What is a good day-time skincare routine for women over 35?
As we age, our skin becomes a lot drier. That youthful glow we once had regardless of a good night’s sleep or not disappears. I now understand the saying “youth is wasted on the young”.
And skin really does change when we reach this decade. We naturally lose volume in our face. This occurs as a result of a number of factors not least reduced fat levels that would otherwise provide structure to your skin and diminishing collagen production resulting in sluggish and sagging skin.
Environmental and sun damage also plays a part. As a 90’s girl I sunbathed like crazy with low spf – it’s fair to say I regret that one now.
Thankfully, there are many skin care products, facials, and cosmetic treatments that can help slow down the aging process and establishing a good skincare routine is an excellent start.
1. Cleansing: I do not mean cleansing wipes, they are a big no-no. Your skin needs to be clean, think squeaky clean to allow products to absorb and get to work.
2. Elixirs for the skin: Age busting serums with active ingredients such as vitamin C, phloretin, ferulic acid, vitamin E are a must.
3. Hyaluronic acid: This truly is a wonder product. Our own levels of hyaluronic acid in our skin significantly decreases as we age. Adding a serum containing this will improve hydration which can make skin appear fresher.
4. Re-hydrate: Add a layer of a moisturiser for extra hydration.
5. Sunscreen: Apply factor 50 sunscreen not just on summer holidays but EVERY DAY! And yes, even when it’s overcast. This will help protect your skin from harmful rays and prevent any further sun damage.
It surprises me when I come across women that don’t know which products they should be using and that have been using the same routine for years. We should be adapting our approach as our skin changes, only that way can we hope to keep glowing like our favourite women.Here are some of my favourite products that I religiously use on a daily basis.
Here are some of my favourite products that I religiously use on a daily basis.
Cleansers
ZO Skin health Hydrating cleanser £39.99
This is in my top 5 cleansers. More expensive than most, I don’t use this all the time but instead use it as an occasional treat. It’s great for normal to dry skin and it’s truly hydrating.
Skinceuticals Gentle Cleanser 200ml £28.00
This is my frequent use product. It feel really silky on your skin and I like the fact that it is gentle. A lot of good beauty salons use this product in their facials.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser 236ml from £6.99
It’s great to bag a bargain. I’ve bought it several times and never been disappointed. Even if this is stored in the cupboard as an emergency fallback this does what it says on the label. Also, great for sensitive skin.
Serums
Skinceuticals C E Ferulic – 30 ml £109
I love this product. It has all the powerful active ingredients I’m after. It has vitamin C & E, 0.5% Ferulic Acid. These ingredients help promote collagen production which is what we all need when we reach our 40s.
In my 30s my skin started to really change so I tried many different products but they all failed to make a difference. I researched and researched finally discovering Medik 8. This was the first cosmeceutical brand I’d tried using the simple ‘backed by science’ CSA philosophy – Vitamin C, Sunscreen and vitamin A at night. I’m a convert!!!
Exuviance Vespera Bionic Serum 30ml from £39.99
This serum contains Vitamin A, C, E that provides multi-antioxidant protection. I occasionally use this when I feel my skin has gotten too use to another product. A brilliant serum for a purse friendly price.
Hyaluronic Acid Serums
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydration Support Formula 30ml £5.99
By know everyone should know about this brand. The price tag remains unbelievably attractive and I knowing this I tend to smother my skin generously. A great product at a great price. My hubby also loves this one!
Medik 8 – HYDR8 B5 – 30 ML £33.00
This product is the first hyaluronic acid I used and I feel loyal to this company. It is a great serum that hydrates, plumps and smooths the skin. Don’t be stingy when applying it. Apply a couple of layers, it’s as if your skin seemingly drinks it up. A must buy.
Skinceuticals – HA Intentisfier 30 ml £76.00
Ok, so I think you know by know what I’m going to say… I don’t like it, I LOVE IT! This product glides onto your skin. Their promise is that it will dramatically amplify your skin’s natural hyaluronic acid levels by 30% in just 4 weeks. I can’t vouch for the science in this claim but I feel like it’s true. Try it!
Sunscreens
Heliocare Gel SPF50 – 50ml £15.00
This Australian brand sunscreen will protect your skin from harmful rays and works really well under make up. I have recommended this to so many women and wear it daily.
Neostrata Sheer Physical Protection SPF 50 – 50ml from £30.00
If you’re keener for your sunscreen to have a matt finish this is the one for you. The high SPF and light weight texture makes this a winner.
Skinceuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50
I have to include a sunscreen from this company as it’s a fantastic sunscreen. Suitable for all skin types with bonus of antioxidants.
Just remember, the cleansers and serums should last around two months and sunscreens less. If you’re not able to add another layer of sunscreen during the day and you’ve got an afternoon planned at an outdoor venue then wear a stylish floppy sun hat or visor together with huge sunglasses. Think A-List Look. Super Stylish! Enjoy.
