What is skin longevity? A dermatologist explains the new skincare buzzword and its benefits

Placing focus on the long-term health and resilience of your complexion, longevity skincare has been gaining traction, but it's actually a not-so-new concept that dermatologists have been talking about for years.

We're already well-acquainted with terms like anti-ageing when it comes to the best face moisturisers and best hyaluronic acid serums, but in recent months we've seen a new expression floating around - skin longevity. In an era where biohacking and slow ageing is more popular than ever, it's no surprise that we're seeing buzzwords like 'longevity' enter the world of skincare.

As more products begin to hit the market adorning the 'L' word, it's only natural that we cut through the noise by quizzing a dermatologist to give us the rundown of exactly what 'skin longevity' means, what it aims to do and whether we should be incorporating these products into our own routines. So, without further ado, here's everything you need to know about longevity skincare, as per the experts...

Everything you need to know about skin longevity, as per a dermatologist

The likes of the best retinol creams and best red light therapy devices are hailed for their ability to improve firmness, minimise fine lines and smooth the skin after the fact. However, skin longevity is a proactive approach to maintaining the skin's long-term health and functionality, rather than trying to correct already visible signs of ageing.

What does ‘longevity’ mean in terms of skincare?

Ok, so what does longevity skincare actually mean? Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist & Founder of Self London, explains: "Longevity in skincare is essentially a modern buzzword for something dermatologists have been recommending for years - taking steps to protect your skin from long-term damage and slow down the breakdown of collagen and elastin."

With the likes of 'collagen banking' and 'preventative skincare' falling into the same category, Dr Mahto continues: "It’s about maintaining healthy, resilient skin for as long as possible rather than chasing quick fixes. Longevity skincare focuses on protecting the skin barrier, reducing oxidative stress and supporting the natural repair processes so your skin stays healthy and strong over time."

What do longevity skincare products aim to do?

So we now know the basic definition, but you might still be wondering exactly what do longevity skincare products do? Well, as Mahto explains: "These products aim to protect the skin against environmental damage, UV rays and free radicals, which are the main drivers of ageing. They also work to strengthen the skin barrier, maintain hydration and support collagen and elastin health." To put it simply, the dermatologist says: "Essentially, they’re designed to future-proof your skin, keeping it resilient, smooth and healthy."

What is the difference between longevity skincare and anti-ageing skincare?

With a big focus on longevity skincare, you might be pondering whether you should be ditching your anti-ageing formulas but as Dr Mahto advises: "There’s very little practical difference. Anti-ageing skincare traditionally focuses on slowing or reversing visible signs of ageing, while longevity skincare emphasises prevention and maintenance."

In fact, the dermatologist highlights there's actually a fair amount of overlap in terms of routines and ingredients: "In reality, both approaches overlap - they use antioxidants, sun protection, moisturisers and barrier-supporting ingredients to protect collagen and elastin."

"Longevity is just a modern way to frame preventative care, making it feel proactive rather than reactive. The core principles remain the same - protect, support and maintain healthy skin over time," Dr Mahto says.

At what age is it best to start using longevity skincare products?

With the focus of longevity skincare being on the preventative care of your complexion, Dr Anjali Mahto suggests: "You can start incorporating longevity skincare in your twenties, when the first subtle signs of photoaging and collagen breakdown begin. This isn’t about wrinkle prevention - it’s about giving your skin the tools to stay strong and resilient as you get older."

However, there's one skincare product the dermatologist says you should prioritise in your daily routine in order to protect the long-term health of your complexion: "Sunscreen is the most important step at any age as it's the number one thing you can do to protect your skin long-term."

How do you incorporate longevity skincare products into a routine?

For those wanting to incorporate longevity products into their skincare routine, Dr Mahto encourages to "focus on the fundamentals," with a gentle cleanser, one of the best facial sunscreens and "a moisturiser that supports the skin barrier."

Once you have the basics of your routine sorted, Mahto advises to: "Layer in antioxidants like vitamin C or niacinamide in the morning and hydrators like hyaluronic acid or ceramides - retinoids can be added later for extra support in maintaining collagen." Mahto continues: "The goal is consistency rather than complexity: regular, daily use of these ingredients protects the skin and keep it health/resilient over time."

For those wanting to invest in longevity skincare, we've collated an edit of products available on the market - from restoring serums to intensely hydrating moisturisers.

Advice from

Advice from

Dr Anjali Mahto

Dr Anjali Mahto is a medical and cosmetic consultant dermatologist who founded the Self London clinic. Dr Mahto is also the author of the bestselling book, The Skincare Bible.