I Still Get Carded at 42 and I’m Sharing My Beauty Secrets!

Yes, I still get carded when I order drinks at bars which is ahhmazing!  I have to say part of it is due to the use of Paula’s Choice retinol and antioxidant serums for almost 20 years, as well as being a maniac about wearing sunscreen.   And, of course, part of it is definitely genetics.  I actually have my mom to thank for all three of these things. I get so many questions on my skincare regime so today I’m sharing my beauty secrets here! This combination of products has worked wonders on my skin so that it’s bright, hydrated, and firm.

AM Routine

Step 1: Wash My Face

I cleanse my face with face wash (see below in PM routine) at night to remove all the makeup, dirt, sweat, and particles from the day.  So, in the morning I simply wash my face with plain water just to freshen up and start the day.  It also helps to wake me up.

Step 2: Apply Antioxidant Serum & Vitamin C

The base of my beauty secret routine involves applying Paula’s Choice Resist Ultra-Light Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum with a couple drops of Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster.  The serum is lightweight and is targeted to improve signs of aging and it helps to firm the skin.   And the Vitamin C booster lends to a brighter complexion always leaving you with a youthful glow.  Applying product to your neck is just as important as your face.

Step 3: Apply Hyaluronic Acid or Moisturizer (Optional)

This is an optional step for me as moisturizer isn’t necessary if my skin isn’t dry.  My skin is fairly balanced (I know I’m fortunate!) but it does tend to dry out in colder months.  I’ll use The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 if I want a lighter feel on my skin.

For a heavier type of moisturizer, I’ve been using Youth to the People Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream.  I apply to face and neck.

Step 5: Apply Sunscreen

This is such an important step and a major player in the beauty secret book that is often missed as part of a daily routine.  Many foundations, BB creams, etc. include SPF but it may not be enough for daily use if you’re exposed to the sun on a more regular basis.  It’s always better to be safe than sorry.  According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an estimated 90 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun.  Not to mention the other staggering statistics of skin cancer and melanoma diagnoses.  This is critical step in my routine and it should be in yours as well.

When I know I’m going to be out in the sun for a more prolonged period of time I apply Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40.  This product has just about changed my life.  Gone are the days of heavy, sticky SPF.  This is weightless and just melts into your skin.  You’ll have no idea that you’re even wearing it.  Game.  Changer.

And if I happen to forget this step and realize it after my makeup has been applied, I spray on Supergoop! Defense Refresh (Re)setting Mist SPF 40.  It doubles as a makeup setting spray.  Bonus!

As always, I apply to the face and neck.  And I reapply, when necessary, depending on the duration of sun exposure.

PM Routine

Step 1: Wash My Face

This seems like an obvious beauty secret and simple part of a skincare regime, especially at night after skin has been exposed to the elements all day.  But it is often skipped as people are tired and just want to go to bed.  Even if you don’t wear makeup this step is extremely important as your face collects environmental particles and germs throughout the day that lead to clogged pores.  I’m currently using Dawn Lorraine fresh citrus cleansing gel as I wanted to try an organic product.  It exfoliates and cleanses without stripping the skin.

I replace the cleansing gel with Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser 2-3 times per week.  This helps to eliminate dry, dull skin and is not abrasive.  I apply to the face and neck.

Honestly, if I’m super tired and just can’t muster up the energy to wash my face I either quickly use a warm washcloth over my face (leaving my eye makeup on) or I use Pacifica Balancing Hemp & Lavender Makeup Removing Wipes (for when I’m super lazy which is rare).

Step 2: Apply Toner

I’m admittedly on and off with toner so I don’t use it religiously.  I use it when I wear more makeup than usual just to get a deeper clean.  I’m currently using Pixi Rose Tonic.

Photo: Ulta

I also apply with re-usable, washable organic bamboo pads to reduce the amount of waste that cotton rounds generate.

Step 3: Apply Eye Serum

This is a step I added into my routine some months back as BIOEFFECT EGF eye serum was recommended by a friend.  It’s a pricier pick but I had a discount code so I decided to try it.  It specifically targets fine lines around the delicate eye area.  If you’re looking for a quicker nighttime routine you can skip this step as long as you’re applying the serums mentioned in Step 4.

Step 4: Apply Retinol Serum & Vitamin C

The next step is to apply Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum with a couple drops of Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster.  The retinol serum is heavier than the antioxidant serum I use in my morning routine therefore I only use it at night, although it can be used twice a day.  It packs a bigger punch as it contains retinol which specifically targets the appearance of wrinkles.  I apply to both the face and neck.

Step 5: Apply Hyaluronic Acid or Moisturizer (Optional)

This is the same recommendation as my AM routine except I use True Botanicals Moisture Lock Overnight Mask.  It contains hyaluronic acid and mango butter and is a nice, lightweight mask for nighttime.

Step 6: Apply Eyelash Serum

This isn’t skincare but is a part of my nighttime routine.  I receive quite a few compliments on my eyelashes and always recommend BABE LASH Essential Serum.  I use this nightly until my lashes are looking long and lush and then switch to maintenance mode, applying 2-3 times per week.

Step 7:  Apply Nighttime Lip Conditioning Treatment

I’ve tried a number of lip balms and treatments but since using LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask I’ve had minimal issues with dry, chapped lips.  It’s only for nighttime wear as it is heavy but it does absorb overnight leaving my lips soft and supple when I wake in the morning, and ready to apply a fresh red lip.

And there you have it! Beauty secrets revealed for maintaining a youthful glow! I’m diligent about my routine as many of these products only work when applied consistently.  I really do believe it’s so important to care for your skin as it’s related to your health, confidence, and happiness.  If nothing else, please wear SPF!

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