Written by Our Editorial Team
Thirty. For many, it’s a wonderful decade filled with a newfound sense of self, career promotions, and growing families. From the moment that milestone birthday arrives, however, you may notice some new challenges when it comes to your skin—fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and even volume loss.
No need to worry, though, it’s the perfect time to really hone your skin health. So while you can’t undo those parties and sun tans of your 20s now appearing on your skin (don’t worry, keep the memories!), you can build a habit that cares for and prevents more damage to your skin as you enter your next decade of life.
To help you get there, we’ve compiled a complete morning and evening skin routine for your 30s-40s
What’s going on? A quick recap
During your 30s, skin cell turnover starts to slow down, meaning your skin may be looking drier, duller skin than it was just years before.
The rate of collagen and elastin production lowers, meaning it’s also the decade most people notice fine lines and wrinkles appear.
You’ll start to see the accrued impact of environmental and genetic aging. For example, too much time in the sun could appear as hyperpigmentation in your 30s.
AM Routine
AM Routine
Cleansing your skin starts your skin off with a fresh canvas to best absorb the nutrients from serums. Some people with dry skin or skin concerns prefer to wash their face with lukewarm water in the morning so that you're not stripping away natural oils or aggravating eczema or rosacea.
Sound like you? Consider the quality of your tap water. Hard water can be harsh on your skin, potentially contributing to premature aging. Using a water filter can help reduce water hardness, which may improve your skin's overall health.
Vitamin C serum
A daytime serum is a great way to pack on additional nourishment to your skin. If late nights and UV exposure are making their debut on your skin, Vitamin C and other antioxidants help to bring back its natural glow. These antioxidants also help to protect your skin from further damage.
Keep in mind that everyone's skin is unique, so it’s also important to cater to your specific’s skins needs when it comes to your serum.
Light moisturizer
As your skin loses its natural plump, hydrated look, a nice daily moisturizer will become your new complexion pick-me-up. Find one based on your skin’s needs and the textures you love, then apply the moisturizer gently, in upwards motions.
SPF
Did you know that 80% of skin aging is due to the sun? If you’re not already, it’s time to protect your skin with SPF 50+ every time you leave the house.
- Use a nickel-sized dollop on the face, says the Skin Cancer Foundation.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, more after swimming or towel-drying.
- Be sure your sunscreen says “broad spectrum” on the label to protect from UVA and UVB rays.
PM Routine
Double Cleanser
You may have been a fan of Micellar water or makeup wipes in your 20s, but those can be a bit rough on mature skin. Now’s the time to invest in cleansing thoroughly so your skin can breathe and absorb the serums (in the next step).
It’s time to consider double cleansing – that is, an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and the day’s impurities, followed by your favorite gentle cleanser as an extra insurance.
LED light therapy
In your 30s to 40s, you may be thinking about professional treatments to keep your youthful look. Luckily, you can still skip the clinic and rejuvenate your skin with at-home light therapy treatments, which often come in the form of LED light masks that you add to your routine post-cleanse.
It’s a scientifically proven method to help prevent and treat acne, fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. The key is aging gracefully via prevention, rather than trying to find a cure, so now’s the best time to start.
Restorative serum
Similar to your AM routine, a post-cleanser serum is the perfect boost of TLC for your skin. While your skin rests and restores at nighttime, give it an anti-aging serum packed with ingredients. Our favorites? Argireline® Peptides, Retinol, Bakuchiol, and Niacinamide.
As a bonus, add on a once a week treatment such as eye patches or your favorite face mask to really target problem areas such as crow’s feet or hydration with some specialized TLC.
Moisturizer
Similar to your AM routine, you’ll want to lock everything in with a moisturizer. If you have dry skin, opt for a thicker cream. You can also look for plumping ingredients here such as hyaluronic acid and collagen.
Effortlessly embrace graceful aging
This essential skincare routine is the perfect foundation for vibrant skin that feels good to you year after year. While everyone has different skin, you can zero in on hydration and sun protection, using high-quality products, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. With such good habits, you can achieve a glowing complexion at any age.
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