Right now, my skincare is pretty basic. I use a daily SPF 15 moisturizer and some mascara. Once in a while, I use a foaming cleanser in the shower if I remember. I want to get a consistent routine with a few good products, but it needs to be simple and quick. I’m 41 and have normal skin (not too dry or oily). Any ideas?
Honestly, I’d suggest getting an SPF that’s not mixed with a moisturizer and has a higher protection level. I’m 28 and have used SPF 50+ daily since I was in my late teens. I barely have any fine lines! At least go with SPF 30.
Good point! I should probably say I’m trying to prevent lines before they start. I don’t have any yet, but living in Australia, the sun is pretty intense.
Oh, if you’re in Australia, I’d definitely say SPF 50 minimum! Better safe than sorry.
Yeah, I use SPF 50 all over if I’m going to the beach. But for work or errands, I get a bit lazy. I just need some good brand recommendations.
Start super simple so it’s easy to stick with it!
AM:
- Gentle cleanser (try La Roche Posay Toleriane, CeraVe foaming, or Versed The Purist)
- Basic moisturizer (Naturium Multi-Peptide is a good one)
- SPF 50 sunscreen (Asian brands like Purito or Skin Aqua are awesome)
PM:
- Cleanser
- Moisturizer
After a month or two, if you’re consistent, you can think about adding a retinol or something for fine lines.
You’ve got to try retinoids! They’re amazing for both acne and anti-aging effects (help with lines, dark spots, etc.). I use Differin gel, which is technically for acne but works wonders for aging skin.
Just read up a bit first. (1) It’s good to know what it can do, and (2) it can dry your skin, so start small and build up. Seriously, retinoids are magic for skin!
Just a heads-up, retinol is also a kind of retinoid.
Try SPF 30 only if you’re really just running from your car to a door. Cleanser, moisturizer, SPF, and an oil cleanser to wash it off at night make a great start!
Retinoids can help with fine lines too. Check out Dr. Idriss’s videos on retinoids for some extra info.
A hyaluronic acid serum under your moisturizer helps to plump up any fine lines you might have now. Regular sunscreen and staying hydrated are also key! I’m 52 and barely have any wrinkles at all.
I’m 40!
Skin tends to get drier as we age, so hydration is really important. But, if you don’t exfoliate, products won’t absorb as well; they just sit on top.
My routine:
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In the morning, I just use water, then apply CeraVe Hydrating Toner, then HA serum, a second serum, and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream (quick routine). For you, I’d suggest toner, HA, and Cetaphil. After 20 minutes, I put on SPF 50 (I like Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence, easy to find on Amazon or Stylevana).
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At night, I’d use a foaming cleanser, then toner, and moisturizer. You can add HA at night too if you like. I really like AHA serums; they exfoliate and help with texture and fine lines. Start using it once a week in the evening, then slowly build up. If you want to try retinol, a good one is Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer. It’s a milder option, and you can apply Cetaphil over it if it feels drying.
Adding a vitamin C serum or retinol to your routine can make a big difference.