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  • SAVVY SELECTIONS
    • SAVVY SELECTIONS
    • Sleep Staples
    • Skin Simply Supercharged
    • Subtle Simple Smashbox
    • Sunshine and Soil
    • Spring Surprises
  • Join the Conversation

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➡   Want to skip the step-by-step and just shop the products?
Scroll down to Savvy Skin | Simply Supercharged for our full list of recommended skincare essentials—with descriptions and direct links all in one place. 

MIDLFIFE SKINCARE MADE SIMPLE

  Your morning and night routine—step by step. 

THE PERFECT ANTI-AGING SKINCARE ROUTINE – MORNING & NIGHT

START YOUR DAY FRESH WITH YOUR ULTIMATE MORNING ANTI-AGING SKINCARE ROUTINE

 STEP 1: CLEANSE & REFRESH – Start with a gentle cleanser like Versed Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, a non-stripping, fragrance-free cream cleanser made for all skin types—especially dry or sensitive. It removes impurities without disrupting your skin’s moisture barrier, while Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe help hydrate and soothe.
Note: This cleanser contains Hyaluronic Acid, but for deeper hydration, you can follow with a serum like The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 in Step 4. 

STEP 2: TONE & BALANCE – Apply Thayers Alcohol-Free Lavender Witch Hazel Toner to soothe, hydrate, and balance your skin’s pH.
STEP 3: TREAT & BRIGHTEN – Use SeoulCeuticals Korean Skin Care 20% Vitamin C Serum to fade dark spots, reduce wrinkles, and brighten skin for a more even complexion.  This antioxidant-rich serum also contains Hyaluronic Acid to boost hydration and promote a healthy glow.
STEP 4: HYDRATE & PROTECT – Apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, a multi-depth hydration serum that plumps, smooths, and locks in moisture for healthier-looking skin. Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin for lasting hydration.
Note: The Vitamin C serum already contains Hyaluronic Acid, so this step is optional unless your skin needs extra hydration.

STEP 5: MOISTURIZE – Finish with either Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream or Pacifica Vegan Ceramide Barrier Repair Face Lotion to provide all-day hydration while strengthening your skin's barrier.
STEP 6: SUN PROTECTION – Apply Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Sunscreen, an antioxidant-rich, reef-safe formula that protects against UV damage, soothes skin, and improves tone.


This routine is great for starting the day with hydration, brightening, and anti-aging benefits, while keeping your skin smooth and protected from environmental stressors.

RESTORE & RENEW WITH YOUR ULTIMATE NIGHTTIME ANTI-AGING SKINCARE ROUTINE

 STEP 1: CLEANSE & PREP – Begin with Versed Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, a fragrance-free, non-foaming cream cleanser that lifts away dirt and oil while keeping skin balanced. With Hyaluronic Acid for hydration and Aloe to calm and comfort, it preps your skin for the rest of your evening routine without leaving it dry or tight.
Note: While this cleanser offers light hydration, you can still layer a dedicated Hyaluronic Acid serum afterward for a boost—see Step 5 if your skin feels dry or tight.
(WEEKLY STEP: EXFOLIATE – AFTER SKIN ADJUSTS TO RETINOL) – 1-2x per week, use The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution after cleansing to deeply exfoliate, brighten skin, and improve texture.
Tips:

  • If you’re new to retinol, wait until your skin is acclimated (about 4-6 weeks) before introducing this exfoliating peel to avoid irritation
  •  On exfoliation nights, skip retinol to prevent over-exfoliation and sensitivity.

STEP 2: TONE & BALANCE – Apply Thayers Alcohol-Free Lavender Witch Hazel Toner to soothe, hydrate, and balance the skin’s pH.
STEP 3: TARGET EYES – On non-exfoliation nights, apply RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream to reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
STEP 4: TREAT & REPAIR – On non-exfoliation nights, use RoC Retinol Correxion Night Cream to visibly reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture overnight. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that promotes cell turnover and encourages smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

  • If you're new to retinol, start by using it 2-3 times per week and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts.
  • Allow retinol to fully absorb before applying the next step to maximize effectiveness and minimize irritation. 

STEP 5: EXTRA HYDRATION (IF NEEDED) – If your skin feels dry, apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 before your moisturizer to boost hydration and reduce potential dryness from retinol.
STEP 6: HYDRATE & PROTECT – Finish with a nourishing moisturizer like Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream to lock in hydration and minimize irritation from retinol.
STEP 7: NOURISH LIPS – Apply LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask for intense hydration and overnight repair.

Tips:

  • To avoid irritation, it's best not to use the lip mask at the same time as retinol—apply on alternate nights for best results.
  • If using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 on your face, you can also apply a small amount to damp lips before sealing in moisture with the LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask. However, if your lips already feel hydrated, the mask alone may be enough.


This routine is designed to repair, hydrate, and smooth your skin overnight, ensuring a youthful, rejuvenated complexion when you wake up.

Application Tips for Best Results


For best absorption and effectiveness:

  • Wait about 30-60 seconds between skincare steps to allow each product to absorb before applying the next.
  • If retinol feels too strong or difficult to spread, try the sandwiching method—apply a light layer of moisturizer before and after retinol to buffer potential irritation while still getting the benefits. ➡ If doing the sandwich method, apply HA before the first layer of moisturizer so it still hydrates properly.
  • Don’t stop at your jawline! Extend your skincare routine down to your neck and décolletage to keep this delicate area smooth, firm, and youthful. In the morning, apply Vitamin C to even skin tone, followed by Hyaluronic Acid and a moisturizer to keep the skin plump and hydrated. At night, use retinol sparingly to improve texture and reduce fine lines, sealing it in with a rich moisturizer to lock in hydration. Since the décolletage is prone to sun damage and premature aging, always apply sunscreen in the morning for extra protection.

