*PR: Contains gifted and items bought by me

Effective Skincare for Acne Ageing Skin

Finding a skincare routine that works for you can be hard. After my 2017 before and after skincare with Environ. I finally began to see significant improvements to my skin while learning and becoming passionate about skincare. Especially natural clean skincare that’s been stripped of unnecessary ingredients and that are cruelty-free, vegan, and kinder to the environment.

Prior to using Environ skincare, I had my fair share of trailing products that just hadn’t worked as well as they’ve claimed on my skin and made no difference to my hormonal acne which I developed in my mid-20’s at university.

Just before I started my Environ journey. I was researching into effective ingredients in skincare to improve acne and haven’t stopped researching ever since. For some time, I was using this effective skincare regime. Then over the past 3 years, I began using cult cosmetics company DECIEM brands: The Ordinary and NIOD and more recently FaceTheory.

After successfully using Environ, I chose these brands to use next as they are more affordable and accessible.

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary & Facetheory skincare

Like Environ, their products are cutting-edge, with dermatologically backed formulations that tackle most skin concerns, while being proudly cruelty-free, vegan and utilising only the most necessary ingredients to ensure kindness to the skin is a priority. While being more sustainable than most cosmetic giants and not using 'fillers' in products.

With so many great products by The Ordinary, it can be a little hard to decide what to try. So, here are some of DECIEM’s most effective best-selling skincare products that are a must-try if they sound like something that could improve your specific skincare needs – in particular, carefully formulated products suited for ageing and acne-prone skin which is my skincare need.

For some like me, ageing can sometimes result in thinning hair. So, to combat this, I’ve included a product to encourage hair density, together with my recommendations of SPF cosmetics that tackle the unwanted effects of sun damage on the skin that can often cause further signs of ageing, such as skin pigmentation issues and the increase of your susceptibility to fine lines and wrinkles.

1. Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary skincare, hydrators, oils & peptides

A beloved eye serum formulated by The Ordinary, this vegan and cruelty-free Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG solution is perfect for targeting signs of ageing. Utilising scientifically-backed studies of caffeine’s benefits in reducing skin pigmentation and increasing blood flow to the skin, its 5% concentration reduces puffiness around the eyes and the appearance of dark circles by increasing hydration right from the core.

This effect is exemplified with the incorporation of EGCG, a compound found within green tea, to act as an anti-inflammatory to soothe the eye area and essentially strengthen the skin. Finish by applying an eye cream to speed up the results.

For just £6.40, this product couldn’t be more perfect. It is suitable for usage on all skin types due to its kind-to-skin formula, meaning anyone seeking to restore that youthful glow can enjoy this product.

2. AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

This super-affordable exfoliating product is specifically designed to fight against acne and blemishes on the skin while simultaneously being a great choice for those seeking a product to reduce the effects of ageing.

The AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is perfect for bringing back that desired radiance to your face. For just £6.30, you can give your skin the hydration it craves and unclog pores with this rejuvenating solution that’s vegan-friendly and uses a variety of plant-based ingredients.

With a carefully crafted formulation of AHAs, – citric, glycolic, lactic, and tartaric acids - your skin will be brightened, and your skin’s texture softened by exfoliating the top layer of the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and evening out your complexion.

The additional infusion of the BHA salicylic acid, a chemical found in most skincare products and known for its benefits of unclogging pores from deep within the skin to exfoliate and cleanse acne-causing oils and bacteria that often build upon the face.

Finish up this skincare treatment with a moisturiser and one of the plant oils mentioned below. Especially if your skin is sensitive and prone to irritation – by doing so, you will ensure your skin remains hydrated and moisturised, as the peeling solution can often dry out the skin when targeting pore congestion.

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary skincare, plant based oils

3. Retinol 1% in Squalane

Want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while working to tackle blemishes on the skin? Try out The Ordinary’s Retinol 1% in Squalane serum. As a formulation of vitamin A, retinol stimulates the development of collagen to reduce fine lines on the skin and encourages the production of new blood vessels to restore radiance in the face.

As it can often be a harsh ingredient, The Ordinary takes on board scientific advice and recommends using smaller concentrations to ensure your skin doesn’t react negatively and instead steadily builds up a tolerance. If it’s your first time using retinol in skincare, The Ordinary’s Retinol 0.2% in Squalane may be more suitable for you to ensure you get all the benefits of this miracle product without irritation.

