I woke up the other day and realized that in a few months I’ll be turning 40! That has stirred up A LOT of feelings and questions, some positive, some anxiety inducing. Everything from reflecting on the many accomplishments that I’m proud of to wondering if I’ve saved anywhere near enough money for retirement is heavy on my mind these days!

But one thing that hasn’t been stressing me too much – my beauty routine! I have been disciplined and consistent with a skin care regimen, and I have also shifted my hair care approach to focus on hydration and health, and less experimental with styling that can cause damage. I think its safe to say I can easily pass for 10 if not 12 years younger!

It is common for women to notice natural changes in their skin and body as they approach middle age (and yes 40s are middle aged, fight me on it). Loss of elasticity, fine lines, and dryness are common concerns, as well as hair loss and weight gain. However, with the right routine, you can maintain a youthful glow, age gracefully, and embrace your natural beauty.

Here's a guide to updating your skincare routine as you enter this new amazing decade:

Beauty Tips for Women in Their 40s!

Facial Cleansing Tips for Women in Their 40s

Here is my go-to facial routine when it comes to skin care!

Double Cleansing

Why: Double cleansing effectively removes makeup, dirt, and impurities, preventing clogged pores and breakouts.
How: Use an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and dirt, followed by a water-based cleanser to cleanse your skin.

Exfoliation

Why: Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin. However, be gentle as mature skin can be more sensitive.
How: Use a chemical exfoliant with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) once or twice a week.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm.png

Youth th the People Superfood Gentle Antioxidant Refillable Cleanser.png

Tatcha The Rice Wash Skin-Softening Cleanser.png

Paulas Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Clear Skin.png

Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant Exfoliator.png

biossance Squalane + Antioxidant Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil.png

Skincare Routine for Women in Their 40s

Once you’ve got a cleansing routine down, focus on the rest of your skin to treat any major issues, restore balance, and get you glowing!

Serums

Why: Serums are highly concentrated formulas that deliver potent ingredients directly to your skin.
What to look for: Antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E), hyaluronic acid, retinol, and peptides.

Moisturizer

Why: Hydration is essential for plump, youthful-looking skin.
What to look for: Look for a rich, hydrating moisturizer that contains ceramides and fatty acids to help strengthen the skin barrier.

Sunscreen

Why: Sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays and preventing premature aging.
How: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.

Eye Cream

Why: The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate, making it prone to fine lines and wrinkles.
What to look for: Look for an eye cream containing peptides, caffeine, or retinol to help

Retinol

Why: Retinol is a powerful anti-aging ingredient that can help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
How: Start with a low concentration of retinol and gradually increase it as your skin tolerates it. Prescription ones are the most effective, don’t waste your time or money on the stuff you’ll get at retail.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum.png

Supergoop Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50.png

Drunk Elephant Protini™ Polypeptide Firming Refillable Moisturizer.png

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Intensive Moisturizer with Peptides + Squalane.png

And don’t forget your neck and hands! Those are some of the places that signs of aging can creep up and get worse quickly. Use the same products on your neck as you do on your face, and add a hand mask to your weekly routine, and cuticle oil nightly. That will help your skin retain moisture, and the little gloves force you to keep your hands of your phone for a bit!

Lifestyle Changes for Women in their 40s

Skin care can only do so much! At our age it’s time to take a close look at your diet and step up the attention and care you give to your overall fitness and health

Here are some other changes you’ll need to make to your lifestyle if you’re a woman in or close to your 40s!

Diet and Lifestyle

Why: Your diet and lifestyle can significantly impact your overall health.
What to do: Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants. Stay hydrated, manage stress, and get enough sleep.

Stay on top of your medical appointments

Why: Keep your over health in check and be aware to catch and treat any issues. Make your regularly scheduled appointments and pay attention to any changes in your body that you think are worth raising with your physician. You know your body and your instincts may not lead you wrong. If you feel unheard by your medical team, get a second opinion or seek out a female care team that may be more receptive to complaints based on women’s intuition.

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare. By following these tips and incorporating the right products into your routine, you can maintain healthy, radiant skin well into your 40s and beyond.