Welcome to a comprehensive guide to elevating your beauty routine after 40!
As we gracefully embrace this stage of life, it’s essential to curate a skincare and makeup regimen that not only enhances our natural beauty but also addresses the evolving needs of our skin. In this article, I’ll unveil an array of tried-and-true daily skincare and makeup products that have earned their spot as top favorites in my beauty arsenal.
From organic oils that defy aging to makeup essentials that accentuate our features, this curated selection is tailored to empower and embolden the modern, confident woman.
Join me on this journey to discover the transformative power of an effective beauty routine designed for the fabulous over-40s.
Let’s start with the basics!
Lots of people unfortunately ignore that our skin is indeed the largest organ of the human body, serving as a protective barrier between our internal organs and the outside world.
Overall, the skin plays a crucial role in protecting our body, regulating various physiological processes, and contributing to our overall health and well-being. Taking care of our skin through proper hygiene, sun protection, hydration, and nutrition is essential for maintaining its health and function.
Before I start describing my skin care routine, I want to share with you some key points about this amazing organ:
Function
The skin has several vital functions, including protection, sensation, regulation, and secretion. It acts as a barrier to prevent harmful substances, pathogens, and UV radiation from entering the body. Additionally, the skin contains nerve endings that allow us to sense touch, temperature, and pain. It also helps regulate body temperature through sweat production and blood vessel dilation or constriction.
Layers
The skin consists of three main layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue (also known as the hypodermis). The epidermis is the outermost layer and provides waterproofing and protection. The dermis contains blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and nerve endings. The subcutaneous tissue is made up of fat and connective tissue and provides insulation and padding.
Cell Types
The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes, which produce the protein keratin—a key component of skin, hair, and nails. Other cell types in the epidermis include melanocytes (which produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color) and Langerhans cells (which help protect against infection). The dermis contains fibroblasts (which produce collagen and elastin, providing structural support and elasticity) and various immune cells.
Skin Renewal
The skin is constantly renewing itself through a process called desquamation. New cells are produced in the deepest layer of the epidermis and gradually migrate to the surface, where they are shed. This turnover process helps maintain the integrity and health of the skin.
Variations and unicity
Skin varies in thickness, color, texture, and sensitivity depending on factors such as genetics, age, ethnicity, and environmental influences. For example, individuals with fair skin have less melanin and are more susceptible to sun damage, while those with darker skin tones have more melanin and are less prone to sunburn but still at risk for other types of skin damage.
Yeah…all the above-mentioned miracles happen every second, every day in this wonderful organ named skin. That’s why it is so important that we take good care of it!
My minimalist skincare routine and makeup
As a woman navigating the beautiful complexities of life over 40, my journey has been a tapestry woven with experiences, lessons, and above all, a profound appreciation for the skin I’m in. Today, I invite you to join me on a voyage through my daily skincare ritual—a harmonious blend of simplicity, purity, and the gentle touch of nature.
In a world teeming with beauty potions promising overnight miracles, I’ve found solace in the embrace of natural and organic products. From the dew-kissed petals of a rose to the nourishing embrace of aloe vera gel, my skincare arsenal is a testament to the transformative power of Mother Nature herself. Each product carefully chosen not just for its efficacy, but for its commitment to honoring the delicate balance of my skin.
But let me be clear—my approach to beauty is one rooted in minimalism.
While some may revel in layers of makeup and elaborate routines, I find beauty in the subtle nuances of simplicity. A touch of tinted moisturizer here, a swipe of mascara there—my makeup routine is a reflection of my belief that true radiance emanates from within.
Natural and organic products for the beauty routine
Make it in 3 easy steps
As I usually do not have so much time to spend for doing my makeup; I know women that spend 30 minutes or even more every day for this practice, but this is not my case. Also, I honestly like the look of my skin and my face, so I don’t have any reason for “covering” everything or for making my face almost unrecongnisable.
With this being said, with one eye to sustainability and the other one to minimalism, here is how I look after my skin now that I’m over 40:
Cleansing:
I start my beauty routine by gently cleansing my skin to remove any impurities accumulated throughout the day or night.
