40+ and Fabulous: Skincare and more after 40

Do you find yourself wondering how you made it to {insert age here} already? Yea, same. I'll be 43 years old next month and I swear I was just 25 not too long ago. Nevertheless, we're here and we're going to make the most of this day/year/decade despite its challenges to our skin, bodies, hormones and more.

Today, I'm highlighting the 3 daily habits and skincare I focus on to feel comfortable and confident in my skin/body after 40:

1. My skincare routine. It may change occasionally because, let's be honest, life happens, right? However, I prioritize my essential routine, which includes: cleanser, vitamin C serum, an undereye serum, moisturizer, and tinted SPF in the morning. You can bet I also apply my Thrive mascara and Image Ormedic lip balm too! Double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser, serums, retinol and moisturizer is part of my nighttime routine. On days when I'm on top of things, I might add exfoliation (only when necessary to avoid damaging my skin barrier), blush and bronzer and reapplying my SPF. A facial mask, LED light therapy and using one of the many "anti-aging" devices I've bought could happen at night. Yes, even estheticians sometimes let these gadgets sit unused.

2. Drink water, eat protein, fruit and vegetables. I really try to prioritize this every single day. The only thing that varies is the amount of each that I have. Protein is crucial for our skin and of course keeping our muscle mass as we age. I aim for the recommended amounts of each of these, especially with water (8 glasses/day), but I also have coffee most days too. Not so fun fact: too much caffeine can lead to dehydration in some of us, so be sure to drink 2 cups of water for every caffeinated beverage you consume. It feels like all of this plus staying active should be considered a side job, right?

3. Get dressed. This might sound trivial, but I'm serious. There was a time when I lived in my athletic wear, but not anymore. That's not to say you won't catch me in it, as I do wear it to exercise and clean, but more often than not, if you see me out, I'll be "put together," as people often tell me. I guess you could say I feel my best when I look my best. Admittedly, some people can look great in anything. I'm not one of those people (haha).

   
   

   Tell me something in comments that you do daily that helps you feel your best. You never know who you could help by sharing just one thing!