Ah, your fabulous 40s! You're in the prime of your life but this decade also brings unique skin care challenges.

The routine that worked in your 30s will probably not work for you now.

In this blog, we reveal the most effective skincare routine in your 40s, focusing on how to best nurture and care for your skin during these transformative years.

What happens to your skin in your 40s?

You've probably started noticing changes in your skin (that's why you're here, right?) - the most notable being fine lines, crow's feet and skin that doesn't feel as plump as it used to.

This is because your body is producing less collagen (which provides strength, support and structure) and elastin (which gives your skin "stretchiness").

Additionally, your skin's natural oil (sebum) production is diminishing, leading to drier skin and you may also see increased hyperpigmentation, age spots, and uneven skin tone due to sun exposure. (All those sunny holidays in your 20s are returning to bite you!)

Moreover, hormonal fluctuations can impact skin thickness and resilience, making it more prone to bruising and conditions like rosacea or adult acne.

That's the not-so-welcome news. The good news is that by understanding these changes, you can adapt your routine to meet your skin's needs in your 40s.

Why is consistency in skin care important?

Before diving into the specifics of skincare routines, let's take a moment to understand the importance of consistency.

Skincare in your 40s isn't just about choosing the right products; it's about following a daily routine, morning and night.

A regular skincare routine ensures continuous nourishment and protection as your skin undergoes various changes due to aging and environmental factors.

This consistent approach helps to maintain skin health, prevent further damage, and gradually improve skin concerns like dryness, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

Remember, skincare results are cumulative, so patience and perseverance are essential for long-term improvements in your skin's appearance and health.

What is the best morning skin routine for a 40 year old woman?

In your 40s, your morning routine should focus on protection, hydration, and prepping your skin for the day ahead.

Step 1: Cleanse

Begin with a gentle face cleanser to remove overnight build-up.

Look for ingredients like Calendula Extract - a natural antiseptic that gently removes dirt and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils - and Rose Flower Water - a natural antioxidant-infused with vitamins A, C, E, and B that revitalises and brightens your skin, leaving it refreshed, radiant and vibrant.

Step 2: Hydrate & Protect

Apply your facial serum.

Face serums are designed to deliver high concentrations of specific active ingredients to your skin, targeting concerns like wrinkles, dark spots and sagging skin.

There are a plethora of serums available and the one you choose depends on the specific problem you're looking to solve.

As a good rule of thumb, look for ingredients like Ginkgo Leaf Extract (supports skin elasticity and firmness) and Green Tea extract (its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits contribute to a clearer, more refined skin complexion.)

Step 4: Moisturise

Moisturisers play a crucial role in skincare by hydrating and sealing moisture into your skin, preventing dryness and maintaining its natural barrier.

When selecting a moisturiser for mature skin, look for Argan Oil.

Despite being an oil, Argan Oil helps regulate sebum production, providing essential nourishment without clogging pores.

This makes it particularly suitable for skin still prone to oiliness, ensuring it remains balanced and nourished without feeling heavy or greasy.

Hyaluronic Acid is another indispensable ingredient for mature skin and is known for its exceptional hydrating properties.

It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, delivering deep hydration to your skin.

This is especially beneficial for mature skin, as it helps to plump up the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a more youthful and radiant look without adding any heaviness or greasiness.

Step 5: Sun Protection

Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

We recommend a mineral-based sunscreen containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.

They might not sound great but these ingredients work by sitting on top of your skin and physically blocking and reflecting UV rays away from your skin rather than absorbing them.

What should your evening skincare routine be?

Your evening routine should focus on skin repair, hydration, and rejuvenation.

Step 1: Cleanse

Start by thoroughly removing makeup and daily pollutants using a gentle, effective cleanser that doesn't strip your skin of natural oils.

If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, consider a double-cleansing method, starting with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one.

Step 2: Exfoliate (2-3 times a week)

During the night, your skin's natural repair processes are most active. Applying an exfoliant in the evening takes advantage of this state, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate more deeply and work effectively as your skin is more receptive to treatment.

Gently exfoliate your skin 2-3 times weekly to remove dead skin cells and enhance skin renewal.

Look for a product that contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) - water-soluble acids derived from sugary fruits.

They help peel away the surface of your skin so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells may generate and take their place.

AHAs also help promote collagen production, lighten dark spots, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the deeper layers of your skin.

Step 4: Apply Eye Cream

Applying an anti-aging eye cream in the evening is a strategic step in addressing concerns like dark circles, puffiness, and crow's feet.

The rationale for nighttime application and not morning lies in your skin's natural regenerative processes that occur while you sleep.

During this period, your skin undergoes repair and renewal more actively than during the day, making it an optimal time to use targeted treatments.

Step 5: Moisturize

Finish your routine with a rich, nourishing moisturiser. A high-quality moisturiser acts as a barrier, locking in the active ingredients from previous steps of your routine, such as serums or treatments, and preventing transepidermal water loss.

This ensures that your skin remains hydrated and the natural repair processes during sleep are supported, not hindered.

Key Takeaway

The journey through your 40s is a time of transformation for your skin, but with the proper care, it can continue to look healthy and radiant.

The best skincare routine in your 40s focuses on hydration, nourishment, and targeted treatments. Remember, consistency is crucial.

Regularly using a well-formulated skincare routine can significantly improve your skin's appearance and health.