This is a very important, fundamental step when it comes to skin care: always choose a cleanser suited for your skin type—whether it’s oily, dry, combination, or sensitive—and massage it onto damp skin using circular motions.
Organic Olive Oil Soap
The organic olive oil soap gently cleanses the skin while maintaining its natural moisture balance. It effectively removes impurities and makeup without stripping the skin of its essential oils. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for mature skin. It helps to nourish and hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.
After applying the soap, I rinse my skin thoroughly with lukewarm water to reveal a clean and refreshed complexion.
I buy this organic soap in a local shop, but you can find very good, organic olive oil soaps in any Country.
Alternatively, I suggest you try out the worldwide-known Aleppo soap , another great, organic product if you struggle with (very) sensitive skin. This one I purchased in the past on Amazon is 100% organic, made from 85% olive oil and 15% laurel oil.
Rose Water
Rose water (the one I use is from Robert’s & Co., a historic cosmetic firm from Florence) is a natural toner that helps to soothe and hydrate mature skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and irritation.
Using rose water as a part of your daily beauty routine can help maintain the skin’s pH balance and control excess oil production. Additionally, its gentle fragrance provides a refreshing and uplifting experience.
Nourishing
After cleansing, it’s time to nourish my skin with replenishing ingredients that promote hydration and vitality. I usually apply a nourishing serum or facial oil enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, and hydrating agents to lock in moisture and restore my skin’s natural balance.
I gently pat the product onto my skin, focusing on areas prone to dryness or fine lines, and allow it to absorb fully before proceeding to the next step. In my particular case, I need to apply a more nourishing cream or oil in the area around my mouth, which tends to be very dry and to dehydrate pretty quickly; while on my cheek, forehead, and chin I have a rather mixed, oily kind of skin, which needs lighter nourishing products like serums and gels.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. It penetrates the skin easily, providing hydration and nourishment. For mature skin, aloe vera gel can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve skin elasticity.
The gel I use is from a French cosmetic firm, and I find it one of the best I’ve ever treid in the last years.
Beeswax-Based Day Cream
The beeswax-based day cream provides intense hydration and forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss throughout the day. It contains natural emollients that help soften and smooth the skin, making it an ideal choice for mature skin that requires extra care and nourishment.
I use this cream as an extra care for the area around my mouth, which tends to be very dry.
31-Herbs Oil for Nighttime
The 31-herbs oil is a luxurious and deeply nourishing treatment for mature skin. It is formulated to improve skin elasticity, promote cell regeneration, and reduce the signs of aging. When used at night, it works to rejuvenate the skin while you sleep, leaving it radiant and revitalized in the morning. Its multi-purpose use for hair nourishment adds an extra layer of convenience to your beauty routine.
The interesting thing about such organic products is that they are often suitable for multiple purposes: this oil, for instance, works amazingly on my hair and tired legs, as well!
Deep Cleaning and special treatment Once a Week
Once a week, I love to treat my skin to a deep-cleansing session with a high-quality peeling product. Peels help exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover, leaving my skin smoother, brighter, and more refined.
Choose a gentle yet effective peeling product suited for your skin type, and follow the instructions carefully. Apply the peel to clean, dry skin, avoiding the delicate eye area, and leave it on for the recommended duration before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Follow up with a soothing toner and hydrating moisturizer to replenish your skin’s moisture barrier and seal in the benefits of the peel!
Organic Charcoal Powder
Organic charcoal powder is a versatile product that effectively detoxifies the skin, drawing out impurities and excess oil. Its gentle exfoliating properties help to remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin smooth and refreshed.
Additionally, it can be used for body and teeth care, providing a holistic approach to your beauty and wellness routine.
Don’t get scared by getting black if you use this powder for your weekly facial (or body) peeling: you’ll be amazed by the result!
Help yourself with a cotton pad to fully remove the charcoal powder from your skin, then apply your rose water (or whatever other toner you like) and your nourishing cream/serum/oil (depending on your skin type).
