How to Look After Your Skin in Your 40s

Jennifer Aniston

Above All, Moisturize
Regular moisturizing goes a long way. Like your body, your skin needs hydrating, otherwise it will soon lose its elasticity. Not only does a good moisturizer plump fine lines and wrinkles, but it also creates a protective barrier against environmental damage and replenishes moisture that’s naturally lost. Charlize Theron swears by La Mer for its ability to renew and rejuvenate tired skin.

La Mer ‘Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream’, from AED 336/SAR 343, Nordstrom

Apply A High SPF
No matter how amazing the sun feels against your skin, remember that it accelerates the aging process. Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery says that your 40s are the ideal time to start using retinol and to “step up your sun-protective strategies.” Every time you sit, lie, or walk in direct sunlight unprotected, you’re leaving your skin vulnerable to sun damage.

Nuxe ‘Sun Delicious Cream High Protection with SPF 30’, AED 109/SAR 111, all leading pharmacies

Don’t Forget Eye Cream
If you aren’t already, start applying eye cream first thing in the morning and last thing at night. The skin around the eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on the body, so it needs a little extra TLC. To avoid fine lines deepening, you need to regularly tighten and rehydrate the area with cream that’s sensitive and specific to the skin above the cheekbone. These creams are also great for tackling other under-eye problems, such as bags or puffiness.

La Mer ‘Illuminating Eye Gel’, AED 680/SAR 690, Harvey Nichols, Mall of the Emirates

Ditch the Makeup
Many panic at the first sight of a crease or crinkle and tend to overcompensate by caking on the foundation – but don’t! Take a barefaced approach to beauty and concentrate on keeping your complexion fresh and naturally youthful. Heavy makeup will only accentuate fine lines. Instead, invest in a lightweight tinted moisturizer that enhances the skin and creates an even toned glow.

Estée Lauder ‘Sheer Tint Release Advanced Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Moisturizer’, AED 198/SAR 202, Nordstrom

Switch to a Cream-Based Cleanser
Maximize your moisturizing potential with a cream-based cleanser. Cleaning the skin thoroughly ensures that any trapped makeup or bacteria is removed, which in turn prevents inflammation and irritation. Sleeping in makeup may seem harmless, but it actually stops the skin from replenishing through the night, resulting in dull, tired skin come morning. Rinse away the day using Burt’s Bees ‘Cream Cleanser’ before hitting the pillow.

Burt’s Bees ‘Intense Hydration Cream Cleanser’, AED 75/SAR 77, Souq

Eat Right
If you’re trying every youth-boosting trick in the book, shop for foods that help promote your skin’s natural glow. Leafy greens like kale are high in free radical-fighting antioxidants. Also try vitamin E-rich products, such as avocados and sunflower seeds, which naturally nourish and moisturize the skin. Most importantly, remember to drink lots of water. It flushes out toxins, leaving the skin smooth and supple.