Addressing skin changes is more straightforward when started early, so start early in your 20s and 30s with sunscreen, hydration, and retinoids. In your 40s and beyond, regenerative treatments like RF microneedling, HIFU, and NAD+ therapy may help address skin changes. Acting early may support better outcomes.

How soon is too soon? Or worse — how late is too late?

When it comes to anti-ageing, timing makes all the difference. Starting too early might mean treating problems that don’t exist yet.

The body’s natural ageing process offers clear signs.

Skin renewal slows in the 20s. Collagen production drops in the 30s. Sun damage and lifestyle choices catch up over time.

Understanding these changes is the first step to making smart decisions.

This guide covers four treatments and when to consider each.

When to start anti-ageing treatments

Genes play a role in how skin ages, but they’re only part of the equation.

Lifestyle choices, skincare habits, and environmental factors have a bigger impact. Knowing when to take action is what truly makes a difference.

Preventative care works best in your 20s and 30s, while restorative treatments are relevant in your 40s and beyond.

Skin changes don’t happen all at once — it follows clear patterns by decade:

• During your 20s
  Skin is firm, smooth, and full of collagen. Skin changes don’t, prevention should start around this time. Using sunscreen every day is a defence against UV damage, which builds over time. A simple routine with hydration and gentle cleansing works best.
• During your 30s
  Fine lines and dullness start to become more noticeable. Collagen production slows, and skin may feel less elastic. Retinoids, antioxidants, and vitamin C can address these early changes.
• During your 40s
  Wrinkles deepen, and skin loses elasticity. Hormonal changes may also cause dryness or uneven tone. Collagen-stimulating treatments, like RF microneedling or skin peels, may help address firmness and texture.
• During your 50s
  Skin becomes thinner, drier, and more prone to laxity. Hyperpigmentation and volume loss are common. Advanced treatments such as HIFU, lasers, and hydration-focused treatments can target these changes and support ageing skin.

Consistent care early on can help to prevent or delay visible changes. Even later in life, targeted treatments can address existing concerns and support skin health.

4 anti-ageing treatments and when to start them

#1 — NAD+ therapy for cellular repair

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme critical for energy production and DNA repair in every cell of the body. However, NAD+ levels decline with age, especially after the late 30s.

Studies have shown that boosting NAD+ levels may slow cellular ageing, improve mitochondrial function, and support the body’s repair mechanisms.

This therapy is available in different forms, like oral supplements and drips.

The best time to start NAD+ therapy and its benefits

NAD+ therapy is most effective when started in the late 30s or early 40s, as this is when NAD+ levels naturally decline. Reasons to seek this procedure include a desire for increased energy, improved focus, skin texture changes, and overall vitality.

may help those looking to support cellular function.

#2 — Retinoids for skin renewal and collagen production

Retinoids, vitamin A derivatives, are considered the gold standard for anti-ageing. They aim to stimulate cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and reduce fine lines and pigmentation.

Over-the-counter retinol is milder, while prescription Vitamin A options offer stronger effects.

While retinoids can be useful, they can sometimes cause irritation, dryness, and peeling.

Beginners should start with low concentrations and apply them 2-3 times a week, gradually increasing frequency as the skin adjusts. Also, always use sunscreen during the day to prevent sun sensitivity caused by retinoid use.

When to start retinoids and what to expect

Late 20s to early 30s is the best time to start retinoids to address early changes. In older age groups, retinoids remain relevant for addressing fine lines, uneven tone, and dullness.

With consistent use, you may begin to notice changes in skin texture.

#3 — RF Microneedling to stimulate collagen naturally

Morpheus8 RF Microneedling involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, combined with radiofrequency (RF) energy to stimulate the skin. This process triggers the body’s natural healing response, producing collagen and elastin.

The treatment may help address fine lines, acne scars, and skin texture.

Each session usually takes 30-60 minutes, with mild redness lasting 1-2 days.

Treatments are spaced 4-6 weeks apart, and multiple sessions are typically recommended.

Who can benefit from RF microneedling and when you can start

RF Microneedling can be used in the late 20s or early 30s to to encourage the maintenance of collagen.

For those in their 40s and beyond, it may be appropriate for addressing deeper wrinkles and texture issues.

#4 — Ultraformer for non-invasive skin tightening

Ultraformer is a non-invasive anti-ageing treatment that aims to address skin firmness using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). It works by stimulating collagen production deep within the skin, targeting elasticity and firmness over time. Ultraformer enhances your skin’s natural structure less downtime than other methods.

The best time to start Ultraformer and its benefits

Ultraformer may suit those in their 30s and beyond who are noticing early signs of laxity or loss of firmness. It’s is often appropriate to start before skin laxity becomes severe, as collagen production slows with age.

Results develop gradually over two to three months as collagen rebuilds, with effects lasting up to a year. Regular maintenance treatments may be useful for some patients.

Age isn’t the enemy — but waiting too long might be

Skin changes are natural. Addressing these changes isn’t about reversing time but enhancing what you already have.

Taking care of your skin and body early doesn’t mean fearing natural processes — it means respecting them.

Making proactive, informed decisions helps make sure you’re in control of how confident you feel. Whether it’s protecting your skin in your 20s or addressing concerns in your 40s, the appropriate treatments can support your goals at any stage.

The best way to find the appropriate treatment for you? Consult with a cosmetic physician. Dr. Scott Allison can help you decide on a treatment plan based on your facial anatomy, skin type, and desired outcome.