The Best Skincare Ingredients for Mature Skin: What to Look For and Why
As we age, our skin changes — and so should our skincare. From declining collagen levels to slower cell turnover and increased dryness, mature skin requires ingredients that nourish, protect, and support long-term skin health. But with so many products on the market, how do you know which ingredients actually work?
In this guide, we break down the most effective active ingredients for mature skin, what they do, and how to incorporate them into your routine. Whether you’re navigating fine lines, dullness, or loss of elasticity, these are the essentials your skin will thank you for.
1. Retinol (Vitamin A)
Retinol is one of the most researched and recommended ingredients for ageing skin. A derivative of Vitamin A, retinol promotes collagen production, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and speeds up cell turnover.
Used regularly, it can:
Improve skin texture and firmness
Diminish pigmentation
Smooth out lines and rough patches
We recommend starting with a professional-grade retinol such as SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 and working with a clinician to tailor your usage. Retinol should always be introduced gradually and followed with SPF daily.
2. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage caused by sun exposure, pollution, and ageing. It also brightens the skin and supports collagen production.
A favourite among clinicians is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, a potent blend of 15% L-ascorbic acid, 1% Vitamin E, and 0.5% ferulic acid. It’s ideal for:
Brightening uneven skin tone
Reducing oxidative stress
Enhancing skin firmness over time
Vitamin C is best used in the morning under your moisturiser and sunscreen.
3. Hyaluronic Acid
As we age, our skin loses moisture and plumpness. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that attracts water to the skin, delivering intense hydration without heaviness.
Look for serums like SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier, which not only contains hyaluronic acid but also Proxylane and purple rice extract to boost and preserve your skin’s moisture barrier.
This ingredient helps:
Improve skin elasticity
Smooth out fine lines caused by dehydration
Enhance the effect of other actives
4. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide is a multitasker, perfect for mature skin with multiple concerns. It improves skin barrier function, reduces inflammation, and helps regulate pigmentation.
Incorporating niacinamide can help with:
Reducing redness and sensitivity
Strengthening the skin’s resilience
Evening out tone and fading dark spots
It pairs well with nearly all other actives, including retinol and Vitamin C, making it an easy addition to your routine.
5. Peptides
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that stimulate collagen and elastin production. In other words, they tell your skin to behave like its younger self.
Peptides are ideal for:
Supporting firmness and elasticity
Reducing the appearance of deep lines
Enhancing the effects of more active treatments
Peptide-rich serums or moisturisers can be used daily and are often well-tolerated by sensitive or dry skin types.
6. SPF (Broad Spectrum, Daily Use)
No matter how advanced your skincare routine is, it’s incomplete without sun protection. UV damage is one of the primary drivers of premature ageing.
We recommend daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 50+, even on cloudy days. Some of the most elegant and non-greasy options are available through our Skin Care product range.
How to Build a Skincare Routine for Ageing Skin
Start simple, and build slowly. Here’s a basic framework:
Morning:
Cleanser
Vitamin C serum
Moisturiser with peptides or niacinamide
SPF
Evening:
Gentle cleanser
Retinol (2–3 times per week to start)
Hyaluronic acid serum
Barrier-supporting moisturiser
For best results, book a consultation with one of our Dermal Clinicians who can tailor a program based on your skin’s needs, goals, and tolerance levels.
Support from In-Clinic Treatments
Skincare ingredients are powerful, but pairing them with in-clinic treatments can accelerate your results. Many of our clients choose to complement their home routines with:
Facials designed to boost hydration and radiance
Skin Rejuvenation to improve tone and texture
Fotona Laser Treatments for deeper collagen stimulation and skin tightening
These professional treatments work synergistically with your skincare to deliver long-lasting results and improved skin confidence.
In Summary
Skincare for mature skin doesn’t need to be complicated — but it should be strategic. Choosing evidence-based ingredients like retinol, Vitamin C, peptides, and hyaluronic acid can dramatically improve how your skin looks and feels.
At Platinum Cosmetics, we believe in combining professional guidance with clinical-grade skincare, including trusted brands like SkinCeuticals. Whether you’re building a new routine or refining an existing one, we’re here to help.
Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation at our Port Melbourne clinic and get personalised advice from our expert team.