Getting older is a fact of life. You can’t stop the forces of time, but you can keep your skin looking its best. If you’re over 40, it’s a good time to assess your skin care as you age. You might need to change up your routine to meet your skin’s shifting requirements.
Using the right skincare products for your skin will ensure that your complexion looks great at any age.
Your Skin at 40
Your skin at 40 is different than your skin was at 20. This is partly due to hormone changes as you enter perimenopause. Lower estrogen and progesterone levels can slow collagen production, making skin look looser and wrinkles may be more visible.1
Your skin may produce less sebum and become drier. If you have discoloration from sun damage or acne, it may be more noticeable.2
Essential Skin Care Products
Your skincare routine should be a combination of products that are gentle but effective.
Gentle cleansers: You should wash your skin twice a day, but don’t use a harsh cleanser. You can use gentle exfoliants like salicylic acid to clear oil from pores and clear away dead, dull skin. Don’t use hot water, as it can dry out your skin.
Vitamin C serums: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can fade dark spots and boost collagen production.3
Retinoids: Retinoids, an ingredient derived from Vitamin A, are a staple ingredient for anti-aging products. They’re stronger than the retinol that you find in many beauty products, and they have a more pronounced anti-wrinkle effect. You can ask your dermatologist for prescription-strength retinoids like tretinoin. Or you can try an over-the-counter product that contains adapalene.4
Moisturizers: Moisturizer is an absolute must for aging skin. You can try a moisturizer with ceramides to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and prevent moisture loss.5 Look for products with hyaluronic acid to draw moisture to your skin to make it more hydrated. You can also try using a facial oil to add more skin hydration, particularly for your evening skin routine.
Sun protection: Using a good, broad spectrum sunscreen can protect your skin from future damage.6 Skin cancer risk rises with age, so being vigilant about sun protection is a crucial skincare priority. Both chemical sunscreens such as oxybenzone or octinoxate and physical barrier sunscreen like titanium or zinc protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
If you have questions about which products are best for your skin, talk to your dermatologist for specific recommendations. You can also learn more about skincare at any age on MySkincareRoutine.
Sources:
- Northwestern Medicine: “Menopause and Your Skin. “
- American Academy of Dermatology Association: “Caring for Your Skin in Menopause. “
- Byrdie: “The Complete Guide to Skincare in Your 40s, Recommended by Dermatologists.”
- Byrdie: “Ceramides Are Exactly What Your Skin Barrier Needs—Here’s Why.”
- American Academy of Dermatology Association: “Skin Care In Your 40s And 50s.“
- American Academy of Dermatology Association: “Caring for Your Skin in Menopause. “