To state the obvious, as we age so does our complexion. From changing priorities (hello, fine lines and wrinkles) to ensuring we are using the right consistency of product, your skin is constantly changing, so the products and routine you rely on should be changing too.

So how do we know what is considered the ‘right’ type of product?  We spoke to expert, Jocelyn Petroni, owner of her eponymous Woollahra salon and facialist to the likes of Miranda Kerr and Megan Gale, to find out what cleansing formulas are the best for mature skin, as well as what they’re actually doing.

The main differences between ‘youthful’ and ‘mature’ skin is that “mature skin tends to be drier,” says Petroni. “The epidermis and dermal skin layers become thinner, elasticity decreases and cell turnover slows down with age.” As Petroni explains, this means the focus needs to be on providing your skin with hydration and the stimulation of skin regeneration.

Cleansing is the most crucial step as your skin ages, as the cell renewal process has slowed down. When you are young your skin sheds and regenerates but for mature skin, “the process slows down, so the skin doesn’t shed as easily and the barrier tends to build up.” If you’re wearing makeup everyday this is even more important. “Cleansing is vital to help stimulate the natural regeneration of healthy skin,” says Petroni.

“I recommend avoiding using foaming cleansers and any cleansers that are gel based,” says Petroni, “as they tend to remove natural oils within the skin and can dry [it] out even further.” She says instead opt for milk, cream or oil based cleansers to assist with hydrating skin while cleansing. Ingredients such as Shea Butter, Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E are super hydrating and “key to helping the skin stay soft and hydrated.” Lactic acid is another ingredient to look out for, explains Petroni. “[It] is a great dual-action cleansing ingredient as it dissolves dead skin build up, increasing cell turnover,” without stripping the skin of any moisture.

Her product of choice: “I love the Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrating Milk Cleanser as it is formulated to gently cleanse and nourish the skin, whilst removing daily residue and leaving the skin perfectly hydrated,” says Petroni.

A few more important tips Petroni notes; avoiding products with fragrance and alcohol, as they strip the natural oils from the skin. Also, to use lukewarm instead of hot water when washing your face. “Hot water is more dehydrating and [can] contribute to redness,” she says.

Here are a few more of our favourite cleansers for mature skin: