As we age, our skin’s daily requirements change. You want to focus more on hydration, targeting those fine lines under your eyes and taking preventative measures to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
Skincare in your 40s can be as simple or as complicated as you want. Incorporating hydrating serums and moisturisers, retinol and vitamin C into your everyday routine can make your skin looking fresh and youthful.
Also make eating a balanced meal, staying hydrated and focusing on getting enough sleep a priority at this age.
Here’s a complete guide to taking care of your skin in your 40s
- Prioritise hydration
As you age, your skin tends to lose moisture more easily, leading to dryness, dullness, and fine lines. Use a gentle and hydrating cleanser.
The American Academy of Dermatology lists out the benefits of using hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, helping your skin stay plump. Apply it before your moisturiser.
Look for moisturisers with ceramides, glycerine, and peptides to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier.
Don’t forget to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your skin and body hydrated.
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- Incorporate retinol into your routine
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, can boost collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as highlighted by the Harvard Medical School.
However, Retinol can be too powerful for sensitive skin. Start slowly, applying only once or twice a week, and sandwich it between moisturiser to help soothe and hydrate. Retinol can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so apply it at night and always use sunscreen during the day.
- Exfoliate regularly but gently
As you age, skin cell turnover slows down, which can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells and a dull complexion. Regular exfoliation helps remove these cells and encourages fresh, healthy skin. Chemical exfoliants that have alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are gentler on skin than harsh scrubs, according to Healthline.com. Exfoliate 1-2 times a week. Overdoing it can cause irritation.
- Protect your skin from sun damage
Sun exposure can lead to premature aging. Never skip on sunscreen, even on cloudy days or if you’re indoors. If you're spending time outdoors, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours. Also consider protecting your skin with large-brimmed hats, sunglasses and long-sleeved clothing if the sun is particularly harsh.
Vitamin C can boost your sunscreen’s effectiveness, as recommended by the National Institutes of Health, so consider adding it to your morning routine.
- Address hyperpigmentation and dark spots
Dark spots, hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone are common at this age due to hormonal changes. Using a Vitamin C serum can brighten your skin, reduce dark spots, and promote collagen production. Niacinamide is another gentle ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and improves skin texture.
Exfoliating your skin with AHAs can also help fade those dark spots, as found by Dermatology Research and Practice.
- Focus on the eyes
The skin around your eyes is usually the first to show signs of ageing like crow’s feet, puffiness, and dark circles. Use an eye cream with peptides that will boost collagen production and reduce those under-eye fine lines. Eye creams with caffeine can also help reduce puffiness, while vitamin C brightens dark circles.
Some eye creams contain low-concentration retinol that can also help reduce fine lines. Always follow with sunscreen during the day, as recommended by Harvard Health Publishing.
When applying eye cream, be gentle, using your ring finger to avoid tugging.
Also read | Skincare tips: Don’t neglect sunscreen, use harsh products or over-exfoliate to keep your skin healthy
- Prioritise overall skin health with a healthy lifestyle
What you eat shows up on your face. So be sure to incorporate healthy lifestyle habits including eating a balanced meal of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, stay hydrated, prioritise 7-9 hours of sleep per night and be sure to manage stress through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
Taking care of your skin in your 40s involves tailoring skincare that is appropriate for your age. Using these skincare tips will help you build a routine that meets your skin's evolving needs, so you can confidently enjoy every moment in your 40s and beyond.
Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.
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