The Ultimate Skincare Guide for Your 40s

I’m going to be honest: I struggled to write this piece. As much as I’m embracing aging, it’s still hard to reprogram those deeply ingrained beliefs about growing older—especially when it comes to my face. Seeing Pamela Anderson rock a makeup-free looks has been a powerful reminder to lean into the ways we’re changing, not run from them. You can enhance your natural beauty by supporting your skin and its evolution.

I’ve noticed which updates to my skincare routine in my 40s have made the biggest difference in supporting the changes I’m experiencing. As you enter your 40s, hormonal changes, lifestyle adjustments, and years of exposure to environmental factors all cause an impact. So, here’s what you can expect from your skin as you enter your 40s—and how to stay ahead of it.

To break it all down, I reached out to Kayla Causey, a seasoned expert in the field. Kayla is a State Board-licensed esthetician in New York and California with 16 years of experience working with celebrity clientele. Kayla’s expertise goes beyond luxury treatments—she’s certified in oncology aesthetics through Wellness for Cancer, allowing her to offer therapeutic skincare treatments for those undergoing medical treatments. Her deep knowledge of skin health makes her the perfect resource for navigating the changes our skin experiences in our 40s.

Featured image from our interview with Catt Sadler, by Michelle Nash.

6 Common Ways Skin Changes In Your 40s

1. Loss of Collagen and Elasticity

The loss of volume in my face has been my biggest challenge. This realization led me to try more aggressive treatments, such as Sculptra, to restore some of that youthful plumpness. “In your 40s, collagen production slows dramatically,” Kayla explains. “This causes the skin to lose firmness and elasticity, making fine lines and sagging more apparent.”

How to treat it:

Kayla recommends integrating products that stimulate collagen production into your routine. One standout product? Skin Pharm Youth Serum. “This serum is packed with peptides and growth factors that help promote collagen synthesis while deeply hydrating the skin,” Kayla says. “It’s a great option for anyone looking to improve firmness and texture.”

2. Dryness and Dehydration

After having kids, my skin changed forever. What was once oily and acne-prone became noticeably drier. Kayla notes that this is common. “Hormonal changes in your 40s often lead to a decrease in sebum production, which can leave the skin feeling dehydrated.”

How to treat it:

To combat dryness, I’ve doubled down on hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Kayla also suggests layering lightweight, hydrating serums under a nourishing moisturizer to lock in moisture throughout the day.

3. Hyperpigmentation and Uneven Skin Tone

Years of sun exposure begin to show in your 40s as dark spots and uneven tone.

How to treat it:

This is the time to introduce brightening products, like vitamin C, and chemical peels, and prioritize daily sunscreen to prevent further damage.

4. Increased Sensitivity

As your skin matures, it may become more reactive to environmental factors or certain products. This sensitivity requires a “less is more” approach to active ingredients and harsher exfoliants.

5. Changes in Texture

Rough patches, enlarged pores, and uneven texture are common in this decade.

How to treat it:

Gentle exfoliation can help promote cell turnover and smooth the skin’s surface. A high-quality or prescription-strength retinol is the gold standard when it comes to treating pores.

6. Dryness

It’s no secret that skin tends to lose hydration with age, which can make fine lines and crepey-ness more noticeable.

How to treat it:

Richer moisturizers and hydrating serums are a must in your 40s. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture. For budget-friendly options, check out affordable skincare for your 40s.

Here’s what to focus on for great skin in your 40s

1. Invest in Active Ingredients

This is the time to lean into powerhouse ingredients like retinol (for cell turnover), peptides (for collagen support), and vitamin C (for brightening). We rounded up the top anti-aging skincare products for forties, according to experts.

2. Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable

Daily SPF is the single most important step to prevent further damage and protect against skin cancer. Reapply throughout the day, even if you’re mostly indoors.

3. Exfoliation for Cell Turnover

Gentle exfoliation, whether chemical or physical, can improve texture and brighten the complexion. Be careful not to overdo it, as over-exfoliating can lead to irritation.

4. Professional Treatments

Consider treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, or lasers for targeted concerns like hyperpigmentation or texture. Consult with a dermatologist to find what’s best for you.

5. Nutrition and Hydration

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and vitamins can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s health. Don’t underestimate the power of drinking enough water daily, too.

Stress Management and Sleep

Stress and lack of sleep can accelerate aging. Prioritize rest and find stress-relief practices that work for you, whether it’s yoga, meditation, or simply unplugging for a few hours. Changes in your hormones can also affect your sleep so get in the practice of good sleep habits and health.

Avoid Overdoing It

It’s easy to get carried away with too many active products, but this can backfire and irritate sensitive skin. Simplicity and consistency are key.

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Aging is inevitable, but it’s also a privilege. Embracing your skin at every stage of life is empowering. By caring for your skin with intention and consistency, you can amplify your natural beauty while aging gracefully. Confidence and self-care go hand in hand, and sometimes, less is more when it comes to makeup and products.

Your 40s are a transformative decade for your skin, but with the right care, you can feel radiant and confident. Small adjustments to your routine, like adding hydration, using active ingredients, and prioritizing SPF, can make a big difference. For more tailored advice, explore this skincare routine for your 40s.

Above all, remember: Aging is a journey, not a destination. Take control of your skin health, celebrate this new decade, and enjoy the beauty of being exactly where you are and where you are in this moment.