The Fortysomething Guide To Gorgeous Skin

The forties can be a tumultuous time on a woman’s anatomy; both inner and outer. It’s a time of major hormonal shifting, with physical changes in tow. And if you’re not ready, it can be excruciating. So, let’s talk about the skin you’re in and how to keep it absolutely gorgeous in your forties.

 

First off, the products you used in your twenties and thirties must go. It’s an entirely different set of issues you’re dealing with. Trust me. I know, because I’m currently living it. One of the most important things – for women of all ages – is to know your skin type so you can treat it effectively.

 

During this decade, the skin’s oil production or sebum begins to decrease leaving the skin relatively dry. Lucky for me, I’m of an oily constitution. So, my issue is with clogged pores and adult acne. Nonetheless, whether your skin is dry, oily or sensitive there are measures you can take to alleviate the not so thrilling effects of natural aging.

 

Characteristically at this age, the skin begins to appear dull and less vibrant. This in part to slow cell turnover and loss of elasticity. You may notice creases appearing around the mouth and corners of the eyes. Fine lines may pop up under the eyes and the cheeks may begin to droop a bit. In addition, body skin may not be as firm and tight as they once were. Of course, there is variation due to genetics.

 

Again, I cannot stress the importance of knowing your skin type. It is only in doing so you’ll be able to nail down the right regimen to effectively deal with your skin issues.

 

Facial products should include an appropriate, gentle cleanser, toner(especially for oily skin), moisturizer with SPF (for the day), serum and nightly moisturizer, masque and exfoliator.

 

Body products should include, gentle cleanser, body scrub, and moisturizer. I also do daily dry body brushing, which works wonderfully for smoothing my skin and for lymphatic circulation. It helps with the cellulite too.

 

The key is to be consistent. AM and PM cleansing and treating are vital to maintaining the healthy appearance and glow of maturing skin. But, it can be done.

 

Go easy on the makeup. Give your face some time to breathe in the fresh air.

 

Hydrate your body. Drink the recommended six to eight glasses of water per day.

 

An even more effective treatment for me, and probably the most important is nutritional intake, which is now one of the major arsenals in the fight against my skin care woes. Eating foods that are clean (organic) and green is hands down one of the best things you can do for your skin’s health. Consume foods that are rich in antioxidants (spinach, collard greens, asparagus, arugula); omega-3 fatty acids, (salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel). Take supplements (Bs and calcium).

 

Get active. Movement of any kind (walking, Zumba, pilates, yoga, biking, dancing) supplies much-needed oxygen to the cells of your body, and this will increase the energy available for them to do more effective work, which means faster cell turnover and healthier, more radiant skin.

 

Practice self-care techniques daily. Take time to breathe. Take time to be still. Take time to enjoy simple moments. Say kind words. Smile more. Give generously. Lend a helping hand to someone in need. Let go of anger. Deal and move on. These simple acts will feed you inner spirit, which will shine brightly and outwardly. You will shine bright like a diamond. Get 110 self-care tips here.

Of course, there are other ways to maintain gorgeous skin in your forties, but these are the big ticket musts that deals with the issues at their core.