7 Skincare Habits Every Woman Over 40 Should Break—Starting Now

Think you’re doing all the right things for your skin after 40? Think again. Skincare habits over 40 need a serious glow-up, and sometimes even the most well-meaning routines can secretly sabotage your radiance. The good news? A few simple shifts can make a world of difference. In your 40s, your skin naturally produces less collagen and experiences slower cell turnover, making it even more essential to adjust your routine to meet its evolving needs.

Let’s dive into the everyday skincare mistakes you might be making—and what to do instead—so you can keep your skin vibrant, healthy, and radiant from the inside out.

1. Still Sleeping on Cotton Pillowcases

If you’re over 40 and still snoozing on a cotton pillowcase, it’s time for an upgrade. Cotton can tug on your skin and hair, leading to creases and breakage over time. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends switching to silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction and help skin look smoother. It’s like a nightly spa treatment for your face and hair—smooth, gentle, and oh-so-worth it.

2. Ignoring the Power of Internal Health

Glowing skin isn’t just about serums and creams—it’s deeply tied to what you put in your body and how you nourish your mind. Chronic stress can increase cortisol levels, which directly accelerates skin aging (source). Poor hydration and processed foods also show up on your skin. Focus on real, whole foods, drink plenty of water, and manage stress with practices like yoga, meditation, or even a good old-fashioned dance party in your kitchen.

3. Over-Exfoliating

Exfoliating feels amazing—that fresh, smooth skin!—but overdoing it strips your skin’s natural barrier. Over-exfoliation can lead to inflammation, sensitivity, and even premature aging. Especially as we age, our skin needs more TLC, not tough love. Stick to gentle exfoliation 1–2 times a week and listen to your skin. If it feels tight, red, or sensitive, back off.

4. Using the Same Products You Did in Your 20s and 30s

Your skincare habits over 40 should evolve, just like you have. What worked at 25 might not cut it now. Look for formulas with powerhouse ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, peptides for firming, and antioxidants like Vitamin C for brightening. Bonus points if they’re clean, non-toxic, and cruelty-free.

5. Skipping SPF on Cloudy Days

“It’s not sunny, so I don’t need sunscreen,” said every woman who now regrets it. UV rays penetrate clouds and windows—and they’re major players in premature aging. In fact, up to 90% of visible skin aging is caused by sun exposure. Read that again…90%! Make SPF your non-negotiable, 365 days a year. Your future self will thank you. This is your #1 skincare habit over 40!

6. Neglecting Your Neck and Chest

If you’re treating your face like a queen but ignoring your neck and chest, you’re setting yourself up for a tale of two skin tones. Extend your skincare (cleansing, moisturizing, SPF) all the way down to your chest. These delicate areas crave the same love and protection as your face—and they’re often the first places to show signs of aging.

7. Thinking Skincare is Only Skin Deep

Your skin is your body’s largest organ—and it’s deeply connected to what’s going on inside. Hormonal shifts, inflammation, and gut health all play a role in how your skin looks and feels (source). Support your skin by supporting your whole self: eat nourishing foods, get quality sleep, move your body, manage stress, and choose products that enhance (not harm) your natural beauty.

Wrapping It Up!

Taking care of your skin after 40 isn’t about chasing perfection — it’s about honoring yourself at every stage. By breaking these common skincare habits and embracing a more intentional, inside-out approach, you’re giving your skin the love, nourishment, and protection it truly deserves.

Small shifts add up to big, beautiful results — and trust me, your future self will be glowing with gratitude. You’ve earned every laugh line, every sun-kissed freckle, every moment that brought you here. Now it’s time to glow even brighter.

Ready to level up your skincare game?

Explore clean, powerful solutions like our Restore Vitamin C Serum and let your radiant beauty shine through — today, tomorrow, and beyond.

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