Final Takeaway

By following these routines consistently, you're giving your skin exactly what it needs at the right time—protection and nourishment in the morning, deep repair and hydration at night. The combination of Vitamin C, retinol, and intense moisturization ensures that your skin stays youthful, radiant, and resilient against aging. 


Think of your skincare routine as an investment in your future skin. The morning routine shields and strengthens, while the nighttime routine repairs and renews. Over time, these steps work together to keep your complexion looking its best—healthy, hydrated, and glowing at any age.

This routine is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Everyone’s skin is different—consult a dermatologist or skincare professional before starting a new skincare regimen or adding new products, especially if you have sensitive skin or existing conditions.

➡ Check out the product recommendations below to build your perfect skincare routine.  

SAVVY SKIN | SIMPLY SUPERCHARGED

PROVEN SKINCARE THAT WORKS — An Anti-Aging Arsenal for Women 40+

 — Morning & Night Essentials —

Versed | Gentle Hydrating Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid & Aloe


A non-stripping, fragrance-free cream cleanser made for all skin types—especially dry or sensitive. Formulated with dual-weight Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe, and Vitamin B5, it gently removes dirt and impurities while replenishing moisture and soothing the skin for a clean, soft, and balanced feel.

RoC | Retinol Correxion Value Set Duo: AntiAging Skincare for Eyes & Face


The RoC Retinol Correxion Value Set Duo targets aging with two powerful formulas. The Deep Wrinkle Night Cream reduces wrinkles and photodamage in four weeks, smoothing fine lines. The Daily Under Eye Cream fights puffiness, dark circles, and crow’s feet. Together, they rejuvenate skin overnight and hydrate all day. In 12 weeks, wrinkles are reduced by 50%, revealing smoother, radiant skin. A must-have for midlife skincare.

Kiehl's | Ultra Facial Cream: Deep Hydration for Healthier Skin


Powered by 4.5% Squalane, Glacial Glycoprotein, and Pro-Ceramides, this lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer strengthens the skin barrier and delivers up to 72 hours of hydration. Clinically proven to hydrate 15 layers deep, it nourishes, protects, and soothes. Fast-absorbing and paraben-free, it leaves skin soft, smooth, and radiant.

 

Pacifica | Vegan Ceramide Barrier Repair Face Lotion


A lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer perfect for dry and sensitive skin, yet light enough for normal to slightly oily skin. Infused with marshmallow root and calendula, it deeply hydrates, soothes, and strengthens the skin’s barrier. Dermatologist-tested and cruelty-free, it provides long-lasting moisture and protection against environmental stressors. Ideal for daily use, it leaves the complexion refreshed and glowing.





SeoulCeuticals | Korean Skin Care 20% Vitamin C Serum


This powerful anti-aging serum combines Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and CE Ferulic Acid to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and sun spots. Promising visible results within 3 weeks of daily use, it helps achieve a youthful, glowing complexion while providing potent hydration and skin rejuvenation. Deeply hydrates, evens skin tone, and promotes a youthful, radiant complexion.

THAYERS | Alcohol-Free Lavender Witch Hazel Toner


This alcohol-free toner is an essential addition to any anti-aging routine, complementing retinol, Vitamin C, and moisturizer. It hydrates, balances pH, and reduces the appearance of pores, enhancing the effects of your serums. Made with organic Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera, it nourishes, soothes, and clarifies skin.


LANEIGE | Lip Sleeping Mask — Intense Hydration & Nourishment for Soft, Smooth Lips


A leave-on lip mask powered by Korean skincare to deeply hydrate, soften, and protect lips overnight. Enriched with Berry Fruit Complex, Murumuru Seed Butter, and Shea Butter, it delivers intense moisture and antioxidants, helping to smooth dry, flaky lips while you sleep.

Tip: To avoid potential irritation, it's best not to use this mask at the same time as retinol—apply it on alternate nights for the best result

Haruharu | Wonder Black Rice Sunscreen


This lightweight, antioxidant-rich sunscreen is infused with Rice Bran Oil and Black Rice to deeply moisturize and protect the skin. Heartleaf Extract soothes irritation, while Niacinamide brightens and evens skin tone. The reef-safe formula is free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, and other harmful ingredients. Vegan, cruelty-free, and hypoallergenic, it's perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin.


The Ordinary | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 – Deep Hydration for Plumper Skin


Experience multi-depth hydration with The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. This best-selling serum boosts moisture, helping to plump, smooth, and soften skin. Enriched with B5 and Ceramides, it strengthens the skin’s barrier while reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Designed for all skin types, this lightweight, fast-absorbing formula delivers long-lasting hydration for a healthier, youthful-looking complexion.


The Ordinary | AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution – Powerful Exfoliation for Radiant Skin


Reveal brighter, smoother skin with The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. This high-strength exfoliating formula removes dead skin cells to enhance glow, even skin tone, and improve texture. AHAs gently resurface the skin, while BHA penetrates deep into pores to clear congestion. Designed for at-home use, this peel helps achieve a refreshed, more radiant complexion with regular use.

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