What does it mean to have AE skin?

Skin ageing : ABSENT

Oxidation factors: EXPOSED

Sebum production: BALANCED (.)

Find here information on the 24 skin profiles defined by Typology.

The letter “A” indicates that no visible sign of ageing is yet apparent on the skin. Three primary manifestations usually mark the onset of cutaneous ageing: wrinkles, the skin laxity — often associated with volume loss — and reduced density. These changes generally begin around the age of thirty, a period when the skin starts to show the first signs of a slowdown in its biological mechanisms.

Indeed, over time, cellular renewal occurs more slowly, lipid production declines, and collagen and elastin fibres become scarcer. At the same time, hyaluronic acid synthesis weakens and dermal fat cells decrease in number, reducing the structural support of the face. Although these changes are inevitable, their progression rate depends heavily on internal factors (genetic, hormonal) and external factors (sun exposure, smoking, oxidative stress, diet). By acting on these parameters, it is possible to delay the onset of the signs of ageing.

The letter “E” denotes a skin highly exposed to external aggressions, such as solar radiation, air pollution, tobacco, stress or even alcohol consumption. Added to this are often insufficient photoprotection habits, unsuitable for the phototype or to the exposure pattern. These various factors generate free radicals, unstable molecules naturally produced by oxygen-consuming cells, but which, in excess, become harmful to the skin.

When the production of free radicals exceeds the body’s natural defences — in particular those of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase or glutathione peroxidase —, a state of oxidative stress sets in. This imbalance causes the gradual deterioration of skin structures, both in the epidermis and in the dermis. Collagen and elastin fibres stiffen and fragment, hyaluronic acid degrades, membrane lipids oxidise and even cellular DNA can be damaged. In the most severe cases, chronic sun exposure can also promote precancerous lesions.

The “.” point indicates a balance in sebum production. The latter, secreted by the sebaceous glands, is a crucial lipid substance for the epidermis: it nourishes the skin, limits water loss and contributes to the formation of the hydrolipidic film, that fine protective barrier covering the skin’s surface. Comfortable and soft, AE(.) skin has a smooth texture, with neither shine nor dry areas. It is naturally well hydrated, protected, and the imperfections are rare. However, despite this good skin balance, this skin profile also requires care to maintain its health.

Even if sebum production is balanced, if the skin is not properly protected, particularly when exposed to sunlight, and continues to be exposed to extrinsic factors (pollution, stress, smoking...), the AE profile(.) is prone to developing premature ageing signs (wrinkles, pigmentation spots, skin laxity...).

Even if AE skin is balanced, it remains vulnerable over the long term. A skincare routine centred on antioxidant protection and maintaining hydration helps to prolong its resilience to external factors.

In the morning, it is recommended to apply an antioxidant serum, formulated for example with vitamin C, to protect the skin from free radicals produced by sun exposure and pollution. After that, you can use a lightweight moisturiser, which helps maintain the hydrolipidic film and prevent dehydration. Finally, a sunscreen tailored to your phototype is essential, even in urban areas or on overcast days, because UVA rays, present all year round, penetrate deeply into the dermis and contribute to the degradation of collagen and elastin.

In the evening, the skin should be thoroughly cleansed of make-up and then gently washed, so as to remove impurities and pollutant particles accumulated during the day. The application of an antioxidant serum at the end of the day helps to limit the persistence of free radicals formed during daytime exposure. This treatment can be complemented by a moisturising cream richer in texture, supporting the restoration of the skin barrier and the skin’s natural nocturnal regeneration processes.

"I was not accustomed to maintaining a dedicated skincare routine to look after my skin, but it has proven exceptionally effective. [...] Initially, given the array of products supplied, mastering the sequence can be challenging; however, the protocol is swiftly acquired and simple to apply. After ten days, I noted a significant reduction in periorbital dark circles and a marked improvement in overall skin tone." Raed M. – AE Typologist(.)