9 Signs It’s Time to Change Your Skincare After 40

Somewhere between figuring out how to make peace with fine lines and realizing your skin doesn’t bounce back the way it used to, you hit 40—and your skincare routine suddenly needs a serious glow-up. If you’ve been coasting along with the same cleanser and moisturizer you’ve used since your 20s, it’s time for a wake-up call (and maybe a better eye cream). Your skin has changed, and what worked before isn’t cutting it anymore.

But don’t panic. This isn’t about chasing youth; it’s about giving your skin what it actually needs now. Because let’s be real—our 40s come with enough life upgrades (hello, better confidence and stronger boundaries), so why shouldn’t our skincare level up too?

Why Your 20s & 30s Skincare Routine No Longer Works

Your skin at 40 is not the same skin you had at 25, and that’s a good thing. It’s been through life, laughter, sun exposure (with or without SPF—no judgment), and probably some questionable product choices. But biologically speaking, here’s what’s happening:

Collagen production slows down – Translation: skin gets thinner, less bouncy, and fine lines start showing up uninvited.

Moisture levels drop – If your skin feels drier than a neglected houseplant, blame decreasing oil production.

Cell turnover slows down – Meaning, dull skin takes longer to shed and reveal fresh, glowy skin underneath.

Hormonal shifts – Whether it’s perimenopause or just general life changes, your skin may suddenly decide to be drier, oilier, or more sensitive (fun times, right?).

So, what do you do? Upgrade, adapt, and embrace skincare that actually works for your 40s.

What Your Skin Needs in Your 40s

Now’s the time to focus on hydration, repair, and protection. Here’s how to tweak your routine:

1. Gentle Cleansing is a Must

Harsh foaming cleansers that stripped your skin in your 20s? Toss them. Switch to a hydrating cleanser that cleans without leaving your skin feeling like a desert.

2. Exfoliate… But Not Like You’re Sanding a Table

Cell turnover is slower now, so gentle exfoliation (think lactic acid or an enzyme-based product) will help keep your skin looking fresh. Skip the harsh scrubs—your skin isn’t a piece of furniture.

3. Serums Are Your New Best Friend

If you haven’t already, get yourself a **vitamin C serum** (for brightness) and a **hyaluronic acid serum** (for hydration). And yes, **retinol** is still the gold standard for fine lines—just go for a gentler formula if needed.

4. Moisturize Like Your Skin Depends on It (Because It Does)

Lightweight gel moisturizers were fun in your 30s, but now your skin needs **richer, more nourishing** creams. Look for ones with ceramides, peptides, and fatty acids.

5. SPF Is Non-Negotiable

If you’re still skipping sunscreen, please reconsider. Sun damage speeds up aging, and SPF is the easiest anti-aging product you’ll ever use. Go for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher—every single day.

6. Eye Cream Isn’t a Gimmick

Crow’s feet, puffiness, and dark circles? The eye area is the first to show signs of aging, so a hydrating eye cream with peptides or caffeine can make a difference. Just don’t expect miracles overnight.

7. Oil-Based Products Are Not the Enemy

If you were terrified of face oils before, now’s the time to reconsider. A few drops of a good facial oil (rosehip, squalane, or marula) can seal in moisture and give your skin that healthy, lit-from-within glow.

8. Your Neck & Hands Deserve Love Too

You don’t want a smooth face and crepey neck situation. Whatever you’re using on your face—bring it down to your neck and hands.

9. Lifestyle Matters More Than Ever

Skincare is great, but don’t forget the basics: drink water, eat nourishing foods, get enough sleep, and manage stress. No cream can fix chronic dehydration or lack of sleep.

Your Skin, Your Rules

Changing your skincare in your 40s isn’t about fighting aging—it’s about working with your skin, not against it. It’s about ‘taking care of what you have, feeling good in your skin, and embracing the glow that comes with experience and self-care.’

So, upgrade your skincare, but do it for yourself. Because confidence, wisdom, and a solid skincare routine? That’s the real glow-up.