply every 2–3 hours when exposed to the sun.
Step 10: Weekly Mask (1–2 Times a Week)
Face masks give your skin an intensive boost. Use hydrating masks with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or rejuvenating masks with antioxidants. Clay or charcoal masks are ideal for detoxing clogged pores if your skin tends to get oily.
Step 11: Healthy Lifestyle & Consistency
Your skincare products can only do so much if your lifestyle doesn’t support skin health. Build these habits into your daily life:
- Diet: Eat antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts.
- Hydration: Drink at least 2–3 litres of water a day.
- Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep to allow your skin to repair.
- Exercise & Stress Reduction: Movement boosts circulation while stress management keeps cortisol (ageing hormone) in check.
- Long-Term Commitment: Visible results don’t happen overnight. Stick to your routine consistently for at least 6–8 weeks to start seeing real change.
Your skin is your lifelong companion—treat it with patience, care, and love. This 11-step anti-ageing skincare routine is your personal blueprint to glow younger every day.
Conclusion:
A glowing, youthful complexion isn’t just about good genes—it’s actually about smart choices of products and consistent care. This 11-step anti-ageing skincare routine offers a complete approach to protect, nourish, and renew your skin in day to day life.
Starting from cleansing and hydration to sun protection and lifestyle habits, every step plays a role in slowing down visible signs of ageing. Starting early and staying committed can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s texture, tone, and overall radiance.
For those looking to create their own anti-ageing skincare line with trusted formulations, Reviera Overseas offers expertly crafted private label solutions tailored to today’s skin concerns. With the right blend of science-backed ingredients and a focus on Indian skin types, your brand can deliver real results. Age gracefully—with the right routine and the right partners.