The skin care you must start using in your 40s and beyond for a youthful glow - 'best for your skin!'

How your skin ages has a lot to do with genetics, diet and lifestyle, but the right products can help make you look years younger.A doctor has shared the skin care essentials that can help give you a youthful glow, particularly for those in their 40s, 50s and beyond. One thing women should not skip at this time of their lives is retinoids, according to Dr. Amy Bandy, owner and board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Dr. Bandy, who specialises in dermatology and hair growth.She told GB News: When we enter our 40s and older, using products containing retinoids (over the counter or prescription) such as tretinoin can be very good for us as they create new collagen and will continue to make changes in how smooth your skin feels. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Indeed, a 2022 systematic review of randomised controlled trials found topical tretinoin (a retinoid) significantly improved wrinkles, pigmentation and skin texture in photoaged skin.Many of the studies focused on middle-aged women, where collagen loss and visible ageing tend to accelerate. Researchers concluded that retinoids stimulate new collagen formation and remain one of the most evidence-based topical anti-ageing treatments.However, these products can be harsh, so it is not recommended to use a high dose too soon or to apply the product on younger skin. Dr Bandy also shared the importance of hydrating your skin with a good moisturiser, for plumpness, and opting for vitamin C products, for a brighter complexion.HOW TO LOOK YOUNGER'It's everything!' Avoid make-up mistake that ages women 'instantly' to achieve 'airbrushed glow'Going grey? Hairdresser with 12 years experience shares 'the trick' to keeping ageless locksFacialist shares the overlooked ‘30-minute skin care rule’ for younger-looking skinShe said: Using an antioxidant serum with Vitamin C in the mornings will assist in protecting your skin from damage caused by the environment, plus help lighten your complexion. Also, be sure to wash your face gently, keep your skin hydrated with moisturisers containing ceramide or hyaluronic acid, and do not exfoliate too hard as this will cause more dryness and irritation in the mature skin.Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin to instantly plump the complexion. This helps to minimise the appearance of fine lines.These products form the basis of any anti-ageing routine. However, the number one habit to adopt at any stage of life is applying sunscreen every day, even in winter. THE 13 BEST FACE SUNSCREENS FOR SUMMER 2026 She said: Protecting yourself from the sun on a daily basis is the best habit for your skin. I always tell everyone to use a sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF factor and apply it every morning.But on hot days, don't just apply once and forget about it, the expert warned -if you spend much time outside during the day, you should reapply this product after every two to three hours.As well as honing an anti-ageing skin care routine, forming healthy lifestyle habits will give your complexion another boost. The doctor suggested: Getting about seven to eight hours of sleep each night will support the healing process of your skin, which will reduce the appearance of tiredness. Food-wise, eat foods high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, such as salmon and walnuts, and eat lots of colourful fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidants.Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter