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Why Your Skin Changes as You Get Older (and What Helps)
As we age, it sometimes seems like our skin changes suddenly. One day, everything feels normal, and the next, we notice dryness, fine lines, tightness, or that our usual products aren't working as well.
If you've ever looked in the mirror and thought, "When did that happen?" you're definitely not alone.
And the good news is, once you understand what's happening, it becomes much easier to look after your skin in a way that actually feels good and embraces where you are now.
Why does our skin start to change
As we move through our 40s and 50s, our skin naturally goes through a few shifts, nothing dramatic, just gentle changes that happen over time.
We produce less collagen.
Collagen keeps our skin firm and bouncy. As we get older, we make less of it, which is why things can start to look a little softer or feel less tight.
Skin renewal slows down.
You know that fresh, healthy glow?
When cell renewal slows, our skin can look a bit dull or tired.
More dryness
Our skin loses moisture more quickly as we age, especially around menopause. This can make lines look deeper than they really are.
Hormones shift
Oestrogen plays a big role in keeping skin smooth and plump. When levels change, our skin often changes too.
Life happens
Sun exposure, stress, less sleep, busy routines, and even the weather all play a part. It's completely normal and part of living a full life. The important thing to remember is this:
Nothing is wrong with your skin, it's just changing, and your routine needs to change a little too.
What actually helps
You don’t need 10 steps or complicated routines.
A few simple habits (and understanding what products actually do) can make such a difference.
1. Use a gentle cleanser
Great options for ageing or dry skin:
Cream cleansers
Milky cleansers
Non-foaming gel cleansers
Micellar water (great for mornings)
Avoid:
Strong foaming cleansers
“Deep cleansing” formulas
Anything that leaves your skin feeling dry
A harsh cleanser is the number one reason skin feels tight and dehydrated.
2. Moisturise with hydrating, supportive ingredients
Look for moisturisers that include gentle, skin-loving ingredients like:
Hyaluronic acid (hydration)
Niacinamide (strengthening + brightening)
Ceramides (skin barrier support)
Antioxidants (daily skin protection)
A good moisturiser helps your skin feel softer, calmer, and more comfortable.
3. Add extra hydration if your skin feels dry
You don’t need lots of products, just choose what fits your day.
Great options include:
Hydrating face mist (quick comfort any time)
Hydrating serum (when skin feels extra thirsty)
These are optional, not essentials, think of them as little boosters for the days you need a bit more.
That's it.
No pressure, no overwhelm, just the basics done well. Consistency with simple steps often brings better results than occasional complicated routines.
A little story from me
I first noticed things changing in my late 40s. One morning, I caught sight of myself in the mirror and saw dark bags under my eyes that I'd never had before, little wrinkles starting to settle in, and my skin just felt so dry.
It wasn't anything dramatic, but I could tell my skin wasn't behaving the same anymore.
Once I stopped trying to fix everything at once and focused on gentle hydration and a simple routine, everything started to feel better. My skin looked fresher, my eyes looked brighter, and I felt more like myself again without doing anything complicated.
Most importantly, I learned to appreciate my skin at this stage of life rather than fighting against it.
I've been using a few Oriflame products because they're gentle, hydrating, and easy to fit into my day. If you're looking for a simple routine to start with, the Novage+ range is a lovely place to explore, especially if your skin feels dry or dull lately. They've made such a difference to how my skin feels day-to-day.
Your next gentle step
If you'd like to explore the products I use or start building a routine that feels right for your skin, you can find everything here on my website.
No pressure, just a little support if you're ready for it. And remember, the best skincare routine is one that makes you feel good and can be consent with.
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