Why has my skin changed so much in my late 30s and 40s?
- Mirelle Spa
- Jan 8
- 3 min read
If you feel like your skin has suddenly become drier, more sensitive, duller or prone to breakouts in your late 30s or 40s, you are not imagining it. Skin changes at this stage of life are very common and there are clear reasons why. The good news is that once you understand what is happening, you can make simple, effective changes that genuinely help.
Below is a clear, practical guide to what is going on with your skin and what you can do about it.
1. Hormonal changes affect your skin more than you realise
As we move through our late 30s and 40s, oestrogen levels begin to fluctuate. Oestrogen plays a big role in keeping skin plump, hydrated and resilient.
When levels change, you may notice:
• Increased dryness or tightness
• Sensitivity or redness
• Breakouts along the jawline or chin
• Skin that feels thinner or less firm
What you can do:
• Switch to gentler cleansers that do not strip the skin
• Add a hydrating serum morning and evening
• Avoid over exfoliating, even if your skin feels dull
• Book regular professional facials to support your skin barrier
2. Your skin produces less collagen and elastin
From our mid 30s onwards, collagen production slows down. This affects firmness, bounce and how quickly skin recovers.
You may notice:
• Fine lines appearing more quickly
• Skin feeling less firm
• Makeup not sitting as smoothly
What you can do:
• Use products containing vitamin C to support collagen
• Introduce retinol gradually and correctly
• Always apply SPF daily, even in winter
• Focus on consistency rather than lots of new products
3. Your skin barrier becomes weaker
A weakened skin barrier means moisture escapes more easily and irritants penetrate more deeply. This often leads to sensitivity, dryness and flare ups.
You may notice:
• Stinging or burning when applying products
• Redness that lingers
• Skin that feels tight even after moisturising
What you can do:
• Simplify your routine rather than adding more products
• Choose fragrance free or low fragrance skincare
• Use a nourishing moisturiser morning and night
• Avoid harsh scrubs and strong acids unless professionally guided
4. Lifestyle stress shows up on your skin faster
Poor sleep, stress, diet and dehydration impact skin at any age, but in your 30s and 40s the effects appear more quickly and last longer.
You may notice:
• Dull or tired looking skin
• Dehydration lines
• Breakouts linked to stress
What you can do:
• Increase water intake gradually
• Prioritise sleep where possible
• Support your skin with regular professional treatments
• Use calming, repairing skincare rather than harsh actives
5. The skincare that used to work may no longer suit you
Many clients are still using products designed for younger, oilier skin without realising it. As skin changes, your routine needs to change too.
What you can do:
• Review your skincare every few years
• Stop using products just because they used to work
• Book a professional skin consultation
• Choose targeted treatments rather than generic solutions
6. Professional treatments become more important
Home skincare is essential, but professional treatments help guide your skin through hormonal and age related changes safely and effectively.
Benefits include:
• Personalised advice for your current skin
• Correct product recommendations
• Treatments that support hydration, firmness and glow
• Preventing issues before they worsen
We stock and use professional grade skincare in salon and can recommend suitable products during your appointment. If you are unsure which products are right for you, we always advise a consultation rather than guessing.
Final thoughts
Skin changes in your late 30s and 40s are normal, but they do not have to be frustrating. With the right support, skincare and treatments, your skin can look healthy, calm and glowing at any age.
If your skin feels different and you are not sure what it needs, we would love to help.
Book your facial via our online booking link and let us guide you with a personalised, realistic approach to skincare.
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