2026: skin care that respects the skin while targeting skin aging

Introduction

For a long time, the fight against the signs of aging was based on a logic of intensity. Ever more powerful active ingredients, applied continuously, were supposed to produce visible results more quickly. However, this approach has shown its limitations, particularly in terms of skin tolerance and the durability of results.

In 2026, scientific analysis of skin ageing is more nuanced. Data converge on the same conclusion: the skin's ability to age harmoniously depends above all on its functional integrity. Weakened skin, even when exposed to recognized active ingredients, shows wrinkles, discomfort and textural irregularities more quickly.

Skin aging: understanding loss of function before loss of aesthetics

Cutaneous aging is a progressive phenomenon that first affects the skin's biology. Over time, the speed of cell renewal decreases, collagen synthesis slows and the organization of the cutaneous barrier becomes unbalanced. These changes lead to increased transepidermal water loss and heightened sensitivity to environmental aggressors.

The crucial point is often invisible. When the skin barrier is altered, low-grade inflammation can set in chronically. This silent inflammation contributes to the degradation of support fibers and accentuates the appearance of visible signs of aging. In other words, stabilizing the skin is often the most rational strategy for achieving "lasting radiance".

Preserving the cutaneous barrier: a major lever for skin longevity

The cutaneous barrier is not simply a "protective film". It's a complex biological structure that regulates hydration, limits the penetration of irritating substances and participates in antioxidant defense. When intact, the skin retains its suppleness, comfort and homogeneity for longer.

In a PERS logic, the REPAIR phase takes on its full meaning here. Repairing textures such as the Rich Cream or the Light Cream can be integrated as support care products: their aim is to encourage a stable skin environment, conducive to regeneration, while improving tolerance.

Cleansing without altering: a scientific step, not a detail

Cleansing is one of the most important factors in skin health. Over-aggressive cleansing can disorganize the lipids in the stratum corneum, weakening the skin barrier from the very first minutes of the routine. Over time, this repetition can amplify low-grade inflammation and reactivity.

The modern approach is to effectively remove impurities and lipophilic residues without triggering skin stress. In practice, this means favoring formulas that remove make-up, oxidized sebum and sunscreens, then finalize gentle cleansing with good tolerance.

In a PERS routine, this logic is clearly expressed with Radiance Cleansing Balm as the first step, then Soothing Cleansing Gel as the second. The aim is not to "strip", but to purify to preserve skin integrity.

Repairing at night: supporting natural biological mechanisms

The night is a privileged repair phase. The processes of cell regeneration and restoration of the lipid barrier are more active. The skincare products applied at this time play an accompanying role: they reduce water loss, limit sensations of discomfort and promote a stable context, more compatible with skin that "works well".

This is where alternation becomes an intelligent strategy. On "repair" evenings, an enveloping texture like the Rich Cream or, if you prefer a lighter feel, the Light Cream, helps maintain comfort and routine consistency, often improving adherence over several weeks.

Eye contour: preserving a biologically vulnerable area

The eye contour is structurally different from the rest of the face. The skin is thinner and less rich in sebaceous glands. This area is therefore more sensitive to dehydration and circulatory variations, which explains the earlier appearance of signs of fatigue.

A respectful approach is to support this zone without over-stimulating it. The PERS Eye Cream is part of this approach: continuous hydration, comfort and support for the appearance of the eyes, with high tolerance.

Stimulate with discernment: alternation as a principle of tolerance

Active ingredients that stimulate cell renewal remain relevant in a modern anti-aging strategy, provided they are integrated methodically. The challenge is not to multiply the number of stimuli, but to avoid the chronic inflammation that ends up blurring radiance and weakening the skin barrier.

Pro-Retinol Serum 0.3% PERS is designed to be used in the evening, typically every other night, to respect tolerance. This alternation between "stimulating" and "repairing" often leads to more regular results, because the skin remains stable.

Things to remember

In 2026, the most coherent anti-aging strategy is one that respects skin physiology. Preserving the barrier, limiting silent inflammation and supporting natural regeneration help slow the appearance of visible signs of ageing, while sustainably improving skin comfort and quality. Ageing better starts with respect for the skin, day after day.

Scientific sources

• Elias PM. Skin barrier function. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 2008. PubMed
• Proksch E, Brandner JM, Jensen JM. The skin: an indispensable barrier. Experimental Dermatology, 2008. PubMed
• Flament F et al. Effect of age on facial skin barrier function. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013. PubMed
• Draelos ZD. Active agents in common skin care products. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2010. PubMed
• Pillai S, Oresajo C, Hayward J. Ultraviolet radiation and skin aging. Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings, 2005. PubMed