Top Dermatologist-Approved Skincare Routine for Indian Women over 40

Ever heard about collagen? Collagen is a protein that keeps your skin plump, but by the time you hit your 40s, the collagen starts to decline much faster. Not just that, hormonal changes, pollution and even years of exposure to the sun starts catching up as well.
A Delhi-based dermatologist, Dr. Rashmi Sarkar explains,“ Think of collagen as a scaffolding for your face, once it weakens, everything begins to sag bit by bit.”
When we talk about Indian women in particular, high humidity due to hot summers or the increased screen time only add to the challenges such as hyper-pigmentation, dullness and dryness.
Here’s is a simple yet effective 4-step morning skincare routine to give that ready to-go glow if followed properly and consistently-

1. Gentle Cleanser- Firstly, swap all those harsh foaming facewash with a gentle and hydrating cleanser. Pro Tip: Soap-free cleanser keeps your skin barrier intact.
2. Vitamin C serum- Next, adding Vitamin C to your skincare acts as a shield against pollution and stress. It also helps in skin-brightening and reducing those stubborn spots. Use it regularly for 3 months and you won’t even need to use filters anymore.
3. Light moisturizer- Using a light moisturizer, preferably the one with hyaluronic acid helps in hydrating your skin, smoothening your fine lines and improving skin’s elasticity.
4. Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)- Last and the most important step is applying sunscreen. Let’s just say this one’s non-negotiable as backed up by Dr. Jaishree Sharad, a Mumbai’s Celebrity Dermatologist, “ Sunscreen is the best anti-aging cream. Period.” And Yes, even if you’re indoors, sunscreen is a must.

A good day starts the night before. Here’s a simple yet relaxing skin care night routine you can follow to end your day peacefully to wake up refreshed the next morning-

1. Double Cleanse- The first step is to remove all the makeup or sunscreen with the help of micellar water or an oil cleanser, followed by a mild wash.
2. Retinol- Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative known as the gold standard for anti-aging because it helps in smoothening out fine lines as well as boosting the collagen. Important Tip: Remember to go slow, just use it twice a week at first.
3. Barrier-Strengthening serums- Using serums like Niacinamide and peptides in your routine helps to calm your skin while reducing hyper-pigmentation.
4. Rich night creams- The last step before you end your night-skincare routine is to apply a nourishing cream that helps in overnight skin repair by locking all the elements in place.

Where morning and night skincare routines help in keeping your skin healthy, weekly care helps out just as much. It assists in giving your skin that much needed extra boosts. Here’s what you can do-

1. Exfoliation- The secret in keeping your skin youthful is by exfoliating it once or twice a week with AHAs like glycolic acid or lactic acid. It helps in removing dead skin cells, improving the skin texture and reducing uneven tones.
2. Hydration- Just like your body craves water, so does your skin. A hydrating mask is the perfect choice when restoring the moisture levels of your skin. They are the quickest way of getting that instant and refreshing glow.

Above mentioned are all dermatologists approved and suggested routines but that’s just not it. Dermatologists explain that these skincare products can only do so much, what matters the most is your lifestyle. Proper hydration, consumption of anti-oxidant rich foods like spinach, berries and walnuts, getting quality sleep and proper stress management plays a vital role in achieving healthy and radiant skin for Indian women above 40. Another important thing to note here is that you must limit smoking and alcohol consumption as it eventually dehydrates your skin resulting in increased symptoms of skin aging.
We all know that aging is inevitable but looking tired and dull is not. In your 40s, it’s your choice: either you nurture your skin with proper care or let it reflect the signs of neglect. Your 40s can be a turning point for your skin if you simply make the right choices to make it happen. Don’t chase for that 20-year old skin, instead aim for the healthiest, most confident version of yourself. As said by dermatologists- “Your skin is your longest relationship- invest in it daily!”

Discover expert advice and the latest updates in Skin Care, Hair Care, Wellness, Dermatology, and more at Stay Young guide to lasting beauty and holistic health!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best skincare routine for Indian women over 40?
   A simple routine with a gentle cleanser, Vitamin C serum, light moisturizer, and daily sunscreen in the morning, followed by retinol, barrier serums, and a rich night cream at night works best.
2. Which anti-aging products are recommended for women above 40 in India?
   Dermatologists recommend Vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen as essential anti-aging skincare products.
3. How can Indian women reduce wrinkles and fine lines after 40?
   Using retinol, sunscreen, and hydrating serums consistently, along with a healthy lifestyle, helps reduce wrinkles and maintain youthful skin.
4. Is sunscreen necessary for women over 40 even indoors?
   Yes, dermatologists emphasize that sunscreen is the best anti-aging product and should be applied daily, indoors or outdoors.
5. How often should women over 40 exfoliate their skin?
   Exfoliating once or twice a week with gentle AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid helps remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.