Skin Care Tips for Women Over 40
When a person reaches 40 the signs of ageing become more pronounced. Flaws that were once only visible in bright light become evident even in the evening or in candlelight. What are the signs that begin to appear, what are their causes and what can you do to slow the physical evidence of the years that have given you your wisdom? The visible signs that occur are:
- More and deeper wrinkles appear.
- The body’s production of collagen decreases.
- Elasticity and resilience are lost.
- Discoloration from sun damage becomes more pronounced.
- Hormone fluctuations cause changes in sebum production.
- Cell turnover rate slows dramatically.
All of these are typical signs of the ageing process. Unfortunately, there is no way to freeze your complexion at the age of 24, but it is definitely possible to slow the advance of the visible ravages of time. It is not simply genetics that allow one 40 something to look like a graduate student and cause another to look matronly. There are a large number of things you can do to look your best after 40.
- Start from the inside out. What is important in your 20s is much more so in your 40s.
- Get sufficient sleep, now more than ever.
- Exercise regularly — maintaining proper circulation is vital.
- Eat a healthy diet — not only for your weight — it is also for all of the anti-oxidants and phyto-nutrients that allow your skin to glow.
- Minimize stress — the results of stress show more as you age.
- Always use sunscreen — discoloration and sun damage show more readily as you age.
- Make sure you are getting enough anti-oxidants — they fight free radicals which cause cell damage — take supplements if you do not get enough in your diet.
- Re-evaluate your cleansers, toners and moisturizers. It is likely time to switch to richer, creamier products.
- Exfoliate regularly — with the slow down in cell turnover rate it is even more important after 40.
- Add specific treatments geared towards your trouble spots. Talk to your dermatologist about retinols, topical vitamin C, hyaluronic acid etc.
- When signs of menopause begin monitor your hormone levels. They can create havoc not only in your moods but your skin can also erupt in teenage style breakouts.
- Change foundations — although creamier moisturizers are needed lighter foundations are recommended. The denser your foundation is the more it will settle in to, and draw attention to, those creases and crevices that do not need to be noticed.
With regular care and maintenance there is no reason that your skin can not look absolutely wonderful in your 40s. It is true that more vigilance is required than when you were in your 20s and 30s. Just a few minutes, twice daily, with carefully chosen products can make a big difference. First, replenish your body with all it needs from the inside in terms of health and nutrition. Follow with make-up designed for your skin. Then show the world that 40 really is the new 30.