If someone had told me how complicated it would be to be a woman—and that it only gets more complicated as you age—I probably would’ve asked my soul to reincarnate as a cat instead of a girl!
Alright, jokes aside, we all know how tricky life can become after 40: the first wrinkles, the first silver hairs, those little aches and pains that creep in if you stop exercising… just to name a few.
What pushed me to write this article is my desire to share, with other women, the challenges I’ve been facing as my body changes in my 40s—and to tell you about a few small things I’ve found truly helpful for my skin type:
- Combination to oily (especially forehead, nose and chin)
- Prone to acne in the past
- Olive skin with blue undertones (Caucasian)
It’s easy to say we should all find balance and feel confident at any age—like those smiling ladies in their 50s who appear in night cream adverts. Lovely. I’d just like to see them before the kilo of make-up and two-hour hair styling session.
What really bothers me is how no one talks about the messy truth: it can take years of trial and error before you find beauty products that actually work for your unique skin and complexion.
And even when products are labelled “for women over 40,” that doesn’t mean they’ll work for everyone.
So, here I am this week to share my own experience—openly and honestly.
When it comes to skincare, the word that best sums up my past relationship with beauty products is: rollercoaster.
Because, let’s face it—years and years of watching those flawless girls and women on TV, advertising their miracle products: try this, buy that, feel transformed by this serum, witness a skincare miracle with that cleansing water… blah blah blah.
Eventually, something switched in my head, and I started rethinking how I chose the products in my beauty routine. The more I matured, the more I realised that none of those so-called miracle creams or waters did anything meaningful for my skin.
I wanted something that actually worked for me—a simple, streamlined collection of products that brought me comfort, effectiveness, and a sense of self-care. Something that aligned with my sustainable lifestyle and love for simplicity.
So, I had a deep reorganisational session—one full day to get rid of everything I owned up until that moment and create a sort of “zero point” from which to start fresh. From there, I focused on just the essentials:
- A good, neutral olive oil soap bar—for face, hands, and body (yes, I love a bar soap!)
- A gentle cleansing milk to remove make-up
- A nourishing oil for my combination skin (which might sound contradictory, but I’ll explain)
- A quality hair conditioner
- A trusty deodorant
On top of that, I discovered two smart devices that have brought me a lot of joy over time—which I’ll tell you about shortly.
That’s enough foreword—let’s get into the nitty-gritty!
Cleansing & Hydration — But Make It Simple
Let’s start with my daily skincare routine—super basic, minimalist, and surprisingly effective.
In the past, I used to buy every new face wash that promised radiant, baby-soft skin. I’d stand in front of my bathroom mirror every morning with a lineup of products like a chemist about to perform an experiment. Yet most of them either stripped my skin dry or left it greasy.
Now? I use a natural olive oil soap bar—and that’s it.
It’s old-fashioned, smells wonderfully clean, and works brilliantly for my skin. It lasts ages, lathers beautifully, and doesn’t irritate my face. I even use it on my body and hands. Less plastic, less waste, less fuss.
When I wear make-up (which isn’t every day), I remove it with a gentle cleansing milk (I’ll talk about which one later on). I’ve tried micellar waters and all those 2-in-1 removers, but most of them either stung my eyes or left a weird film on my skin. The cleansing milk is soft, non-greasy, and does the job—end of story.
For hydration, I ditched the dozens of tiny glass jars that promised eternal youth.
Now I use castor oil or coconut oil on my face, neck, and chest.
Yes, even though my skin is combination/oily—because the right oils actually balance out the skin’s sebum production rather than make it worse. But you do need to choose carefully.
💡 TIP:
If your skin is oily, avoid coconut oil (it’s comedogenic) and try castor oil instead. It’s purifying and thick, so a tiny drop goes a long way. Warm it between your fingers and press it into the skin. It gives you a lovely glow without clogging pores.
I also keep a refillable face mist bottle in my bag (just water, nothing fancy) to give myself a refreshing spritz when I’m out and about.
Bonus: it helps calm your skin if you’re sweating in the summer heat or freezing in winter winds.
✨ Castor oil for eyes and neck
The cosmetic properties of castor oil make it a real, little wonder of nature! I’m used to apply castor oil before I go to bed and in the morning, before I apply foundation and makeup.
Its consistency might not be for everyone, as it’s pretty viscous and thick, very close to the stickiness of a liquid lip balm.