The rest of the serum’s vegan composition is silicon and alcohol-free to ensure this product doesn’t irritate your skin further. And the moisturising ingredient squalene builds upon this by reducing redness on the face with its anti-inflammatory properties while working to unclog pores and fight against acne.

Ultimately, this product is a gamechanger, working to tackle signs of ageing and acne in one solution. Vitamin A is the main ingredient in most of the Environ skincare, which is what helped me to get rid of hormonal acne in conjunction with plant-based supplements and adopting a healthy wholefood diet.

4. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

The Ordinary’s £6.80 Natural Moisturising Factors + HA surface hydration formula is the ideal choice for targeting the source of acne, with a carefully sourced formula that ensures the outer layer of skin is protected and hydrated. Particularly for those with a combination-oily skin type like mine. This product will work wonders, with a slightly thicker formula that makes sure to not cause excess production of oil on the skin.

Plus, this product contains no fragrance or alcohol to ensure your skin will be nourished and cared for with no possible irritation caused. The products natural moisturising factors include multiple beneficial amino acids and compounds that naturally occur in the skin, to allow your skin to work on repairing damage by maintaining its hydration levels and bringing back the skin’s radiance.

And the infusion of hyaluronic acid as an active ingredient means this product can also help with anti-ageing, with its hydrating qualities helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. So, when looking for a product that can even out your complexion and reduce blemishes and signs of ageing on the skin, this cruelty-free and vegan product is one to try.

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary skincare, Masque, Exfoliators, & Vitamin C

5. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

This £8 skin exfoliator does a wonderful job at smoothing out the skin’s texture by rejuvenating it from its core. Use this toner after cleansing to ensure maximum results and watch your skin’s radiance be restored.

Just like most of the products by The Ordinary, this Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is alcohol, oil, and fragrance-free – meaning even the most sensitive of skin types can utilise this effective product - while simultaneously being cruelty-free and suitable for vegans.

Formulated with 7% glycolic acid and amino acids, your skin will be hydrated and exfoliated to encourage the growth of healthy new skin cells and soothed and softened with the infusion of aloe vera.

If you’re struggling with acne, the added ingredient of the plant-based Tasmanian pepperberry will act as an anti-inflammatory to repair the function of the skin’s barrier, while also being perfect for ageing skin as both this ingredient and the antioxidant ginseng increases the production of collagen in the skin.

If you seek to restore hydration while also effectively tackling acne and signs of ageing on the face, this could be one to try.

6. High-Adherence Silicone Primer

This pore-minimising primer couldn’t be more affordable, priced at £3.90. The High-Adherence Silicone Primer works well by creating an effortlessly even and smooth base before applying makeup. Its neutral pH and vegan-friendly formulation of ingredients ensure everyone, no matter their skin type can enjoy the benefits of this pre-makeup essential.

The infusion of adaptive silicones means this product has a matte effect upon the skin that blurs pores to leave you with that idyllic flawless and smooth finish, yet still acting as a hydrating product, meaning it is perfect for oily skin types.

Its easy tube applicator means it can be easily squeezed onto skin and spread across the face to minimise the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pores.

7. Argireline Solution 10%

This lightweight serum is available for £7.30 and is a popular choice among those wanting to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, more so around the eye area and forehead – where most experience prominent signs of ageing.

The solutions formula is made up of a 10% Argireline peptide complex. Used in many dermal skincare products. This Argireline skincare encourages the production of collagen and smooths out your skin’s complexion to prevent the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. The formula is water-based to exemplify the effects of this ingredient in accordance with the evidence found in many studies.

Its recommended, however, to not use products infused with copper peptides when applying this product, as it may interfere with the results. With effective results against signs of ageing, this cutting-edge product is worth trying.

8. 100% Plant-Derived Squalane

Perfect for vegans and those interested in clean beauty, this 100% Plant-Derived Squalane solution was created to hydrate and rejuvenate dry skin – particularly effective for ageing skin. Its composition is made up of squalene in its more organic form, so it is suitable for all skin types, so there’s no fear of irritation.

The hydrocarbon squalene is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and thus is effective in targeting redness on the face - meaning this product would be great for those with rosacea. Squalene’s hydrating qualities ensure your skin remains soothed and soft to the touch and fights against the loss of hydration that can come with ageing.

