Anti-Aging Playbook

A simple, evidence-based path to smoother texture and fewer fine lines.

This playbook is for you if you have:

  • Early fine lines and uneven texture
  • Want a minimal routine with proven actives
  • Looking to prevent and address signs of aging

Keep in mind:

  • Introduce one active at a time
  • Start low and slow if you have sensitive skin
  • Always use SPF when using retinoids

Daily Routine Skeleton

Morning (AM)

1
Cleanse Optional

Gentle cleanser or water rinse

daily

2
Antioxidant Optional

Vitamin C serum

daily

3
Moisturize

Hydrating moisturizer

daily

4
SPF

Broad spectrum SPF 30+

daily

Evening (PM)

1
Cleanse

Remove makeup and sunscreen

daily

2
Treat

Retinoid (start 2-3x/week)

2–3x/week → nightly

3
Moisturize

Nourishing night cream

daily

Tip: Start simple. You don't need every step right away. Master the basics (cleanse, moisturize, SPF) before adding treatment steps.

Top Actives for This Goal

These ingredients have the strongest evidence for this skin goal. You don't need all of them – pick 1-2 to start.

Retinol

Also called: retinol, vitamin A

Gold standard for fine lines, texture, and overall skin renewal.

fine linestextureuneven tone
Effective: 0.3–1%
Usage: Start 2–3x/week, build to nightly
Medium irritation

Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

Also called: ascorbic acid, l-ascorbic acid, vitamin C

Antioxidant protection and brightening; pairs well with SPF.

brightnessantioxidant protectionuneven tone
Effective: 10–20%
Usage: Daily in AM (best before sunscreen)
Low irritation

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Also called: niacinamide, nicotinamide, vitamin B3

Supports barrier function and works with most other actives.

pore appearancebarrier supportuneven toneoil control
Effective: 2–10%
Usage: Daily, AM or PM
Low irritation

Peptides

Also called: matrixyl, argireline, copper peptides, palmitoyl tripeptide

Supports collagen; good for those who can't tolerate retinoids.

fine linesfirmnesshydration
Usage: Daily, AM or PM
Low irritation

Reading Path

0/5 completed

Read these articles in order for a complete understanding. Mark them as read to track your progress.

Ready to Take Action?

Use our tools to build your personalized routine and find the right products.

Related Playbooks