Revitalizing Vitamin C Serum
Daily antioxidant treatment with 55% Vitamin C to prevent and fight signs of aging With 55% pure active Vitamin C, it prevents and combats the effects of free radicals and daily skin aggressions, giving brightness to the skin and reducing wrinkles.
The content of each ampoule is enough to cover two applications. I usually apply it once in the morning and once in the evening, which means one package (20 ampoules) will last you 40 days.
To be fully honest, I didn’t see -after a full treatment- a radical difference in my deepest wrinkles (for which the solution would rather be Botox or plastic surgery…hahaha), but I did in my finest ones around my eyes. So for the price, it’s okay.
Minimalist Makeup
When it comes to minimalist makeup, quality, sustainability, and affordability are key factors. Here are the products I’ve been using for my minimal makeup routine:
- Mascara by Pupa:
Pupa’s mascara is designed to give your lashes extra volume and length without clumping or smudging. Its lightweight formula ensures comfortable wear throughout the day, and the precision wand allows for easy application, defining each lash for a natural yet impactful look.
This is the only mascara I can wear having very sensitive eyes. It feels very comfortable even if you wear contacts. My nuance is black.
- Soft Mat Liquid Foundation by Astra:
Astra’s soft mat liquid foundation provides buildable coverage with a velvety smooth finish. Its lightweight texture blends seamlessly into the skin, evening out the complexion and minimizing the appearance of imperfections (if any). The soft mat formula ensures a natural, shine-free look that lasts (and it does last).
The nuance I chose for my skin tone is called “sand”, nr. 03.
- Liquid Blush by Astra:
Astra’s liquid blush is a versatile product that adds a natural flush of color to both the lips and cheeks. Its lightweight and blendable formula allows for easy application, giving a dewy and fresh finish. The buildable nature of the blush enables you to achieve a subtle, rosy glow or a more intense pop of color, depending on your preference.
It’s also longlasting and no-transfer.
The nuance I own is nr. 03, called “that girl”; it’s perfect if your complexion is a latin one that tends to olive-ish.
- Brown Eye Pencil:
The brown eye pencil (also by Astra), reminiscent of kajal, is perfect for defining and accentuating the eyes with a soft, natural look. Its creamy texture glides on smoothly, allowing for precise application and effortless blending. Whether used to create a subtle, everyday look or a more defined, smoky effect, the brown eye pencil adds depth and dimension to the eyes.
One thing I love about this pencil is that its formulation is made with +90% of natural ingredients.
These minimalist makeup products by Italian brands Pupa and Astra offer quality and versatility, allowing me to enhance my natural features with a touch of elegance and simplicity, and they also allow me to do something good for the environment.
Conclusion
Well, my beautiful ladies, as we reach the conclusion of this little journey through the realm of radiant beauty over 40, I’m reminded of the profound connection between simplicity, sustainability, and self-care. In embracing a minimalist approach to skincare and makeup, we not only honour the beauty of less but also recognize the importance of sustainability in our daily rituals.
Each product I’ve shared with you today—each gentle cleanser, nourishing oil or serum, and subtle makeup essential—is not just a tool for enhancing outer beauty but a testament to my commitment to sustainability.
For me, sustainability is not an afterthought but an integral part of my skincare philosophy—a reflection of my reverence for the planet and its precious resources.
In choosing natural and organic products, I not only prioritize the health and vitality of my skin but also minimize the environmental impact of my beauty routine. From eco-friendly packaging to ethically sourced ingredients, every aspect of my skincare and makeup collection is thoughtfully curated with sustainability in mind.
But being sustainable goes beyond the products themselves—it’s about the choices we make every day, the actions we take to reduce waste, and the conscious effort to tread lightly on this beautiful planet we call home. It’s about embracing the beauty of less, cultivating a deeper connection to the world around us, and recognizing that true radiance begins with a mindful heart and a gentle touch.
So as we bid farewell to this journey, let us carry forward the lessons learned—the importance of simplicity, the power of natural beauty, and the beauty of doing something good for our planet.
May we continue to cherish and nurture ourselves and the world around us, one mindful step at a time.
Here’s to radiant beauty, sustainability, and the timeless grace of embracing the beauty that lies within.
With love and light,
B&TG