Let’s be honest: skincare in your 40s, 50s, and above, is a whole different game. Hormonal changes, dullness, and fine (or deep!) lines start to sneak in — and the products that once worked magic in your 20s suddenly aren’t cutting it. Or if you were like me in your early 20’s, you barely did ANYTHING. I don’t even think I washed my face regularly…GULP!
But here’s the truth: you can have glowing, healthy, makeup-optional skin at any age — you just need the right products, but also to use them consistently!
At 47, I regularly get compliments, in real life, on my skin, and it’s not because of filters or facials! I actually can’t remember the last time I went for a facial?! Maybe it’s a tad genetics (thanks mom), but my skin honestly looks better now, than when I got married at 23.
Here’s a peek at my bare skin, after skincare, and then after makeup 🙂
It’s a smart, intentional lineup of five game-changing products for me lately. They work together to exfoliate, hydrate, brighten, and protect — without being complicated or costing a fortune. If you’re ready to look in the mirror and love what you see, these are my must-haves.
*And for reference, I have very dry, non-sensitive skin, rarely break out, so take that information to heart when deciding to try any of these products out for yourself!*
Exfoliating Cleanser: Because Dull Skin Has Left the Chat
Urban Skin Rx : Even Tone cleansing bar, $16. I have bought this 3 times already! As we age, our skin cell turnover slows way down, which leads to that tired, gray-ish look. A gentle exfoliating cleanser sloughs off dead skin, clears pores, and smooths texture — all in one step. I use it 3–4 times a week to keep my skin fresh and ready to absorb everything that follows. It instantly makes my skin look more alive (and makeup sits so much better on top).
Hot Tip – it comes with a round sponge applicator to use – do NOT store it in the tub once you’ve used it, it will mold quickly! Let the sponge air dry outside of the tub after each use.
Skin Glow Serum: The Radiance Reboot
Youth To The People Superfood Skin Drip, $39. Are you ladies sick of hearing me talk about this product yet?! A glow serum with powerhouse ingredients of niacinamide and dandelion root, brings back that lit-from-within look — minus the shimmer or stickiness. Think bright, even skin that looks like you just came back from a walk, even if you barely slept. Over time, it helps to boost firmness and give back that plump skin look. This is the serum that makes people ask, “What are you using on your skin??”
Tanning Face Drops: The Secret to a Sun-Kissed Look (Without the Sun)
Tanologist Face + Body Drops, medium, $20. Pale and patchy isn’t flattering at any age, but especially when you’re trying to look vibrant with summer approaching! These customizable tanning drops mix into your moisturizer and give a gradual, believable glow — not orange, not streaky, just healthy. I swear it takes 5 years off overnight. Bonus: with a little color, I wear less makeup and feel way more confident bare-faced. I personally mix about 3 drops into my face moisturizer or serum and mix together to get just the right amount of fake sun! I also swear by using this Anisa Beauty skincare brush, $22, to mix and apply these 2 products together (your moisturizer + tanning drops) because it makes it less streaky and none on the hands!
I’ve been a big fan of the Roc line of skincare products for a while and this one is pure gold for a drugstore brand. If you have oily skin, this even tone + lift formula $29, would be better for you.
Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer with SPF: Plump + Protect
Roc Multi Correxion Daily Hydrate + Plump with SPF 30, $25. If you’re not layering hydration and daily sun protection, your skin is missing out. A hyaluronic acid moisturizer keeps skin looking juicy and smooth, while the SPF guards against sun spots, sagging, and more fine lines. I love a 2-in-1 because it saves time and ensures I never skip SPF. Your morning moisturizer should be a glow-up in a jar — and this one is.
Eye Balm: Concealer’s Best Friend
Roc Multi Correxion Revive and Glow Eye Balm, $28. The under-eye area is the first place to betray us as we age — creasing, puffiness, and dryness can all make us look more tired than we are. I have been using this hydrating, blurring eye balm under my concealer every day since I bought it two weeks ago. I’ve used ALL the eye creams – this is different and actually effective!!
It smooths fine lines, reduces puffiness slightly (if you keep it stored in the fridge) , and makes everything apply more evenly. If you’ve been skipping this step, try it — it makes a big difference in looking fresh and awake. I’ve used it with multiple concealers and it works alongside them all. Ladies, this product is an actual gamechanger. Buy yourself one, use it daily, put a lot on, and comment back here once you’ve used it!
My favorite concealer lately is the Dior Backstage concealer, $32, if you’re looking to try a new one. I’m using 3N now that I’m tanning my face more – the 2N works when I’m pale.
Bottom Line: You Deserve Skin That Feels as Good as It Looks
Taking care of your mature skin isn’t vanity — it’s self-respect. You’re not trying to look 25. You’re aiming for healthy, confident, radiant skin that reflects how amazing you feel inside.
The Rest of My Look Details
I wore this Versona seersucker dress, $45, (a small) to the Masters in Augusta and just loved how breezy it was! Blue and white stripes are perfect for summer. You can see more of my visit to the Masters on my Instagram. Here’s a couple other dress options tho, from Tuckernuck bubble dress, $198, and JCrew Factory, $60. // You’ve seen all of my statement Sequin Jewelry chokers with add-on charms, and this one gets worn often. Take advantage of their biannual sale going on now until May 7th so take advantage if you want some truly well-made pieces.
This “Hot Cherry” gloss by Fenty Beauty, $26, is a stunner of a sheer red with a hint of pink. Makes my lips look hydrated and girly without being over the top colorful! // My foundation is of course the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Gel tint in shade 6 that is selling out everywhere (get on the waitlist if you have to!), and wearing this Major Dimension warm brown shadow palette by Patrick Ta, $70.
These five products aren’t fluff. They’re effective, intentional, and made for us — women who know that beauty only gets better with time (and the right tools). Invest in yourself, because you deserve skin that makes you feel unstoppable — at any age.
Still need to *quickly* order something for that special mom or mother-figure for Mother’s Day next Sunday?? Then check out my thoughtfully curated gift guide post from last week for the girly girl in your life who deserves to be pampered and loved on!
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