As we age, our skin changes, and by the time we hit 50, many of us begin to notice significant differences in texture, elasticity, and hydration. But here’s the good news: it’s always possible to start a skincare routine to help improve your skin and slow down the visible signs of ageing.
For women over 50 who are just starting out with skincare, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the vast number of products and complicated routines out there. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to break the bank or spend hours on your regimen to see results. A simple, effective skincare routine with just a few key products is all you need to get started on the right foot. It’s not as complicated as it seems, and I’m here to help.
In this post, I’ll guide you through a beginner-friendly morning and evening skincare routine tailored specifically for women over 50. Without getting too complicated, we’ll focus on what your skin needs to stay healthy and glowing at this stage of life. Ready to get started?
Why Skincare Matters After 50
By age 25, your skin starts losing its elasticity, but those changes become more noticeable by the time we’re in our 50s. While we can’t reverse time, a solid skincare routine can improve your skin’s appearance, tackle specific issues like dryness or dark spots, and help slow the signs of ageing.
Many women hesitate to start a skincare routine because they need guidance on where to start or assume they need a long list of expensive products. This isn’t true! You can start with a few essentials and build from there as you get more comfortable. Let’s keep it simple and effective.
Morning Skincare Routine: Protect and Prep
Your morning routine is all about protecting your skin from environmental damage and addressing problem areas. Don’t be put off by the seven steps –follow the guidance, and you’ll be fine.
- Cleanser
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any grime or sweat that has built up overnight. Foaming cleansers can strip the skin, so opt for something more nourishing, like a balm cleanser, cream, or milk texture. You can even double cleanse for an extra deep clean, using a flannel or microfiber towel to remove all the product – this step isn’t essential.
- Exfoliation (Toner)
Gone are the days of harsh scrubs. Now, exfoliation is gentler and more effective. Chemical exfoliants are ideal for removing dead skin cells and stimulating skin turnover without causing damage.
Use glycolic acid if you have dry skin
Salicylic acid is good for oily or acne-prone skin.
This step helps brighten your complexion and allows the rest of your products to absorb better.
- Eye Cream
The delicate skin around your eyes is one of the first places to show signs of ageing. Whether you’re dealing with puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines, apply your eye cream next. It should always go on before your serums and moisturisers.
- Vitamin C Serum
A Vitamin C serum is a must for women over 50. It helps brighten dull skin, stimulates collagen production, and protects against environmental damage. Start with a low percentage (around 10%) and work up to 20% as your skin gets used to it. Stick with with something gentle, like sodium ascorbyl phosphate, to avoid irritation.
- Targeted Serum
Next, use a serum that tackles your primary skin concern. Serums are where the active ingredients work their magic:
– Niacinamide for sun damage, blemishes, or dark spots
– Peptides to boost elasticity and reduce wrinkles
– Hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate dry skin
Start with one serum, apply it regularly, and observe how your skin responds before adding more to your routine.
- Moisturiser
A moisturiser is non-negotiable. It creates a protective barrier, locking in hydration and helping your skin stay plump and smooth. Choose one suited to your skin type – normal, dry, oily, or combination.
- Sunscreen
The final and most critical step is sunscreen. The sun is one of the primary culprits behind skin ageing, so this step cannot be skipped. Choose a dedicated facial sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Don’t rely on moisturisers or makeup containing SPF as they don’t provide enough protection.
Evening Skincare Routine: Repair and Renew
Your evening routine focuses on renewing your skin after a day of environmental exposure and prepping it for repair while you sleep.
- Double Cleanse
It’s a good idea to double cleanse to thoroughly remove makeup, pollutants, and the day’s grime at night. Start with a balm cleanser to melt away makeup, then follow up with a more nourishing cleanse using an oil-based cleanser (or use your balm one again).
- Retinoid (Vitamin A)
Retinoids are the gold standard in anti-ageing. They help increase cell turnover, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin texture. Start with a gentle retinoid like retinaldehyde, which is less irritating than traditional retinol but just as effective. Introduce it slowly to avoid irritation, and always follow the instructions on the product.
An excellent option for beginners is Medik8, which offers different strengths to help ease you into retinoid use. Alternatively, try Geek and Gorgeous A-Game 10, which has soothing ingredients to minimise irritation.
- Eye Cream
As with your morning routine, apply eye cream next to hydrate and protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
- Night Cream or Oil
Your evening moisturiser should be heavier than your daytime one, focusing on deep hydration. Look for a night cream specifically designed for overnight use, or try a facial oil for an extra layer of moisture.
Extra Tips
– Always take your products down to your neck and chest—these areas age too!
– Patch test new serums to ensure your skin doesn’t react negatively.
– Be patient! Skincare is a long-term game, and the results will come with consistency.
Remember, skincare is not just about improving your appearance – it’s a form of self-care. Taking the time to care for your skin can be a peaceful and rewarding part of your daily routine. So, let’s start this skincare journey together and see where it takes you.
Even if you’re starting out with skincare in your 50s, you can still achieve glowing, healthy skin with the right routine. The basics work, and with patience and consistency, you’ll see results. Trust the process!
Ready to start your skincare journey?
Share your thoughts or ask any questions in the comments below!