I'm over 40 and recognized for my radiant, healthy skin—here are 23 skincare essentials that I adore and recommend.

      As someone passionate about beauty and now in my 40s, my primary goal is to engage with readers in their 20s and 30s to clarify what life and beauty can be like beyond 40. As a mother of grown children and a single mom for much of my life, I bring a unique perspective. Being a Black woman managing my own business and juggling various roles, I frequently encounter negative narratives about aging, especially regarding beauty. My aim is to be a source of optimism, positivity, and inspiration—offering a message of "life is good on this side of 40."

      My journey into skincare and the beauty industry began later in life, around my mid-30s. I experienced a transformative moment when I committed to improving my overall well-being, which included how I cared for my hair and skin. Emerging from a period of depression where my hair, skin, mental health, and physical condition all suffered, I found that focusing on beauty revitalized my spirit—acting as a form of therapy. I established morning and evening routines for skincare and hair that evolved gradually into the rituals I follow as a 47-year-old.

      In today's fast-paced world, women often stretch themselves too thin. However, when I enter my bathroom and shut the door, I create a clear boundary for self-care, even if it’s just for five or ten minutes. This time has been crucial for my healing process. I truly believe that a consistent shower, haircare, and skincare routine work harmoniously in a therapeutic way. (And if these routines help you look stunning, that is a bonus!)

      While I do not aim to dictate a specific regimen, my years of trying countless products have allowed me to find what works best for me. Now, my morning and evening skincare routines are well established, and I'm often asked about my favorite products and tips. For my inaugural story as a Who What Wear editor in residence, I chose to focus on skincare. Below, you’ll find my top recommendations in every category, from my go-to face creams and cleansers to those extra products I consider the finishing touch to any stellar routine. Keep reading, and I hope you enjoy it!

      **Cleansers**

      **Alpyn**

      Hydrating Cold Cream Cleanser With Vitamin C & Juneberry

      I adore using a creamy cleanser in the morning, and currently, I am captivated by this one from Alpyn. It features tiny exfoliating particles that effectively remove any leftover SPF or sweat after my early workouts. It’s divine—I love it!

      **iS Clinical**

      Cleansing Complex

      This is another fantastic cleanser that I include in my morning lineup. It’s always a staple in my shower.

      **Sulwhasoo**

      Gentle Cleansing Foam

      I have a particular fondness for this gentle foaming cleanser by Sulwhasoo. As someone with oily skin, cleansing is essential for me. Some may skip morning cleansing, but I find that if I do, I end up with more bumps and clogged pores.

      **Essences & Toners**

      **La Mer**

      The Essential Tonic

      Following cleansing, I prefer to use a balancing toner or essence. This one from La Mer is a bit of an investment, but it’s a formula I will always love and recommend.

      **House of Dohwa**

      Gentle Rice Bran Toner

      This toner from House of Dohwa feels like a refreshing splash on my face. I believe that using an essence or toner prepares the skin perfectly for the next steps in my routine.

      **Serums**

      **Tatcha**

      The Longevity Skin Strength & Age Delay Serum

      I have been using this new serum from Tatcha, which is milky, hydrating, and has a lovely texture. It’s truly a beautiful product!

      **Lancôme**

      Genifique Ultimate Serum

      I also must mention the Advanced Genifique Ultimate Serum by Lancôme. It’s lightweight yet wonderfully moisturizing. Depending on the season and my skin’s condition, both this serum and the Tatcha one provide such hydration that a moisturizer feels more like an extra step than a necessity.

      **Daytime Eye Creams**

      **Shiseido**

      Benefiance Wrinkle Smoothing Eye Cream

      This is my must-have eye cream—it's fantastic. As I age, eye cream has become essential for me. I prefer one that is rich but not overwhelmingly so. I’m not sure what magic Shiseido adds to this formula, but it’s remarkable. I just ran out and immediately went to repurchase it.

      **RoC**

      Multi Correxion Vitamin C Eye Balm Stick

      This product is significant for me and is a key component of my makeup routine. It’s a brightening vitamin C balm that I love in a convenient stick format, applied after SPF and before makeup. What’s amazing is that it helps to prevent my concealer from creasing, allowing my under-eye area to look fresh and smooth even hours later.