You don’t read the same books or eat the same food as you did in your 20s, so why continue to use the same old skin care products? Preferences and concerns progress and your skin care routine should follow suit!
As you age, your skin experiences decreased production of collagen and elastin (responsible for firmness and elasticity), and decreased production of natural oils, resulting in dryer, less “plump” skin. Sun damage from unprotected beach days in your youth is also starting to show up as splotchiness and hyperpigmentation. And, while you probably aren’t seeing deep wrinkles and sagging, your skin care regimen should address current concerns as well as prevention of further damage.
How should women over 40 care for their skin? Read on for the five most important things you can do to look your best, no matter your number.
1. Exfoliate
Regular exfoliation is essential to maintaining a youthful, healthy glow. As we age, the epidermis thins and skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down, affecting the structure and function of the skin. Exfoliation helps to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, ultimately allowing nutrients and hydrators from your other treatments to more effectively penetrate the skin.
There are two types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliators, like MyChelle Fruit Enzyme Scrub, make you do the work, sloughing off dead skin cells with granular exfoliants that roll across the skin. Chemical exfoliators, like MyChelle Perfect C PRO Speed Peel, use enzymes and alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs) to loosen the glue-like substance that bind dead skin cells, allowing them to wash away.
There are a wide variety of both types of exfoliators, from over-the-counter scrubs and peels to in-office, professional treatments. You can also mix and match exfoliators to find the routine that work best for you! Word to the wise: Over-exfoliating can be harmful and your skin will be the first to tell you if you’ve gone too far. Exfoliating 2-3 times per week is recommended.
2. Introduce Serums into your Daily Routine
A good serum is like finding the perfect bra: Wearing the right inner layer can transform how you look on the outside. These highly concentrated, fast-penetrating liquids target specific skin concerns and are designed to saturate your skin with a potent dose of nutrients and bioactive ingredients.
Find a serum or combination of serums perfect for you by focusing on your top skin concerns. Looking to brighten and protect against environmental damage from UV-rays and pollution? Incorporate an antioxidant-rich vitamin C serum into your morning routine. Have you noticed an increased presence of discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles? Anti-aging retinoid serums with vitamin A used consistently in the evening can help correct texture and reduce the appearance of visible signs of aging. If your skin isn’t retaining moisture like it used to, a hyaluronic acid serum can help plump and rehydrate. Whatever your skin concerns, we can bet there’s a serum out there ready to save the day.
3. Moisturize
With the first two steps in your routine complete, your skin’s ready for a moisturizer. In this step especially, one size does not fit all, but there are general rules of thumb to follow when choosing this essential product.
At this age, you should ask more from your moisturizer than just to rehydrate dry skin—it should also protect against environmental damage and revitalize with essential vitamins and nutrients. Look for multitasking products with active ingredients. Day creams with clinically-proven peptides, moisturizers with active plant stem cells and repair creams with potent antioxidants that help improve everything from radiance and firmness to texture and tone.
4. Wear Sun Protection...Every Day!
Sunscreen is critical in preventing and protecting mature skin from further sun damage. SPF won’t undo damage that’s already occurred, but it will help prevent further signs of photo-aging like fine lines, dark spots, and discoloration. We recommend choosing a mineral-based SPF sunscreen formulated with active ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that can help protect your skin without the harmful ingredients commonly found in chemical sunscreens.
When applying your daily sun protection, don’t neglect your neck! Skin in this often-overlooked area is just as delicate as your face and tends to show age earlier.
5. Stay Consistent
It’s always tempting to try the latest trendy treatment or fad ingredient, but the best thing you can do for your skin once you hit 40 is to find a routine that works and stick with it! With the exception of in-office treatments, most skin care products take time to deliver visible results. Retinoids, for example, have a cumulative effect in the skin, showing greater results with consistent use. Stick with a routine for at least a month before evaluating.
Investing in a consistent, results-driven skin care routine is like making a deposit in your 401(k): The sooner you start, the longer you’ll enjoy healthy, radiant skin!
