Turning 40 has been a bit of a wake-up call for me when it comes to skincare. Sure, I could pretend I’ve got everything figured out, but the truth is, this year has forced me to be more intentional about what I put on my skin. The mantra I’ve been living by? “Less, but better.” As I’ve aged, I’ve found that paring down my routine and sticking to a few proven products has been far more effective than piling on the latest trends. So, I thought I’d share the essentials that have become my holy grail, alongside the treatments I swear by and a realistic take on injectables.
The Skincare Routine That Works for Me
First things first: my skincare routine is results-driven, and I keep it pretty streamlined. These are the products I use daily — in order, and sometimes with a tweak here and there.
- Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
I’m all about splurging on high-quality skincare, but when it comes to cleansers, I keep it simple. Cetaphil is gentle, non-irritating, and does its job without stripping my skin. After all, I need that beauty budget for more active products, not the basics. - True Botanicals Ginger Turmeric Cleansing Balm
At night, I can’t resist this cleansing balm. It’s like a mini facial experience, melting away makeup and leaving my skin feeling soft and rejuvenated. I follow up with a second cleanse using Cetaphil, just to make sure everything’s fully cleaned. - U Beauty Resurfacing Compound
This product is my secret weapon. It combines retinol, vitamin C, antioxidants, and hydroxy acids into one powerhouse formula that promotes cell turnover without irritation. I’m not exaggerating when I say this has replaced several different serums I used to juggle. - SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Peptide Serum
This is my latest obsession. Proven in clinical trials to reduce lines and give that coveted glass-skin glow, it works beautifully on its own — or as a complement to injectables. It’s a great option for those looking for needle-free wrinkle correction. - U Beauty Super Hydrator
For the morning, this is my go-to. It’s lightweight yet hydrating, absorbing into the skin for all-day moisture without that greasy feel. It’s a perfect fit for my combination skin. - iNNBEAUTY Extreme Cream
Nighttime is when I need some heavy lifting. This rich moisturizer firms my skin, lifts it, and helps repair the skin barrier. I apply it generously before bed, and wake up feeling like I’ve had a mini facial overnight. - True Botanicals At-Home Facialist Peel
1-2 times a week, I use this at-home peel, and it’s like having a professional-grade exfoliation. The combination of AHA, BHA, and PHA really delivers on brightening and smoothing, and I always follow it up with a dermaplane to keep my skin as smooth as possible.
The Tools That Keep My Skin Glowing
A good routine is essential, but I also rely on a few at-home tools to elevate my results.
- Dermaflash Luxe+
I’ve been using this for years, and I’m still shocked that more people don’t incorporate dermaplaning into their routine. It gets rid of peach fuzz and dead skin cells, leaving my face glowing and fresh. Plus, it unclogs pores, which gives me that smooth, glass-skin effect. - ZIIP Halo
The ZIIP Halo has been a game-changer. This device uses microcurrent technology to tone and tighten the skin. I usually use it for 5-10 minutes while I’m doing other things (multitasking is key), and I can honestly say it helps lift and tone my face, giving me a more sculpted look. - The Skinny Confidential Ice Roller
After using the ZIIP, I grab my ice roller from the freezer and roll it over my entire face. It helps reduce puffiness, tightens my skin, and improves circulation. It’s like a mini facial massage that feels amazing.
In-Office Treatments: What I Get, and Why I Keep It Simple
When it comes to in-office treatments, I don’t overdo it. I’m strategic about what will give me the best results, without overwhelming my skin or budget. On average, I get about 2-3 treatments a year, and they usually include chemical peels, laser treatments, or microneedling with radio frequency. These focus on treating discoloration, fine lines, skin texture, and sagging. My goal isn’t to “prevent” aging (that’s not possible) — it’s to maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin.
One treatment I’ve recently added is Microtox, which is a subtler form of Botox. I get tiny amounts in a few areas to relax the fine lines and slightly lift my brow for symmetry. The goal isn’t to freeze my face but to soften the lines and maintain a natural, refreshed look.
Speaking of injectables, I have mixed feelings. While I completely support people doing whatever makes them feel most confident, I think there’s been a bit of overuse in recent years. Sometimes, I see people with so much filler that they begin to look similar to each other, and it takes away from their individuality. I believe our unique features are what make us beautiful, and anything that diminishes that authenticity also dims our light.
Aging with Grace: Embracing the Now
Ultimately, I’m grateful for the skincare tools and treatments available today. But I also never want to forget that true beauty comes from within. Confidence, kindness, and a good sense of humor will always be more attractive than any beauty product or procedure. To me, aging gracefully isn’t about clinging to the past; it’s about embracing the present with confidence and an inner light that shines brighter with each passing year.
At the end of the day, this is my approach to skincare: simplicity, consistency, and a little self-love — because that’s the secret to glowing, radiant skin at any age.