Plus, it’s not only for your face. To protect against heat and breakages, this product is perfect for hair, while also giving your hair a glossy sheen. So, you can use this product or ideally the Hemi-Squalane version with the knowledge that it’ll be kind to your skin and will produce noticeable results on hair and skin for only £3.90.

The original squalene works well on hair, but you should be careful not to use too much. So, I’d advise the Hemi-Squalane to reduce the risk of your locks looking oily.

9. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

The Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% facial serum infuses gentle skin vitamins and minerals to fight against blemishes making it a great purchase for those with acne-prone skin. Apply daily before following up with a moisturiser, such as The Ordinary’s Natural Moisturising Factors + HA lightweight cream. A daily moisturiser I’ve used for almost 3 years.

The serum provides essential nutrients Vitamin B and niacinamide. By preventing acne-causing sebum from developing on the skin, in turn reducing the appearance of impurities on the face as pores are deeply cleared of congestion caused by excess oils.

This crucial ingredient works together with zinc to help reduce the appearance of redness and fight against irritation, while simultaneously balancing out sebum secretion.

This £10 for 60ml or £5.60 for 30ml vegan-friendly serum could soon become your go-to when looking for a product to fight against blemishes.

10. Squalane Cleanser

The Squalane Cleanser takes advantage of the nourishing and hydrating benefits of the plant-derived ingredient squalene by infusing it into this vegan, cruelty-free and kind to skin moisturising daily facial cleanser.

Particularly effective in gently removing makeup, squalene breaks down to dissolve the dirt and excess oils while working hard to moisturise and hydrate the skin at the same time. The product breaks down into an oil-like consistency that allows the sucrose esters infused into the cleanser to clean the skin.

At first, I wasn’t keen on this cleanser, as I’ve always used facial washes that lather into a foamy soap, whereas this doesn’t so I felt that it wasn’t cleaning my skin thoroughly. But once you see that there’s no makeup residue left behind while toning, you’ll realise that it does effectively clean your skin.

And in fact, ingredients that are added to make a cleanser foam are there to make you feel that they are cleaning the skin better, whereas oil-based cleansers are considered more effective according to skincare experts.

This product would also be an ideal choice for ageing skin with its hydrating benefits, and acne-prone skin with its effectiveness at unclogging pores. Plus, it’s perfect for all skin types due to being free of soap and fragrance, meaning there should be no fears of your skin being irritated.

Particularly for those who wear makeup often, I suggest giving this product a shot. It’s affordable and couldn’t be more effective at removing makeup while simultaneously tackling the causes of acne and impurities.

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary skincare, Cleanser, Exfoliator & Moisturiser

11. Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

If you want to get rid of blemishes while keeping your skin nourished then The Ordinary’s fragrance-free, vegan-friendly, and cruelty-free Salicylic Acid formula proves to be an effective treatment for those with acne-prone and irritable skin.

The Salicylic Acid 2% Masque has an almost jelly-like texture that blends out easily onto the skin before drying within 5 minutes. The infusion of salicylic acid is particularly beneficial.

Recognised by dermatologists and the skincare industry for many years, the acid acts as a gentle exfoliator to unclog pores to prevent the growth of acne, while fighting against redness and swelling on the skin.

This is combined with charcoal and a range of gentle clays to cleanse the skin from the core and encourage the growth of new, healthy skin cells. Best applied at night, this cleanser is effective at targeting the presence of acne already on the face while fighting against the growth of impurities in the future.

Leave your skin feeling smooth, soft, and radiant while effectively reducing blemishes. For three years this has been my holy-grail face mask. I use it once a week to reduce sebum clogging my pores.

12. Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone

The Vitamin C Suspension 30% in Silicone is a vegan formula that harnesses the age-rewind effects of Vitamin C, making up 30% of its composition. For £6.40, this lightweight, water-free product will reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and bring back that youthful complexion with continued and consistent use.

Following up scientific evidence of Vitamin C’s effectiveness at brightening and creating a radiant, smooth complexion, The Ordinary utilises it as a key ingredient, alongside light silicones to ensure a smooth application that won’t irritate the skin.

When first using the product, it may be wise to balance it out with one of The Ordinary’s facial creams such as the HA moisturiser to build up the skin’s tolerance to Vitamin C as this product uses a high concentration.

If you’re eager to bring back radiance and effortlessly smooth skin to your face, this is the product for you. The Ordinary’s expertly crafted formula of Vitamin C to improve the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes.

