Skin Care After 40: A Step-by-Step Routine

As you approach your 40s, your skin begins to lose some of its elasticity, revealing a few wrinkles and fine lines on the forehead, around the eyes, and around the mouth. 

The effects of aging can be minimized with a daily routine and natural products tailored to your skin type. Discover the best habits to adopt for radiant skin as you approach 40!

Makeup removal: an essential step

Whether or not you wear makeup, this step is essential. It removes not only all traces of makeup but also residue from pollution, dust, and dirt. City life takes a toll on the skin, which is exposed to a whole host of micro-aggressions that, when they accumulate, accelerate cellular aging. 

For natural makeup removal, you can opt for a plant-based oil such as coconut or jojoba oil. Put a few drops in the palm of your hand and then apply it all over your face, paying special attention to areas with makeup: eyes, eyebrows, eyelashes, and lips.

Although applying oil to your face might make you think you’re adding more oil to your skin, the opposite is true! Vegetable oils have antiseptic, antibacterial, nourishing, and sebum-regulating properties.

Use the right hydrosols

After removing makeup or as a morning toner, hydrosols are perfect for all skin types. Depending on your skin type—whether you’re prone to acne during your premenstrual period or if your skin is sensitive and tends to feel tight—you can choose from the following hydrosols:

• Lavender Hydrosol or rosemary: for treating acne.
• Roman chamomile hydrosol: eczema.
• Rose Hydrosol : sensitive skin.

Spray the hydrosol as a fine mist directly onto your face, then remove any excess by gently patting with a clean cloth, or gently apply the hydrosol using a washable cotton pad.

Plant-based oils for all skin types 

To prevent a loss of elasticity, you should start as early as possible. To do this, you can add a plant-based oil suited to your skin type to your daily skincare routine:

• Oily skin: Jojoba oil, nigella seeds, apricot pits.
• Dry skin: Rosehip Essential Oil, borage, argan, macadamia.
• Sensitive skin: Borage Essential Oil, argan, sweet almond. 

Kobido, an anti-wrinkle massage

Kobido is a facial massage technique that helps soften and tone the skin. 

Originating in Japan, this massage is performed daily using specific techniques such as kneading, rolling, and light stroking, all following the direction of lymphatic flow. 

Wrinkles are reduced, and the skin becomes firmer.

 There are
many videos online that teach the basics of this self-massage technique. Otherwise, you can either learn how to do it yourself or consult a professional who will take good care of you and bring out your full beauty!

Apply the appropriate serums

After age 40, the serum helps address the skin's specific needs more effectively thanks to its high concentration of active ingredients. 

The choice therefore depends first and foremost on your specific concerns: Hyaluronic acid helps maintain hydration and plump the skin; vitamin C brightens the complexion and provides antioxidant protection; and retinol is particularly valued for its ability to address signs of aging and improve skin texture.

Apply the serum after cleansing and before moisturizer, usually in a small amount. You can also alternate between different active ingredients in the morning and at night to tailor your routine to your skin’s needs. 

BONUS: The Perfect Meal for Beautiful Skin at 40

Taking care of your skin also means paying attention to what you eat. Your skin reflects your inner health. If you’d like to learn more, feel free to consult a naturopath, who can provide you with information and guidance on how to alleviate skin problems. 

For beautiful skin at age 40, here's what your plate should include:

• Fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables: for their vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and high antioxidant content.
• Protein: red meat no more than twice a week, chicken, fish, eggs... be careful with processed meats!
• Organic whole-grain or partially whole-grain cereals; avoid white flour.
• Omega-3s: cold-water fish, nuts and seeds, chia seeds, olive oil, canola oil, and virgin cold-pressed flaxseed oil.
• Legumes : Remember to soak them overnight before cooking to break down the phytic acid. 

Watch out for excesses: a sedentary lifestyle, alcohol, fast food, sweets, soda, exercise... Too much of anything is bad for you!

See also: Japanese layering: the steps of the beauty ritual for beautiful skin