Turning 40 is a great milestone, and also a time to reassess your skincare routine. As estrogen levels begin to shift and collagen production naturally declines, you may notice changes in your skin’s texture, elasticity, and glow. However, a targeted skincare routine can make a significant difference in how healthy your skin looks.
Why Does Your Skin Change in Your 40s?
As you enter your 40s, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate, and eventually decline during perimenopause. Estrogen is crucial for collagen production⎯the protein responsible for your skin's elasticity and firmness. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, collagen production drops 30% in the first 5 years of menopause and approximately 2% each year for about the next 20 years.
As we age, cell turnover slows down, so dead skin cells stay longer on the surface which can cause dryness you might not have had before. Your skin barrier can become more delicate, and if you don't protect your skin from sun exposure, issues like dark spots, wrinkles and fine lines can become more noticeable.
What is the Best Skincare Routine if You’re Over 40?
Building an effective skincare routine after 40 is not about fighting against time, but about keeping your skin healthy, resilient, and glowing.
Morning Skincare Routine
Your morning skincare routine is about protecting your skin from the environmental stressors it will face throughout the day.
1. Gentle Cleanser
Start by washing your face with a gentle, hydrating cleanser. As we age, our skin produces less oil, which can lead to dryness and a compromised skin barrier, and harsh cleansers can make this worse. Look for a face wash that cleanses without stripping away your skin’s natural moisture. Ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid help to support the skin's barrier and leave it feeling soft and plump. Shop recommended cleansers.
2. Antioxidant Serum
An antioxidant serum is an important part of your skincare routine if you’re over 40. Antioxidants help fight off free radicals that can damage your cells and speed up aging caused by environmental stressors and sun exposure. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant because it not only protects the skin, but also helps to brighten your complexion, fade dark spots, and support collagen production. Shop recommended antioxidant serums.
3. Hydrating Moisturizer
After using the antioxidant serum, apply a hydrating moisturizer to lock in hydration and support your skin’s barrier. Your daytime moisturizer should hydrate without feeling heavy. Shop recommended moisturizers.
4. Apply Sunscreen
If you do only one thing for your skin, let it be applying sunscreen every single day. Sun exposure is one of the main causes of wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and don’t forget to apply it to your neck and chest. Shop our recommended sunscreens.
Nighttime Skincare Routine
Your nighttime skincare routine is the perfect time to use active ingredients that target specific concerns and support the skin as it repairs itself while you sleep.
1. Double Cleanse
In the evening it’s important to remove all makeup, sunscreen, and grime from the day. A double cleanse is the most effective way to do this without irritating your skin. Start with an oil based cleanser and massage onto dry skin to remove makeup, sunscreen, and dirt. Follow this up with the gentle cleanser you use in the morning. Shop Epicutis Oil Cleanser and PCA Skin Daily Cleansing Oil.
2. Exfoliation
As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation slows, leaving dead cells on the skin which causes dull looking skin, clogged pores, and uneven texture. Gentle exfoliation helps boost cell turnover for smoother and more.
3. Anti-Aging Treatments
After cleansing and exfoliating, apply a product that will help repair and renew the skin. Retinoids are one of the most effective ingredients for anti-aging because they boost collagen production and help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
4. Eye Cream
The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face which is why it’s one of the first areas to show signs of aging. Use an eye cream that will address skin concerns like crow's feet, puffy eyes, and dark circles. Shop our recommended eye creams.
5. Night Cream
Finish your nighttime skincare routine with a rich night cream. Night creams have ingredients that repair and replenish your skin while you sleep. This last step locks in everything you’ve applied so you wake up with skin that feels soft, plump, and hydrated.
Professional Skincare Treatments in the DMV Area
A consistent morning and evening skincare routine keeps your skin healthy, while professional skincare treatments can enhance results. Targeted skincare treatments work beneath the surface, targeting concerns that products alone can’t reach. If you want a skincare routine tailored for your unique skin type, reserve a personalized consultation today by filling out our form online or calling us at (571) 310-3223. We offer virtual and in-person consultations, and are conveniently located in the Ballston Exchange.
FAQs
How does skin change after 40?
After 40, skin usually starts to get more dry, thin, and has less elastin. Natural oil production slows, cell turnover decreases, and fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage may become more noticeable.
How important is sunscreen after 40?
Sunscreen is very important no matter what age you are and should be applied daily. Broad spectrum SPF protects your skin from sun damage, helps prevent premature aging, and supports overall skin health.
Do I still need to exfoliate?
Yes, because as cell turnover slows, gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, smooth texture, and brighten your complexion. Exfoliate between 1–3 times per week, depending on your skin type.
How often should I cleanse my skin?
It’s important to cleanse your skin in the morning and evening. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin.
