The 3 Waves of Ageing: What Science Really Says About Your Skin Over Time
For decades, the skincare world has fed us the myth that ageing is slow and steady… a gradual decline starting somewhere around your 30s. But science is calling BS. According to research from Stanford and published in Nature Medicine and Nature Aging, our bodies don’t age in a smooth curve. They age in waves.
Each of these waves triggers dramatic changes inside the body - impacting not just how we look, but how we function at a cellular level. And yes, your skin feels it. DEEPLY.
So, what actually happens during these ageing bursts? And how can we respond with clarity rather than fear? Let’s dive in.
The 3 Molecular Waves of Ageing
1. The Subtle Shift (~Age 34)
What the research says:
In the 2019 Nature Medicine study led by Lehallier et al., blood proteomics from over 4,000 people revealed the first major molecular “burst” of ageing happens in the early to mid-30s. Around age 34, a noticeable change in plasma proteins related to metabolism, hormone regulation and tissue repair is observed.
Skin impact:
Collagen is declining (by about 1% per year)
Hormonal fluctuations may begin shifting oil production
Recovery from inflammation (like breakouts, sun exposure or treatments) slows down
Skin starts to lose its “bounce” even if no wrinkles are yet visible
Key focus areas:
Support healthy collagen production (vitamin C, amino acids, UV protection)
Begin consistent use of antioxidants and sun protection
Replenish hydration and barrier lipids as natural oil levels begin to shift
2. The Deep Cellular Disruption (~Age 44–45)
What the research says:
In 2024, Shen et al. published new findings in Nature Aging based on multi-omics data gathered over years. Around age 44, there’s a sharp reorganisation of metabolic, immune and skin-related functions. Think of it as your body’s internal control panel being reprogrammed mid-flight.
Skin impact:
Skin may become more sensitive or reactive
Barrier function weakens, increasing dehydration and inflammation
Muscle tone and volume in the face can decline more noticeably
Elastic fibres begin to degrade more rapidly
Free radical damage accumulates, leading to dullness and uneven tone
Key focus areas:
Strengthen the skin’s barrier and microbiome
Incorporate peptides and barrier-repair lipids
Use ingredients that reduce oxidative stress
Adapt routines to support cellular renewal and inflammation regulation
3. The Regenerative Slow-Down (~Age 60)
What the research says:
Both studies point to a major second or third wave of ageing peaking around age 60. This is when age-related dysfunction in multiple systems… immune, cardiovascular, renal, metabolic - INTENSIFIES. From a skin perspective, this is where intrinsic (natural) ageing becomes far more visible.
Skin impact:
Thinning of the dermis and reduced capillary density
Slower wound healing and reduced regeneration
Loss of structural support due to collagen and elastin degradation
Pronounced dryness, sagging and pigmentation changes
Increased glycation, leading to stiffened collagen
Key focus areas:
Gentle but consistent stimulation of skin turnover (enzymes, AHA/BHAs or retinoids if tolerated)
Peptides to promote firmness and hydration
Lipid-rich moisturisers to counteract loss of natural oils
Targeted antioxidants to combat glycation (vitamin C, flavonoids)
Key Takeaways from the Research
Age Key Molecular Shift Skin Implication
~34 Subtle metabolic & hormonal changes First signs of collagen loss & slower recovery
~44 Major disruption across metabolism, skin health, detox, immunity Visible changes in firmness, sensitivity and healing
~60 System-wide ageing processes intensify Significant dryness, sagging and structural decline
Sources:
Final Reflection
This isn’t about “anti-ageing.” It’s about understanding the biological seasons your body moves through - and aligning your rituals to support yourself with compassion and precision.
When we realise ageing is dynamic and biochemical, not just visual or linear, we get to stop chasing youth and start tuning into health, vitality, and resilience.
Knowledge is power. And this kind of power? It glows.