What skincare should I be using in my 40s?

Mirelle Spa
Dec 30, 2025
3 min read

If you are in your 40s and feeling unsure whether your skincare still suits your skin, we’re not surprised! There’s so much information out there, but we’ve hopefully simplified it. This is the decade where skin can change noticeably, but the right routine can make a visible difference. Here is our practical, step-by-step guide to caring for your skin in your 40s, focusing on what to use, how to use it, and when professional treatments can help.

1. Start with a proper skin assessment

Your skin in your 40s is influenced by hormones, lifestyle, stress and sun exposure. What worked in your 30s may no longer be enough.

How to do this at home: Pay attention to dryness, sensitivity, dullness, pigmentation and fine lines. Notice how your skin feels after cleansing and how it feels by mid-afternoon.

How we help professionally: A professional skin consultation allows us to assess hydration, barrier health and signs of premature ageing, so your routine is built specifically for your skin, not your age.

2. Cleanse gently but thoroughly

As skin matures, it becomes drier and more delicate. Harsh foaming cleansers can strip the skin and worsen fine lines.

How to cleanse properly: Use a cream, milk or gentle gel cleanser morning and evening. Massage onto damp skin for at least 60 seconds to remove makeup, SPF and pollution. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Avoid squeaky clean skin. That tight feeling means your barrier has been compromised.

3. Prioritise hydration every single day

Dehydration makes lines look deeper and skin appear dull.

What to use: A hydrating serum containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. A moisturiser designed to support the skin barrier.

How to apply: Apply serum to slightly damp skin. Seal it in with moisturiser while the skin is still hydrated. In the evening, use a richer cream if your skin feels tight or dry.

4. Introduce active ingredients carefully

Active ingredients help stimulate collagen, brighten skin tone and improve texture, but they must be used correctly.

Key actives for your 40s: Vitamin C in the morning to support collagen and protect against environmental damage. Retinol or retinoids in the evening to improve fine lines and skin renewal. Niacinamide for barrier repair and redness control.

How to use safely: Introduce one active at a time. Use retinol two to three evenings per week to start. Always follow with moisturiser. Never use retinol and exfoliating acids together at first. If skin becomes sore or flaky, reduce frequency rather than pushing through.

5. Wear SPF every day, no exceptions

Sun damage is the leading cause of premature ageing. Even on cloudy days, UVA rays break down collagen.

How to use SPF correctly: Apply every morning as the final step in your skincare. Use at least half a teaspoon for the face and neck. Reapply if spending extended time outdoors.

Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher that feels comfortable on your skin so you actually wear it daily.

6. Exfoliate for glow, not irritation

Cell turnover slows down in your 40s, which can lead to dullness.

How often: Once or twice a week is enough.

What to avoid: Harsh scrubs that can cause micro damage.

What to choose instead: Gentle chemical exfoliants or enzyme based products.Professional exfoliation during facials for safe, controlled results.

7. Support your skin with professional treatments

At home, skincare is essential, but professional treatments can take results further.

Benefits of regular facials: Deep hydration and nourishmentImproved skin texture and brightness. Targeted treatment for ageing concerns. Professional guidance as your skin changes

We tailor every facial to your skin’s needs, whether you are concerned about dryness, fine lines or loss of firmness.

8. Be consistent and patient

Skincare in your 40s is about consistency, not quick fixes.

What to expect: Hydration improvements within weeks, Texture and brightness changes within one to two months. Visible improvements in lines and firmness over several months

Your skin responds best to steady care rather than constantly changing products.