30 or 40 years old? The exact formula for looking younger and staying that way

Have you passed the age of 30 and are starting to notice the first signs of skin aging? Good news: with a tailored skincare routine and a few simple steps, you can truly become an «expert» in prevention. In this article, discover three essential tips for taking care of your skin and preserving its radiance, whatever your age.
1. Focus on antioxidants
Why antioxidants are essential
With age, our skin becomes more prone to oxidative stress, a phenomenon that accelerates the formation of wrinkles and dark spots. Antioxidants (vitamins C and E, niacinamide, plant extracts, etc.) help neutralize the free radicals produced throughout the day. In addition, they work in synergy with sun protection to better defend the skin against UV rays.
Which antioxidants to choose based on your skin type
- Skin prone to redness
Turn to the Centella Asiatica, rich in active ingredients (asiaticoside, madecassoside, etc.) with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be found in toning lotions (e.g. Madagascar Centella Toning Toner by Skin 1004) or serums (e.g., Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule by Cosrx, Purito Centella Serum, or even HaruHaru Anti-Dark Spot Gel Serum). - Skin prone to adult acne
Visit green tea is an excellent sebum regulator. You can incorporate it into your routine by using lotions rich in green tea extracts (e.g., Green Tea Toner by Benton).
If you prefer more «traditional» ingredients, the niacinamide (often combined with zinc) is a valuable asset. It can be found in affordable serums (e.g., Niacinamide + Zinc by The Ordinary, SVR Bulb B). - Skin affected by dark spots
Excerpts from fermented rice contain multiple phenolic acids (including ferulic acid) and kojic acid, which are effective in targeting melanogenesis. An example: Haruharu Black Rice Toner.
For more traditional assets, favor derivatives of vitamin C : they even out the complexion and contribute to collagen production (e.g. C-Tetra E.F. by Theramid, Typology Radiance Serum). - Skin in search of anti-aging
All of the antioxidants mentioned above already have anti-aging properties. However, you may opt for ginseng (e.g., ginseng lotions or essences) or the pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) in the form of serums (e.g., C15 Super Booster by Paula’s Choice, C Firma by Drunk Elephant, or the economical version of Geek & Gorgeous).
The key move
Apply an antioxidant serum to clean skin every morning before your sunscreen to maximize its benefits.
2. Never skip the sunscreen
Daily protection
UV rays are one of the main causes of skin aging, responsible for wrinkles, spots, and even certain types of skin cancer. Protecting your skin every day is therefore essential, even if you are not going outside for long or if the weather is overcast.
Distinguishing between SPF included in makeup and «real» sunscreen
Some makeup bases or CC creams contain SPF, but their protection is often insufficient. For optimal protection, apply first. a dedicated sunscreen (SPF 30 to 50) before applying your foundation.
It's never too late to get started
Whether you are 30, 40, 50, or older, it is never too late to incorporate sunscreen into your routine. The benefits of good protection can be felt at any age, both for the beauty of the skin and for the prevention of skin cancer.
3. Exfoliate intelligently
The role of exfoliation
Regular but moderate exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that cause dullness and uneven texture. By stimulating cell renewal, you will regain smoother, more radiant skin.
Key assets
- Salicylic acid (BHA) : Ideal for skin prone to acne (including adult acne) and blackheads. It penetrates the pores to cleanse them deeply, while also having an anti-inflammatory effect.
Example: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting BHA Exfoliating Lotion. - Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) Like glycolic or lactic acid, they are water-soluble and act on the surface to smooth the skin texture, boost collagen production, and reduce pigmentation spots.
Example: The Ordinary's glycolic acid solution (pH 3.6).
How often?
Start with once or twice a week, then adjust according to your skin's tolerance. Excessive exfoliation can cause irritation and redness, so listen to your skin.
LED masks are also a useful addition to your prevention routine. This phototherapy technology uses different wavelengths (blue, red, infrared, etc.) to target specific issues: blue light helps fight acne by acting on the bacteria responsible for blemishes, while red light stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity. A few minutes of use several times a week is often enough to feel the benefits; however, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and don't neglect the essential steps (antioxidants, sun protection, moderate exfoliation) that form the basis of an effective anti-aging routine.
In a nutshell
- Antioxidants : Apply a serum tailored to your needs (redness, acne, dark spots, wrinkles) every morning before your moisturizer and sunscreen.
- Sun cream Apply daily, winter and summer, to prevent signs of aging and protect your skin from skin cancer.
- Controlled exfoliation Choose a suitable exfoliating acid (BHA, AHA, etc.) and use it at the right frequency to maintain a radiant complexion without damaging the skin.
At age 30, skin changes begin to become noticeable, but it's never too late to adopt good habits. With a consistent and regular skincare routine, you give your skin every chance to stay radiant and healthy, both now and in the future. So, are you ready to take the plunge into «maximum prevention»? Take care of yourself!


