If you've never had a skincare routine or been loyal to the same brand for years, it's time for a reset.  Just as our outlook on life changes, we all notice skin changes as we age.  The natural ageing process, lifestyle and hormones impact how well our skin ages, meaning that the routine that worked well in your 30's may no longer work.  These changes can knock confidence, and with fillers, filters and a confusing array of skincare solutions out there, it's no wonder many of us feel daunted!  In this blog, I share six simple ways to adapt your skincare routine and get healthy, glowing skin in your 40's.

Spoiler alert: I won't tell you to set an hour aside that you haven't got, for a 10 step routine that you can never remember!  My mission is to help you feel good and have that natural, healthy glow back in your skin without the fuss of a complicated routine.   

What skin changes happen in my 40's?

As we age, skin-tightening collagen and elastin production slows down. Skin-plumping hyaluronic acid diminishes.  Cell turnover slows down, and skin recovers more slowly from inflammation and damage. We may notice our skin becoming dry, thinner and more fragile, or the acne and breakouts we thought we'd left behind in our teenage years may suddenly reappear.  Some of these changes we expect, others may come as a big surprise!  Either way, it's never too late to start caring for your skin.  

Why is my skin changing?

By the time we reach our 40's most of us have begun to notice skin changes, but often this can happen sooner in your 30's or even mid-20's.  We know that genetics and hormones play a leading role in how we age. This is known as intrinsic ageing, the natural-ageing process that we cannot control no matter how well we take care of our bodies. Oestrogen is the hormone that maintains cell turnover and keeps our skin hydrated and plump. However, when oestrogen levels start to dip, the connective tissues that give our skin its strength, 'bounce' and youthful appearance begins to diminish.    

One study found that skin ageing is only 3% genetic, meaning that over 90% of the factors that affect our skin are external - this is known as 'extrinsic ageing'. Stress, poor sleep and nutrition, exposure to UV light and pollution can all lead to premature ageing.  The good news is that we are more in control of these factors, and we can make a difference to how well our skin ages.  

Whenever it happens for you, skin changes can dramatically impact confidence, so it's worth pausing to reassess your skin needs and adapt your routine so that you can feel your very best.  Don't feel daunted, what your skin needs is simplicity. 

"A simple skincare routine that nourishes and protects without disrupting your delicate skin barrier is vital.  You do need to look out for certain ingredients - humectants, antioxidant vitamins, gentle actives and omega fatty acids are your best friends" 

Six ways to adapt your skincare routine today

1. Go slow.  Whether you don't know where to begin or you've felt tempted to overdo it - go slow.  There are a baffling array of skincare choices and complex multi-layered routines that leave you feeling like you need a chemistry degree to care for your skin!  This can be counterproductive, causing damage to skin that is already fragile or reactive.  We need simplicity and balance, and a focus on cleansing, calming inflammation, hydrating and protecting your delicate skin barrier without overwhelming it further.  There's nothing more naturally beautiful than healthy, hydrated and glowing skin.

2. Be present. Take a moment to be conscious and look in the mirror with loving eyes. What are your priorities right now? Do you want a quick routine to fit into a busy morning? Do you want to focus on specific concerns like pigmentation or fine lines? Do you want a soothing evening routine that helps you unwind and sleep better. Consider what would make you feel good. Be kind to yourself, your skincare routine is an opportunity to nourish and nurture you.
     

   

    

3. Cleanse. Even if you have time for nothing else, start your routine with a nourishing cleansing balm. Pamoja's Reset Cleansing Balm is a melting cleanser and makeup remover with Moringa Oil, Carrot Root CO2 and Vitamin E. The omega-rich formula moisturises dry skin, helps to prevent dehydration and inflammation and leaves skin fresh and clean without that tight, uncomfortable feeling. An uplifting aroma and luxurious, buttery texture take the chore out of cleansing. To gently exfoliate the skin and speed up cell turnover, remove the balm with a soft cotton face cloth. You can then follow with a sweep of liquid exfoliator e.g. a mild alpha hydroxy acid that will accelerate the removal of dead skin cells and further brighten dry, dull complexions.     
   
   
   

   Reset Cleansing Balm

   Organic cotton face cloth
   
   

4. Hydrate and moisturise.  When skin feels dry, parched or inflamed,  apply 2 pumps of Replenish Hydrating Serum to face, neck and chest to cool, calm and hydrate your skin and promote and even-toned, dewy glow.  It's rich in antioxidant Niacinamide, prebiotic Ectoin and triple weight hyaluronic acid - to super charge your skincare results.  Replenish is intentionally light, fragrance free and easy to layer between your beautifully aromatic Pamoja favourites. 
   
   
   
   
   A face cream is also a must-have product in your routine. Look for a moisturiser rich in humectants like hyaluronic acid. Pamoja's ultra-light Revive Multi-action Face Cream contains multi-weight plumping hyaluronic acid to keep skin feeling supple and hydrated. Upcycled Raspberry Seed is proven in clinical tests to be a natural emollient which means it increases skin hydration, and gives skin a soft, silky feel.  Collagen boosting Resurrection plant extracts smooth and improve elasticity.  Ectoin Natural helps prevent pigmentation and protects your skin from pollution induced lines and wrinkles.
   
   
   
   Revive Multi-action Face Cream
   
   

5. Boost radiance. Adding a booster oil is always a quick, effective way to bring extra moisture and radiance to your skin.  Pamoja's Restore Radiance Booster soothes, softens and restores essential nutrients to your skin for a more radiant complexion.  Kahai Oil rich in natural retinol vitamin A and antioxidant Pomegranate CO2 help to prevent a loss of elasticity. Just pat a couple of drops into the skin before bed. If you have time, gently massage your skin with upward sweeping movements to leave you feeling radiant and relaxed.  Restore is 100% natural, ultra-light and easily absorbed, and is available with or without essential oils. 
   
   
    Restore Radiance Booster
   
   

6. Protect. Sunscreen is without a doubt one of the most important things you will need to do to protect your skin.  Apply it daily as the last stage of your routine, and wear it all through the year!  If you notice any new moles, or changes in your skin that look unusual, see a doctor straight away.  Early detection is vital.

Finally, however you decide to adapt your routine - be consistent and keep things simple.  It doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Take just a few minutes each day to disconnect from technology and the hustle and bustle of the day to nurture yourself. Think of your skincare routine as a time for mindfulness, time to breathe deeply and slowly and be present with yourself.  Life is crazy, busy enough without adding to your 'to do' list.   Enjoy it!

To find out more about the skincare in this blog, click here, and don't forget you can save £10 when you buy the bundle Reset, Restore and Revive with organic cotton cloth or save £20 when you add Replenish and buy the Ultimate Ritual.

Thanks for reading, love Sarah x 

Pamoja is a high performing natural skincare brand, designed to help you nourish your skin and nurture yourself.  Now with over 220+ five star reviews.  As seen in Vogue, Stylist, Woman's Health. Natural Health Magazine, Top Sante and more.