It’s never too late to start an effective skincare routine, but the earlier you start the better you can avoid signs of aging. Whether you’re already into your 40s or trying to plan ahead, incorporating good skincare habits and routines is crucial to a firm, bright, and healthy complexion.

Important Skin Care Ingredients, Products, and Habits to Adopt Before 40

1. Vitamin C

You’ve probably heard about incorporating antioxidants and vitamins into your diet, but did you know that they’re important for your skin, too? Dermatologists agree that Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant anti-aging ingredient that should be added to your routine ASAP. Vitamin C products, like a serum, can help prevent dark spots and supports collagen production to keep your skin firm and elastic.

2. Exfoliation

Jumpstart your cellular turnover by incorporating exfoliation into your routine. There are two different kinds of exfoliation: physical and chemical. We recommend limiting physical exfoliation, such as a scrub, to once a week. However, using a gentle chemical exfoliant, such as glycolic acid, can be used daily to keep skin bright and youthful.

3. Use of Sunscreen

We all want to keep our skin looking young and luminous while protecting it from damage. Sunscreen is important at any age, and if you haven’t started incorporating it into your daily routine yet, it’s better late than never. Reapply sunscreen to your face and any other exposed skin throughout the day to keep it protected and looking youthful.

4. Moisturizing Emollients

It’s normal for your skin to get drier and duller as you age, which means that in your 40s it’s helpful to protect your skin’s moisture barrier. Make sure that you’re using products that have highly moisturizing ingredients, like sodium hyaluronate, which many dermatologists recommend. Don’t miss a chance to add moisture to your skin, even if you have oily or combination skin.

5. Skin Check

At any age, it’s important to have a routine checkup with your dermatologist to screen for skin cancer. This only gets more important as you enter your 40s when you should make sure you’re seeing your dermatologist at least once a year. Between your appointments, keep an eye on any spots or moles for irregularities, and call your doctor if you have any concerns.

The Best Skin Care Routine for Your 40s

All skincare routines have some differences because everyone’s needs are unique. Aside from some small tweaks to customize your routine, most forty-somethings can benefit from the following routine as a place to start.

Morning Cleanser

Your goal when washing your face in the morning should be removing dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This is what helps keep your complexion soft and your skin hydrated. Use a gentle formula, like a milk or cream cleanser, in the morning to gently remove the debris that builds up overnight.

Radiance Boosting

As we get older into our 40’s, our skin produces sebum (or oils) in smaller quantities. This exposes us to pollution in the environment, intoxicating, and damaging the skin. To protect skin cells, add an antioxidant serum to your routine to help fight the free radicals.

Hydrating

In your 40s, your skin will start to produce less hyaluronic acid, a molecule that binds to water in the skin, creating a youthful and firm complexion with fewer fine lines. Adding hyaluronic acid to the skin using a serum can help your skin stay hydrated throughout the day.

Sun Protection Factor

One of the biggest contributors to signs of aging is sun damage from UV rays. To avoid age spots and discoloration and protect yourself from skin cancer, don’t forget daily SPF, even on cloudy days.

 

Not sure what products are best for your skin? Give us a call, and take a look at the top-notch skincare lines we carry.

 

Schedule an Appointment

If you want a little guidance on your skincare routine or you’re interested in trying some anti-aging treatments like injectables, schedule an appointment with Gilpin Facial Plastics & Aesthetics in Nashville, TN. You can set up your appointment by calling (615) 551-9823 or sending us a message online.

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