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Despite the promises of cosmetics advertisements, age is something that cannot be defied; growing old is inevitable. In today’s heavily industrialized society, many factors help speed up the aging process, like pollution and the changing environment.

“External signs of aging may appear from as early as age 25,” said Dr. Colin D’silva, who was speaking at a skincare workshop recently organized by Procter & Gamble at the Four Seasons Hotel in Jakarta.

These signs include fine lines and wrinkles, blotches, age spots, skin dryness and loss of radiance that make you look older than you actually are.

“There are two components that drive the skin to age,” Dr. John E. Oblong added. “First, there is the internal aging process that affects our biogenetics, including metabolism efficiency and our response to diseases.”

Reduced metabolism also slows the natural regeneration of our skin, lengthening the process for new skin cells to replace dead skin. It also delays the production of collagen and elastin, proteins that give skin natural moisture and suppleness.

“The second component is the interaction of our skin with the environment,” Oblong said. “The main elements that really accelerate the aging process of our skin are UV radiation from sun exposure and pollution.”

Other factors include gravity, smoking and repetitive facial expressions. And while no one can escape age, there are still ways to delay premature aging.

“It all depends on your habits and lifestyle,” said Dian, a beauty consultant. “When you stay up late and smoke and drink alcohol, you should realize that you’re the one who is causing your skin to age prematurely.” Aside from a healthy lifestyle, you can also develop a strict skin regimen to maintain youthfulness.

Experts emphasize the importance of cleaning, toning and moisturizing your skin twice a day. “Start by cleansing your face with a facial cleanser when you get up from bed,” Dian said.

Always consider your skin type before choosing a facial cleanser. Avoid using soap, as its alkaline content will disrupt your skin’s natural condition. Instead, use a mild, non-irritating cleanser to help retain your skin’s natural oils.

After this, you can then apply an anti-aging serum, as these usually contain vitamins and minerals to fight wrinkles.

Dian advises using tinted moisturizer with SPF for daily use after the serum.

“It’s important to use both serum and moisturizer for our skin,” Dian said. “Serum is absorbed into the skin. It nourishes and revitalizes the skin from the inside. Moisturizer works from the outside by keeping your skin surface well-hydrated.”

Applying cream around the eyes is also important. This is where skin is thinnest and most prone to wrinkles and dark circles. A good eye cream can help reduce fine lines and puffiness and banish dark circles.

“Dark circles are usually caused by fatigue and lack of sleep,” Dian said. “It signifies that the blood circulation in that area is disturbed. Eye cream, when applied in a correct manner, will help rectify this condition.”

To lighten dark circles, massage cream around the eyes, starting from below the eyes, to the corners and the area beneath the eyebrows, with light, circular strokes. “Pressing lightly on the skin around the eyes will also help to boost blood circulation,” she added.

When all these steps are completed, you are now literally ready to go out and face your day. But the skincare routine does not end here. It must be repeated before bedtime.

“It’s imperative to repeat the procedure at night,” Dian said. “During the night, when we sleep, the skin begins to shed its dead cells and generate new cells. It’s the time when the skin needs vitamins and nutrition the most.”

Sleeping in an air-conditioned bedroom can also rob your skin off its natural moisture. Therefore, using night serum, moisturizer and eye cream after you cleanse your face will help in rehydrating the skin.

In addition to this daily regimen, applying a facial mask for 15-20 minutes once a week will also help preserve your skin.

“Normal aging will still occur,” Oblong said. “Your skin will still be going through changes. However, if you start taking control now, it can help to maintain a healthy and youthful appearance of your skin for a long time.”