If you have just hit the 50 mark, welcome to the fifth decade of your life. While a lot of things will be changing around you that you won’t be able to control, there is one that you definitely can. And that is your skincare routine for the 50s. Don’t get intimated because there is nothing complicated or any rocket science here. It’s all about your basic cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen, but just a bit more targeted to suit your skin. So, follow these basic steps in your daily routine, and you will look radiant and healthy!

Related: Best Skincare Routine In The 40s: Reach Your Glow Goals With These Tips And Tricks

1. Start your day with a gentle and hydrating cleanser

Your skin might feel drier than usual so you need something that will give it a boost of hydration. A gentle creamy cleanser that suits your skin type is the perfect way to start your day. Choose milk and cream-based cleansers as they are gentle on the skin and clean without making the skin lose its moisture retention. Wash your face with lukewarm water as hot water is a strict no-no.

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2. Always use a toner after cleansing

Once you have cleaned your face, the next step in your routine should be a mild toner. It will help lock in the moisturiser and will act as a base for the skincare to follow. It also helps in targeting specific skin concerns like closing pores, tightening skin, and much more. So, choose a toner that serves your skin’s needs the best.

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3. Exfoliation is the key, but don’t go overboard

Mild scrubs that don’t tear your skin’s layer are extremely important for your skincare routine for the 50s. Both scrubs and peels are a great way to exfoliate mature skin. They help remove thick dead skin and reveal fresh, clean skin beneath the layers. But don’t exfoliate more than once a week and follow it up with a soothing skin serum. And in case your skin gets dry, itchy, or flaky, you can exfoliate twice but not more than that.

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4. Sunscreen with SPF 30+ is a lifesaver

You have probably heard it a million times over, but that is how important sunscreen is. It is one of the greatest barriers that protects the skin from fine lines, dark spots, and pigmentation. And as you age, your skin needs a more targeted sunscreen. Opt for a sunscreen with SPF 30+ that has protection from UVA and UVB rays. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day, and dab some on your hands as well.

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5. Up your retinol game

If you are still new to the concept of life-changing retinol, you may want to start slow and see a dermatologist. Depending on your skin type, you will need to find the perfect solution that won’t irritate or harm your skin. But if you have been using retinol for a while, you can up your game by using something a little stronger. Don’t go all the way up, just increase the strength slightly as your skin is used to the treatment.

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6. Eye creams are simply essential

The skin around your eyes is super sensitive and thin and it gets thinner as you age. So, skipping eye creams is just not an option anymore. But that doesn’t mean you have to burn a hole in your pocket and pick the priciest ones. Even a drugstore eye cream can suit you, depending on your skin type. Give your under eyes some hydration and nourishment because that is the first place where the signs of ageing start showing.

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7. Serums and oils boost water retention in the skin

Serums and oils lock in the moisture and retain water in the skin. Therefore, having an oil or serum you love makes your skincare routine for the 50s way easier to follow. Having an oil or serum that serves your purpose the best is essential for both your A.M. and P.M. routine. It boosts hydration and makes your skin look plump and glowing. Serums with Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and rosehip oil are some of the most common ones to tackle multiple skin concerns.

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8. A daily facial massage goes a long way

Using your hands or certain tools to massage your face every single day goes a long way in keeping your skin tight and bright. It helps in reducing fluid buildup, boosts collagen, and improves blood circulation keeping the skin healthy. As you age, your skin loses the ability to produce enough collagen which is essential to keep your skin clear and healthy. Therefore, a facial massage focused on your cheeks, jaw, forehead, and nose, keeps your face structure intact.

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Related: Skincare Routine In Your 30s: Things You Need To Do For Happy, Healthy Skin Forever