Top 5 Signs of Ageing in Your 30s, According to Dermatologist

As people enter their 30s, their skin begins to show subtle but meaningful shifts. We spoke with Dr Kiran Sethi Lohia, Managing Director and Integrative Aesthetic and Skin Physician at Isya Aesthetics in New Delhi, to uncover the top signs of ageing and practical ways to address them.

Signs of Ageing in Your 30s

Here are five signs your skin may be changing, and what you can do about it, according to a dermatologist.

Fine Lines Around Eyes & Mouth

As collagen and elastin production dip, fine lines, especially around the eyes (crow’s feet) and mouth, become more visible. Dr Lohia explains that these are often early alerts that skin repair is slowing down 

“Sun spots in your late 20s or early 30s should be a wake‑up call…” Dr Lohia says, stressing the importance of broad‑spectrum SPF 50+ and a morning antioxidant like vitamin C to protect and brighten skin 

Use daily SPF, add gentle retinol or peptides at night, and consider microneedling or IPL if needed.

Uneven Tone & Sunspots

Years of sun exposure take their toll in the form of brown spots, freckles, or patchy skin tone. Dr Lohia observes that pigmentation becomes more noticeable in the 30s and is driven largely by UV and lifestyle factors .

Keep consistent with SPF and antioxidant serums in the morning, and explore chemical peels or IPL sessions to even skin tone.

Dry, Dull & Rough Texture

In your 30s, skin cell renewal slows, and oil production drops, leading to dryness, flakiness, and dullness. Dr Lohia notes that pollution, stress, poor diet, and even screen exposure are quickening this process. Incorporate hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and gentle exfoliants (AHA/BHA). Moisturise thoroughly and keep water intake high.

Under-Eye Darkness & Puffiness

Delicate under-eye skin becomes thinner as collagen wanes, making blood vessels more visible and puffiness more noticeable. Dr Lohia points out that many in their 30s begin seeing these signs for the first time .

Choose eye creams with vitamin C or caffeine, always apply SPF, and consider light laser or radiofrequency treatments for lift.

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Loss of Elasticity & Enlarged Pores

Reduced collagen and slower skin turnover mean pores slacken and elasticity is lost. Dr Lohia confirms that clients in their mid‑30s often seek ways to firm their skin preemptively .

Maintain daily retinoid use, and regular exfoliation, and explore professional treatments like radiofrequency skin tightening or laser resurfacing.

Skincare Tips for Your 30s

• Sun protection every day: The single most important step.
• Morning antioxidants: Vitamin C protects and brightens.
• Nightly retinoid/peptides: Boost collagen and cell turnover.
• Hydration is key: Hyaluronic acid and rich moisturisers help keep skin supple.
• Professional support: Consider microneedling, IPL, peels, or RF treatments when needed.

Your 30s mark a pivotal shift: early fine lines, uneven tone, dryness, under-eye shadows, and elasticity loss. But with smart daily habits, targeted activities, and occasional in-clinic treatments, these changes can be managed gracefully.

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Image Courtesy: Freepik