For this reason, I use this oil for my face and neck, and when I apply it, I insist especially in the areas around my mouth and all along the border of my lips, where I feel my skin needs extra hydration, and on my neck.
With gentle, circular movements, I make sure the oil penetrates well deep into my skin. I don’t stop the circular movements until I feel my fingertips are clean (which means the oil has completely been absorbed by the skin).
The main results (after the first three months of use) I saw on the fine lines at the external eye sides, and on the plumpness of my lips.
I swear guys, I tried so many – sometimes even expensive – creams and serums, but none of them ever gave me the results and the long-lasting feeling of hydration I get with castor oil!
Hold tight while reading the list of beneficial effects of this oil, because you’ll be impressed!
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- Being rich in fatty acids, particularly ricinoleic oleic, and linoleic acid, castor oil deeply moisturizes and nourishes the skin;
- Castor oil, due to its thick consistency, it penetrates deep into the skin, stimulating the production of collagen (crucial protein for a firm, plump and youthful skin!) and elastin. As a consequence, this oil helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin;
- It contains a high amount of vitamin E as well as other antioxidants which help protect the skin from free radical damage, responsible of breaking down collagen, which is the factor that contributes to premature aging;
- Castor oil has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties thanks to salicylic acid, which is a natural exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. For this reason, a regular use of this oil, can help you prevent the buildup of sebum and bacteria (equal: no more acne and blackheads!);
- The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil help soothe irritated, itchy, and inflamed skin. If you suffer from eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis you should give this oil a try: you’ll be amazed by the results!
- Thanks to the high quantity of antioxidants, it fades dark spots and evens skin tone;
- It reduces puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. I’m proof in person of this!
- As mentioned before, castor oil is fabulous for keeping your lips nourished and supple! The fatty acids in castor oil help create a protective barrier on the lips, preventing moisture loss and keeping them hydrated and plump;
- Again, thanks to its fatty acids, castor oil creates a protective barrier on the skin, which enhances the effectiveness of other skincare products. Which means, in the end, you’ll get the most out of your skincare routine and achieve better results over time.
Guys, the benefits of this natural oil are beyond imagination. You need to try it out yourself.
✨ Coconut oil for body and hair
Another amazing natural oil I’ve been using for both my hair and body for years now, is coconut oil.
Or shall I say coconut butter?! 🤔 Yeah, if you use this oil yourself, you know what I’m talking about.
Coconut oil – if really natural – might be tricky to use, as its consistency changes depending on the season. It gets as solid as shea butter when the temperature drops, and it becomes as fluid as olive oil in summer.
My suggestion? Never buy coconut oil in a bottle, as you’ll damn the day you purchased it! If you want to give this oil a try, buy it in an easy-to-access kind of container (like a jar with a large cap or so).
Apart for this little inconvenient, I love using coconut oil especially on my hair, as it helps keep frizz under control on my hair ends in particular. Having very thick, frizzy hair, the only products that really work on them are natural oils.
Also, I often use this oil as a sort of nourishing mask to keep overnight.
As you can imagine, I tried over the years lots of different products, from the more professional ones purchased from my hair stylist to those from the market.
Matter of fact, after years of trials: my hair just can’t stand any other kind of product than linen or coconut oil.
What I sometimes do, is to enrich the oils I use both for my body and hair with essential oils and essences: lavender + lemon, and white musk + tea rose my ever favourites pairings! The first one to energize, the second one when I feel romantic.
Hair Care Essentials
When it comes to hair, I like to keep things simple—but intentional. No fancy 10-step routines, no miracle serums promising to regrow hair overnight. Just a few essentials that work with my hair’s natural texture and my lifestyle.
My hair is naturally thick, a bit dry at the ends, and definitely on the wavy side. I don’t dye it, and I let it air-dry most days—so the focus of my routine is all about keeping it clean, soft, and nourished, without overloading it with products.
1. Shampoo & Conditioner: The Bare Basics
I rotate between a couple of mild shampoo bars with no sulphates or silicones. My current go-to is a natural formula with olive oil and three antiseptic essential oils from my mum’s brand — it cleanses gently without stripping my scalp. I pair it with a conditioner by Pantene Pro-V (see below which one) to soften the ends, and that’s pretty much it.
I wash my hair every 3–4 days, depending on how it feels or what my schedule looks like. On in-between days, I rely on a boar-bristle brush to refresh the roots and distribute natural oils along the length.
2. Deep Nourishment: When My Hair Needs a Hug
About once every ten days, I treat my hair to a DIY mask. I mix a teaspoon of castor oil with a touch of coconut oil (sometimes warmed slightly so it blends better) and massage it into my scalp and ends. I leave it on for an hour or two—or even overnight if I’m feeling brave—then shampoo it out the next morning. It gives my hair a noticeable boost of softness and shine.
When I’m in a hurry but still want a little something extra, I’ll warm a drop of coconut oil between my palms and smooth it over my ends. Instant hydration and frizz control—without that sticky, product-y feel.
3. Styling: Minimal & Fuss-Free
I almost never use heat tools. I prefer to braid my hair loosely at night or tie it into a low bun to create natural waves. On the rare occasion that I do reach for a hairdryer or straightener, I make sure to apply a natural heat protectant spray. Rice water is a great option!
Bonus: it’s cheap, effective, and doesn’t leave white residue once brushed in.
4. Mindful Products Only
Everything I use on my hair is free from parabens and harsh chemicals. I check labels carefully, just like I do with food.
And when I can find a good solid shampoo or refill option, I’ll go for it—it’s one less plastic bottle in my bathroom, and one more step towards a conscious routine.
My Long-Time Hero: Sauber Deodorant
Few things throw me off my self-care game quite like the fear of smelling… less than fresh. Especially in summer, it’s something that really gets to me.
That’s why, whatever the season, you’ll always find a deodorant stick and a packet of wet wipes tucked into my bag—just in case.
My tried-and-true lifesaver? A German brand called Sauber ( = “clean” in German), which I first discovered during my university years in Dresden.
Translation: it’s been exam stress tested!
Back then, they only had one version on the market—a classic white cream in a small tube. It worked beautifully, but there was one catch: because it was white, it tended to leave marks on the underarms of my clothes. Annoying, but forgivable.
Thankfully, over time, Sauber expanded their range. They now offer both a clear, trace-free stick and an updated cream formula—so that little issue is history.
What I love most is how gentle this deodorant is on my underarm skin. It’s non-sticky, reliable, and even comes in a 7-day protection version (yes, really).
It’s the kind of product that quietly does its job so well, you forget about it—until you’re packing for a trip and realise you’d never leave without it.
The Smart Tools That Changed My Routine
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✨ Beurer Silk’n Light-Pulsed Hair Remover
As a Latin girl, one of my lifelong beauty battles has been dealing with hair on my legs and underarms. So can you imagine my pure joy when light-pulsed hair removal devices became accessible to the general public?
The one I bought years ago on Amazon is from the German brand Beurer, a globally trusted brand when it comes to medical devices and (lately) smart beauty tools as well. This little machine is incredibly handy, easy to use, and safe on all skin types—thanks to its adjustable light intensity levels that adapt to your skin tone.
From my own experience, hair growth decreases more and more with each session. I used to treat the same areas once a month during the colder months, then take a break during summer. And believe it or not, this device has been a game-changer for me—not just in terms of hair reduction, but actual hair inexistence!
The amount of time I’ve saved (and keep saving!) is honestly priceless. And beyond that, there’s a real sense of cleanliness and confidence that comes with being hair-free in certain areas. It’s one of those silent victories that really elevates your routine.
✨ Pore-Cleansing Device
My second ride-or-die smart tool is a semi-professional ultrasonic skin scrubber I bought back in 2019 from a Chinese brand called ANLAN. I’m still happily using it today. It’s designed for deep cleansing, gentle face peeling, and blackhead removal—basically, a home spa in your hand.
Here’s how I use it: once a week, after a 15-minute facial sauna (which helps to open up my pores), I glide the scrubber over my skin to clear away buildup and impurities. It’s a small step, but it’s made a big difference.
After years of use, I can honestly say that the appearance of my pores has visibly improved, and my skin feels far more receptive to oils and serums afterwards. If you’re into low-effort, high-impact skincare, this is one of those gadgets worth considering.
Other Products I Swear By in My Daily Beauty Routine
Let’s round things off with a few more staples that deserve a special mention. These are the unsung heroes that help me stay fresh, radiant, and low-maintenance—all while feeling like myself.
