Dr. Marianne Waldmann-Laue, anti-aging expert and Director of Skin Care Development for Diadermine and AOK at Henkel, answers questions about DNA.

Dr. Waldmann-Laue, how does skin change between the ages of thirty and sixty?

The first wrinkles begin to appear at around thirty.  Skin from this point on loses one percent of collagen each year.  This is due to the skin’s own enzymes as well as a reduction in collagen synthesis.

Can one slow the signs of aging?

One cannot influence the genetic component, but one can do something about the loss of collagen and hyaluronic acid.  Even when you are younger, it is important to provide skin with a lot of moisture and never go in the sun without UV protection.

What are the top skin care ingredients for one’s thirties, forties, fifties and sixties?

Beginning in one’s thirties, peptides can send information to the skin to create collagen.  In one’s forties, the repair mechanisms of the skin must be stimulated more strongly with enzymes such as algae.  After sixty, one should work with rich phytosterols and minerals like calcium and magnesium to improve skin thickness.

Are skin creams sufficient?

Night creams should not only be dabbed onto skin, but always massaged in for two to three minutes.  This stimulates circulation and activates the cells.

Do special skin treatments really help?

Yes.  Each ampoule of an intensive treatment contains highly concentrated ingredients, and mask treatments pamper the skin with a buffer of moisture.

Do you have your own personal anti-aging tip?

I always make time in the evening for myself and for my skin care regime.  Night time is when skin regenerates itself most intensely.