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary Colours, Coverage & Serum Foundation

13. Coverage Foundation

Not only does The Ordinary exceed in its line of innovative skincare products, but this affordable Coverage Foundation will also give your skin a beautiful flawless base with a semi-matte finish for £5.90.

Coming in 21 shades to help you find your perfect match, this full-coverage liquid foundation is easily buildable on the skin, with pigments suspended in a spreadability system that will give you that no-makeup-makeup look by blending out seamlessly. With SPF 15 infused into the formula, you’ll get moderate protection from sun exposure too.

To improve the look of the foundation even further, use The Ordinary’s High-Adherence Silicon Primer beforehand. When it comes to affordable foundations, The Ordinary shouldn’t be overlooked. This product gives you all the benefits of a luxury foundation without the price tag. And, of course, it’s made vegan and cruelty-free.

14. Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

Retailing for £15.80, this Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is designed specifically for hair health, using only the most essential ingredients that are scientifically proven to strengthen, nourish and volumise all hair types. Using a concentrated vegan formula of naturally sourced extracts and caffeine, this product can become a holy grail for anyone looking to reduce signs of hair loss.

Taking advantage of potent natural extracts, your hair will appear thicker and healthier, with the infusion of caffeine helping to encourage the growth of hair right from the root by increasing the scalps level of blood circulation.

Use once a day and massage into the scalp to allow the product to get to work transforming the quality of your hair to make it fuller in time with consistent use.

15. 100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil

Perfect for restoring the brightness in your skin, this £14.90 daily formula is made up of 100% organic sea-buckthorn berry oil to protect and strengthen the skin’s barrier. As this oil is utilised in its most pure form, it can leave behind a tinted orange hue on the skin. To tackle this, it’s recommended to dilute with another plant oil or moisturiser to ensure you can maximise the benefits of this product.

From a year and a half of experience using this product, you’re likely to stain clothing and pillows while looking like an Oompa Loompa. But don’t let that put you off, as Sea Buckthorn Oil is amazing. I’ve converted my Mum, Nan and Auntie, into big fans of this unique plant oil. It just takes time to get used to not getting this orange oil everywhere.

So, I do recommend mixing it with another product. Or wearing the oil as a face mask for a couple of hours for it to sink into the dermal layers of your skin. Just make sure you’re not expecting any visitors, as it does look rather funny.

Sourced naturally, this vegan-friendly and kind-to-skin formula hydrates the skin right from its core. With the omega 7 properties of this organic oil helping to nourish the skin, meaning this product is perfect to protect the skin from sun exposure.

In addition to these benefits, the infusion of antioxidants act as a barrier against radical damage and maintain the health of skin cells at the surface.

Its 100% organic composition means even the most sensitive of skin types can enjoy the protecting and nourishing qualities of this formula that’s safe to use every day.

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary hair care Multi-Peptide Serum for hair density

16. 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

Formulated for all skin types, this £9 facial oil is perfect for everyday use for any skin type, but particularly for those with ageing skin. As its composition is made up of 100% pure rosehip seed oil, this product is completely plant-based and suitable for vegans and those with sensitive skin.

The pressed seed oil is recognised for its incredible effects on the skin. Not only does it act as an outstanding hydrator and moisturiser, but the organic oil fights against signs of ageing by encouraging the production of collagen, reducing skin pigmentation, and protecting against UV exposure with its qualities of linoleic and linolenic acids.

This product should be worth a shot if your skin is prone to irritation, as the formulation of totally organic and naturally sourced rosehip seed oil means it’s as kind to skin as possible, ensuring you receive all the benefits and none of the irritation.

For many years until I did my research, I was against using facial oils on my skin as I had a very oily t-zone so naturally didn’t want to use them. But oils are great at reducing oily skin, but only if they are non-comedogenic. If you have acne and oily skin you must avoid comedogenic skincare, as they tend to cause blackheads by blocking the pores of the skin.

Always investigate the ingredients list and make sure none of the ingredients has a comedogenic rating above 2 but ideally aim for 0-1. And you’ll gradually say goodbye to pore-clogging ingredients found in mainstream skincare, which is surprisingly in most skincare such as well-known branded products that claim to be acne-fighting.

17. Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants

The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants retails for just under £9 and is a sunscreen that goes above and beyond on the skin. Made friendly for vegans and without animal testing, this alcohol-free product is perfect for all skin types and tones and protects the skin’s barrier to ensure it remains healthy.

Its lightweight formula glides effortlessly onto the skin without leaving behind an oily film and soaks into the skin while locking in moisture and nourishment. Zinc Oxide helps prevent the effects of sun exposure on the skin, while additionally helping to increase the production of collagen and clearing out and shrinking acne-causing congestion in the pores.

The formula’s silicone compounds are scientifically proven to hold ingredients in a permeable barrier. And the products mixture of antioxidants adds an extra layer of protection against UV radiation. So, for tackling signs of ageing and the causes of acne in the skin, this fan-favourite product by The Ordinary is worth a try. If not, you may find my vegan & cruelty-free SPF facial serums post helpful.

Sian Victoria © - The Ordinary skincare, Primer & SPF

18. NIOD Fractionated Eye-Contour Concentrate (FECC)

This ground-breaking NIOD Fractionated Eye-Contour Concentrate treatment is one of the best on the market when seeking a product to fight against the visible signs of ageing.

While at a more luxury price point of £46, for the results it has, it’s worth trying. Especially if you are seeking to bring back the desired freshness and radiance to your eye area with the carefully crafted formula that targets puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.

28 clinical technologies, including hyaluronic acid and collagen, are infused into this product that has been scientifically proven to reduce the signs of ageing on the skin to target wrinkles and boost the production of elasticity that can be lost with ageing. It helps to even out the texture of the skin by the eye area being exfoliated with vitamin C and niacinamide.

If you’re looking to invest in your skin, this effective product will sit lightly on the face and produce noticeable results after a few uses, and a little goes a long way.

19. NIOD Modulating Glucosides (MG)

Perfect for sensitive and irritation-prone skin, this NIOD Modulating Glucosides pops up on the market for £25 and is certainly one to try. Apply this gentle serum to the face morning and night to reduce redness and soothe dryness by moisturising and nourishing the skin from deep within.

Its infusion of bio-active glucosides and a multi-molecular-lipid complex directly targets the causes of irritation in the skin by strengthening its barrier and reducing irritation and burning. To ultimately restore your skin to its most flawless and even complexion.

Its formula is backed by science and proven to have effective results on sensitive skin types, particularly those with rosacea, eczema, and dermatitis. And, just like NIOD’s other skincare products, its formulas are dermatologically backed, suitable for vegans and made without testing on animals.

Sian Victoria © - NIOD skincare, Survival 30, Modulating Glucosides & Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate

20. NIOD Survival 30

NIOD’s Survival range of skincare is perfect for tackling the effects ageing has on the skin. The NIOD Survival 30 costs £27 and is a lightweight solution designed to protect the skin from the unwanted ageing effects of sunlight with a dispersed UVB and UVA mineral formulation. Effortlessly gliding onto the skin when applying before exposure to UV.

With a scientifically backed ingredient composition, you can feel confident in the fact that the SPF formulation in this product will do exactly what it claims and will get to work restoring that healthy, glowy, youthful complexion you seek.

I personally love using this as it has a slight tint of neutral colour despite it not being a BB cream, so it helps to even the skin tone which encourages me to use less foundation throughout the summer. But ideally, SPF should be used all year round to be proactive at delaying signs of photoaging.

And you can feel great knowing this product is made cruelty-free and vegan, as well as free of silicons and alcohol to ensure the benefits of this solution can be enjoyed by all skin types – even the most sensitive.

To conclude

There we have it. A compilation of my favourite beauty products by The Ordinary and Noid that have helped me reduce the unwanted effects of ageing and acne-prone skin over the past three years. Let me know if you try any of these products and if they work just as well for you as they did for me.

Remember that a new skincare regime can take up to 3 months to show any visible changes to the appearance of your skin. So, be consistent. For my oily-combination skin type, I used the squalene cleanser, Argireline, Caffeine, Niacinamide and Natural Moisturising Factors in the morning.

Followed by the cleanser, Glycolic Acid, Caffeine, and the Vitamin C 30%, Seabuckthorn oil and Rosehip oil mixed into the Natural Moisturising Factors at night. Then once a week I’d take it in turns using the AHA Peel or Salicylic Masque, rotating week to week.

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20 Best Acne Ageing Skincare to try by The Ordinary