🧼 Olive Oil Neutral Soap (for Face, Body & Personal Hygiene)
This is simplicity at its finest. I use a neutral soap based on olive oil for just about everything—face cleansing, body wash, and even intimate hygiene.
It’s gentle, unscented, and doesn’t strip my skin of its natural moisture. The fewer ingredients, the better—especially when your skin starts becoming more reactive with age.
💧 Pantene Pro-V Conditioner for Frizzy & Matte Hair
Let’s talk hair. The conditioner I currently use is from Pantene Pro-V, specifically designed for frizzy and dull hair. It contains Pro-Vitamin B5 and a nutrient-rich blend, but without mineral oils or colourants—which is a rare combo at this price point.
What I love most? You can actually leave it in after rinsing to use it as a regenerating cream, and it doesn’t weigh your hair down or make it greasy.
For someone like me, who has always battled frizz, this is hands down the best formula I’ve tried so far. Bonus points for the delicate, clean scent that lingers just enough.
🎨 Hair Powder for Silver Roots
Let’s talk hair. The conditioner I currently use is from Pantene Pro-V, specifically designed for frizzy and dull hair. It contains Pro-Vitamin B5 and a nutrient-rich blend, but without mineral oils or colourants—which is a rare combo at this price point.
What I love most? You can actually leave it in after rinsing to use it as a regenerating cream, and it doesn’t weigh your hair down or make it greasy.
For someone like me, who has always battled frizz, this is hands down the best formula I’ve tried so far. Bonus points for the delicate, clean scent that lingers just enough.
What I love:
- It’s safe, quick to apply, and effective
- It comes in several shades, so you’ll easily find your match
- It’s affordable, especially compared to other brands charging over £30 for the same amount of product
What really convinced me, though, is the strategic coverage it gives me. My silver hair is mostly concentrated at my temples and a tiny patch on the crown of my head. I couldn’t justify going to a salon and paying for a full-head colour job just for those small areas—it felt absurd.
Also… I’ve never been good with salon appointments. I don’t know why, it must be genetic. Regular anything has never been my style! This powder gives me flexibility, confidence, and savings—both in time and money.
🌸 Phytorelax Laboratories Cleansing & Toning Milk
This 2-in-1 cleansing milk and toner by the Italian brand Phytorelax Laboratoires is a brilliant option for those of us who want an efficient, gentle skincare step at the end of the day.
Suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive, it removes makeup thoroughly while leaving my skin clean, soft, and toned.
It’s enriched with rice oil and vitamin E, which both help prevent signs of ageing and shield the skin from daily environmental stress.
But what truly makes it special to me is the Bach Flowers formula and its 98% natural-origin ingredients—a gentle, effective blend that feels luxurious without being fussy.
Above All: A Few Genuine Rules That Never Fail
I know this might sound a little old-fashioned, but sometimes, the simplest wisdom is the most powerful. Here are three “granny-approved” habits I’ve learned to never underestimate, especially after 40:
Drink water.
Not juices. Not sparkling drinks. Just good old plain water.
Hydration supports everything—skin elasticity, detoxification, energy levels—and the older we get, the more important it becomes.
Move your body.
Whether it’s a proper workout three times a week or just a 30-minute brisk walk each day, movement is the best tonic for both body and mood.
It boosts circulation, enhances your glow, and helps maintain muscle tone—especially around the jawline, thighs, and upper arms.
Breathe consciously.
This one might surprise you, but it’s a practice that changed my relationship with stress—and, unexpectedly, with my skin.
Try to notice how your breath shifts in different moments: shallow when you’re tense, irregular when you’re anxious.
Now flip it—slow it down, make it deep and regular. This signals your nervous system to calm down.
And the calmer you are, the less tension you carry in your facial muscles—which means fewer stress lines and a softer expression over time. Your breath is a powerful anti-ageing ally, trust me on this.
Wrap-Up: Simplicity is the Real Glow-Up
Beauty after 40 isn’t about chasing trends or overflowing bathroom cabinets. It’s about knowing what works, respecting your skin, and feeling good in your own rhythm.
Stick to the essentials that serve you, keep things light and enjoyable, and let your confidence do the rest. Because honestly, consistency and self-respect will outshine any serum.
…beyond everything, whatever your style is, always take good care of yourself, my beautiful souls!
I hope to catch you on here in a few days with new, stylish content for you 😘
XOXO
Agnese K
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