Your 40s represent a transformation (don’t let anyone suggest otherwise). With age comes wisdom and self-confidence, but it's also a period where self-care can be overlooked. Good news: it doesn't have to be! Adopting the right beauty strategies during this decade can make you feel more vibrant than ever.
As we mature, nurturing our bodies and souls becomes crucial. Engage in activities that resonate with you. Spend quality time with loved ones instead of scrolling on your phone. Establish a beauty regimen that empowers you to present your best self. Prioritizing these elements of self-care is essential as we grow older.
Featured image from our interview with a well-known model by Michelle Nash.
Essential Beauty Tips from Stylish Women
Your daily routines should reflect who you are, especially when it comes to beauty. This is what we define as 'style': being thoughtful, intentional, and authentically you. For motivation on beauty rituals that enhance both your inner and outer beauty, we’ve compiled tips from some of the most fashionable women.
Begin with a Face Massage
Waking up to a puffy face can be disheartening. A face massage, whether using a gua sha tool or an ice roller, aids lymphatic drainage and sculpts your features. It’s no surprise that many fashionable women kick off their day with a gua sha ritual.
“I start my day with a quick, three-minute gua sha routine using a stainless steel tool. The exact model I adore isn’t available anymore, but a similar one from Isamaya x FaceGym works just as well. Pairing it with Oak Essentials Ritual Oil has been a game-changer for me; I’ve used about ten bottles without any breakouts.” – Diana Cohen, Founder of Crown Affair
“When I feel a bit swollen, I use my Rose Quartz Heart Facial Sculptor for a gua sha massage. It boosts circulation and naturally lifts my face. I also body brush before showering.” – Miranda Kerr, Model and Founder of KORA Organics
“My morning routine includes skincare and face rolling with my Golden Sculpt Face Roller. I strive for consistency because it’s crucial for seeing results.” – Molly Sims, Model and Founder of YSE Beauty
“I’ve incorporated more gua sha, which uses a jade tool for a face massage, providing a subtle sculpting effect. I adore the Gua Sha kit from Wilding that includes a detoxifying oil. It’s stunning.” – Megan O’Neill, Founder of NAYLA
LESSE
$45 at Moda OperandiCURE
$50 at Haven Well WithinExplore Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy, a brief 10-minute routine, can yield significant results. Using red light for your face, body, or hair is a trending innovation for a reason.
“My morning rituals include red light therapy (for both face and body), affirmations via the Superhuman app, and moving my body.” – Mari Llewellyn, Co-Founder of Bloom Nutrition
“I enjoy a red light therapy mask for about 20 minutes before bed while sipping on Moon Juice Magnesi-om.” – Molly Sims, Model and Founder of YSE Beauty
HigherDOSE
$349 at HigherDOSESolawave
4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand
$169 at SolawaveEstablish a Practical Skincare Routine
“Even if you’re a minimalist or never wear makeup, there’s probably a lip balm or face cream you enjoy that makes you feel more comfortable,” said a beauty editor. These women have streamlined their skincare routines into effective, repeatable rituals.
“My morning beauty routine is minimal. I use Japanese Curel face cream, REL cream blush, and Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions mascara.” – Clare Vivier, Founder of Clare V
“I keep it incredibly simple, both morning and night. My skin thrives when I don’t overdo it. Two to three products can work just as well as a full regimen.” – Laurel Pantin, Fashion Writer
“After struggling with cystic acne, I simplified my routine to three or four products and minimal makeup. I cleanse with The Inkey List salicylic cleanser. If my skin feels congested, I’ll use Paula’s Choice BHA liquid exfoliant, but not daily. Then, I apply The Inkey List niacinamide serum.” – Nicole Gibbons, Founder of Clare Paints
“In the morning, I wash my face with MAKE Succulent Skin Wash, followed by MAKE Lactonic and Super Cell Deep Moisture Cream. Applying makeup has become my meditation, enhancing how I feel.” – Carrie Barber, Creative Director and Founder of MAKE Beauty
OSEA
$48 at OSEA MalibuU Beauty
$148 at U BeautyRefine Your Signature Makeup Look
“Most women, regardless of age, prefer to look naturally beautiful,” explains a renowned makeup artist. “They want to appear like the best version of themselves. When women feel good and know they look great, confidence follows.” Many women we admire possess a signature look that boosts their self-esteem.
“I begin with Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation, followed by Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Biscuit, and finish with a bit of MAC blush on my eyelids. I smudge with a MAC mahogany liner and add mascara.” – Liana Levi, Founder of Forma Pilates
“I usually apply tinted moisturizer or light foundation, then a bronzer as blush and eyeshadow. I finish with mascara and brow gel, often styling my hair in an effortless low bun or braid.” – Nicole Gibbons, Founder of Clare Paints
Always Use Sunscreen
Neglecting sunscreen is a major beauty mistake. It can make or break your beauty routine, making it a must-have for those in-the-know.
“Sunscreen is essential. I notice sun spots, especially on the side of my face that faces the car window.” – A well-known beauty founder
“Whenever I go outside, I ensure I wear at least SPF 40.” – Pritika Swarup, Founder of Prakti Beauty
Versed Daily Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++
$19.99 at Versed SkinSummer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30
$36 at Summer FridaysHealthy Hair, Happy Life
No matter what your hairstyle is, maintaining hair health is essential. Here’s how stylish women accomplish this.
“I gently comb my hair with a fine comb and apply Crown Affair Dry Shampoo at the roots for added volume. I finish by twisting and clipping my hair with The Clips, and sometimes apply leave-in conditioner for shape and body. I never leave home without the Crown Affair clip—the best clips out there.” — Diana Cohen, Founder of Crown Affair
“I adore ROZ shampoo and conditioner.” — Odette Annable, Actress
“For hair care, I use either Davines or Kerastase products. One wonderful benefit of pregnancy is how it improves hair and nails! I can wash my hair just once or twice a week, and it still looks terrific. When I have time, I use Christophe Robin’s Cleansing Mask and enjoy Davines’ hair texturizer. I sometimes wear Crown Affair’s green silk scrunchie for a chic touch!” – Roxana Saidi
Crown Affair The Leave-In Conditioner Cream
$48 at Crown Affair$54 at Crown AffairEssential: A Quality Lip Balm
Many stylish women understand that no lip look is finished without well-nourished lips. Whether it’s a peptide-infused balm or a simple natural formula, it’s a must-have. Pro-tip: Many of the chicest women we know keep a lip product handy on their nightstands and in their everyday bags.
“I always carry a lip balm or two — my current favorite is Lip Cocoon from Iris&Romeo.” – Diana Cohen, Founder of Crown Affair
“Since I’m allergic to beeswax, I have a few specific lip balms I adore. My top three are ILIA Lip Wrap Reviving Balm, La Bouche Rouge Lipstick, and VMV Hypoallergenics Boo Boo Balm.” — Laurel Pantin, Fashion Writer
“I never step outside without my Rhode lip treatment.” — Jennie Yoon, Founder of Kinn
“On my nightstand, I keep my Hydroflask filled with ice water, Clearstem lip balm, and a red light lamp.” – Mari Llewellyn, Co-Founder of Bloom Nutrition
Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment at Rhode Skin$24 at Clearstem
