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

      As a beauty lover in my 40s, one of my main hopes is to connect with readers in their 20s and 30s, shedding light on what life and beauty can be like after 40. Having raised adult children and spent much of my life as a single mom, I also balance the challenges of being a Black woman running my own business. There's a lot of negativity surrounding aging, particularly in the beauty sphere, and my aim is to provide a message of hope, positivity, and inspiration—showing that life beyond 40 isn’t bad at all.

      My journey into skincare and beauty began later in life when I was in my mid-30s. I had a transformative moment where I committed to improving my overall well-being. My approach to skincare and haircare became crucial to that change. Emerging from a period of depression, my hair and skin had suffered, and I was physically frail. Amidst all the challenges, turning to beauty revitalized me and became a source of healing. Through beauty, I learned self-care and gradually formed morning and evening rituals that define my current skincare practices as a 47-year-old.

      In today's world, women often stretch themselves too thin. However, when I enter the bathroom and close the door, I establish a clear boundary that signals my time for self-care, even if it’s just for five or ten minutes. This routine fosters genuine healing. I truly believe that a consistent shower, haircare, and skincare routine work together in a therapeutic way. If it helps you look fantastic, that’s a bonus! I avoid being prescriptive, but over time, I've had the chance to try a multitude of products and routines. My morning and evening skincare routines are now set, and I regularly receive questions about my choices and tips. For my debut story as an editor in residence at Who What Wear, I’ll delve into skincare. Below, you'll find my favorite products across various categories—from trustworthy face creams and cleansers to delightful extras that complement a great routine. Keep reading, and I hope you find it enjoyable.

      **Cleansers**

      **Alpyn Hydrating Cold Cream Cleanser with Vitamin C & Juneberry**

      In the morning, I love a creamy cleanser, and right now, I’m really into this one from Alpyn. It features tiny exfoliation particles that effectively remove any leftover SPF or sweat after my morning workout. It feels heavenly!

      **iS Clinical Cleansing Complex**

      This is another fantastic cleanser that I alternate in my morning routine. It’s a staple in my shower.

      **Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam**

      I also have a soft spot for Sulwhasoo’s gentle foaming cleanser. With my oily skin, cleansing is essential. I know some people skip morning cleansing, but if I do, I start to notice more bumps and clogged pores.

      **Essences & Toners**

      **La Mer The Essential Tonic**

      Post-cleansing, I prefer using a balancing toner or an essence. This one from La Mer is an investment, but I’ll always love it and recommend it.

      **House of Dohwa Gentle Rice Bran Toner**

      This toner from House of Dohwa feels like a refreshing splash on the face. I believe in using an essence or toner to prep the skin for subsequent steps.

      **Serums**

      **Tatcha The Longevity Skin Strength & Age Delay Serum**

      I’m currently using this milky, hydrating serum from Tatcha, which has a lovely glide to it. It’s truly beautiful!

      **Lancôme Genifique Ultimate Serum**

      I must also mention the Advanced Genifique Ultimate Serum from Lancôme. It’s lightweight yet incredibly moisturizing. Depending on the season and my skin's needs, this serum alongside the Tatcha one is so hydrating that I often don’t feel the need to add moisturizer—more like a bonus!

      **Daytime Eye Creams**

      **Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Smoothing Eye Cream**

      This is my go-to eye cream. It’s wonderful and has become essential as I age. I want a cream that offers richness without being overly heavy. I recently ran out of this and quickly went to restock.

      **RoC Multi Correxion Vitamin C Eye Balm Stick**

      This is another essential, and I view it as a major part of my makeup routine. It’s a brightening vitamin C balm in a convenient stick form that I apply after SPF and before makeup. The best part? It prevents my concealer from creasing. My under-eyes look fresh and smooth for hours after application. I’ve got my friends and daughters in their 20s hooked on this product, which is both affordable and available in drugstores and Walmart.

      **Nighttime Eye Creams**

      **Shani Darden Skin Care Intensive Eye Renewal Cream with Firming Peptides**

      This reliable eye cream from Shani Darden