Aging is a natural part of life (and, let’s be honest, is a privilege). As we get older, it’s inevitable that our skin will show those biological changes like fine lines and wrinkles, lax skin and dark spots. This is due to our body slowing down, and that includes the lagging production of collagen and elastin, which gives the skin that plump and bouncy appearance. “Collagen production slows significantly as we age, beginning in our 20s but dropping dramatically once we hit menopause,” says Dr. Geeta Yadav, dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto. As the years pass, cells in our skin lose their ability to function, which causes the skin to sag. This change impacts the volume and structure of the face.
While stopping the clock isn’t possible, there are ways to help skin look healthy, lifted and glowing throughout every phase of life. Avène’s new Dermabsolu lineup consists of four science-backed products—the Concentrated Reshaping Serum, the Reshaping Day Cream, the Filler Eye Contour Cream and the Intensive Reshaping Night Cream. Created specifically for women over the age of 40, each formula contains a trio of powerful active ingredients to help the skin with loss of structure, dryness and lack of uniformity.
Get to know Dermabsolu and how it’s able to boost skin density and resculpt aging skin.
Using the right active ingredients in your skincare routine is one of the most important actions you can take to achieve a radiant complexion at any age. The entire Dermabsolu collection contains three active ingredients that are backed by dermatologists.
Bakuchiol
A plant-based alternative to retinol, bakuchiol is an extract that comes from the seeds of the babchi plant. It works by targeting the mechanical functions of the skin, boosting collagen synthesis which helps to improve the texture of the skin, enhance its density and maintain volume levels. “Retinol is one of the most well-studied and effective ingredients for treating signs of aging, but many of my patients are reluctant to use it because it can be very irritating to the skin,” explains Yadav. Studies have shown that bakuchiol can deliver results that are comparable to retinol but is more easily tolerated by the skin and is less likely to cause irritation.
Niacinamide
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is one of those skincare ingredients that checks off multiple boxes when it comes to skin benefits. Yadav shares that in the Dermabsolu range, niacinamide is used to help combat discolouration and hyperpigmentation with its powerful skin-brightening abilities.
Pro-Ceramides
The main building block of great skin is hydration, and pro-ceramides are essential to nourish as they help to support a healthy skin barrier. “Naturally found in our skin, ceramides are fats that keep the complexion soft and nourished, and they prevent water loss,” says Yadav. Because our natural levels of ceramides begin to dip as we age, using topical ceramides like the ones found in Dermabsolu will help fortify the skin, making it less susceptible to dryness and irritation.
“A concept that comes from cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery, the ‘triangle of youth’ illustrates how the balance of one’s facial volume and contours can shift with age,” shares Yadav. Young faces typically have full, high cheekbones and a defined jawline and as we age, that triangle inverts, making features look tired.
Formulated to target aging skin, Dermabsolu can be used as a preventative routine to help tackle some of these skin concerns, even before they occur. “Using Dermabsolu in your early 40s will help fight against the collagen loss associated with menopause,” she says. Skin is always in a state of change, and this is especially true during menopause. Yadav recommends incorporating the range into a skincare regimen to support your skin during this time as the high-performance formulas can make an impact on the skin’s hydration levels, along with helping to address volume loss.
Backed by 33 clinical studies, the four-product collection contains all the necessary steps to tackle aging skin, while still being safe for those with sensitivities or that irritate easily. Along with the three key ingredients, the Concentrated Reshaping Serum contains vanilla polyphenols to boost natural hyaluronic acid synthesis and has a lightweight, non-greasy texture. The Reshaping Day Cream has a smooth, velvety texture that melts into the skin, providing over 24-hours of moisture in an eco-conscious refillable jar makes it easy to top up when you’re running low. The Filler Eye Contour Cream does exactly what the name suggests. With its soothing massaging applicator, it fills in under-eye wrinkles and helps correct dark circles and puffiness.
The hero product in the range is the Intensive Reshaping Night Cream. It’s a dynamic solution that works while you sleep to resculpt facial volume, redefine the contours of the face and leaves the skin feeling nourished and plump in the morning. Containing micro-droplets of oil, the formula delivers its ingredients deep into the skin for optimal absorption. Tailored for nightly use, apply a thin layer to the face, neck and décolleté or apply a thicker layer once to three times per week as a mask. Clinical studies found that after two months of use, women noticed their skin on average had a 30 per cent reduction in sagging along with a more even skin tone, amplified radiance and from the very first application, they felt their skin was intensely nourished.
“Dermabsolu comprehensively addresses aging skin by targeting the three most common concerns associated with mature skin—dryness, dullness and volume loss,” explains Yadav. By combatting these concerns simultaneously, you’re giving your skin the support it needs as it ages so you’re able to continue to glow through the years.