5 Skincare Mistakes Every Man Over 40 Makes (And How to Fix Them)

I’ve been reviewing skincare products for a little more than 10 years now, and during that time, I’ve seen skincare trends come and go. My own skincare routine has evolved as I’ve aged, and I’ve noticed a common theme: many men, particularly those over 40, are making the same skincare mistakes over and over again.

Some of these mistakes are easy to overlook when you’re younger, but as you get older, they become more obvious—leading to things like premature aging, irritation, and a less-than-healthy complexion. I’ve made some of these mistakes myself in the past, but thankfully, through trial and error (and lots of product testing), I’ve found solutions that really work. So, if you’re a man in your 40s or older and wondering why your skin isn’t looking as fresh as it used to, let me share five common skincare mistakes and how to fix them.

1. Not Using SPF Daily

If you’re skipping sunscreen because you think it’s only necessary at the beach, you’re not alone. Most men I’ve spoken to don’t use SPF daily, which is a big mistake. Even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors, UV rays can penetrate through windows and cause skin damage, leading to dark spots, wrinkles, and other signs of premature aging. The truth is, sun damage accumulates over time, and by the time you’re 40, it really starts to show.

The Fix:

Incorporate SPF into your daily routine. There are plenty of lightweight moisturizers that include SPF, so you don’t need to add an extra step. One of my go-to recommendations is the Horace Mattifying Moisturizer with SPF 30. It protects your skin from harmful rays and has a non-greasy finish, making it perfect for daily use. Apply it as the last step in your morning skincare routine, even when the sun isn’t shining brightly.

2. Skipping a Proper Night Routine

The number of men who admit to not washing their face at night would surprise you. If you’re one of them, it’s time to make a change. As we age, our skin’s ability to repair itself slows down, and if you’re not cleansing and moisturizing before bed, your skin is left to battle dirt, oil, and pollution overnight. This results in clogged pores, breakouts, and dull skin that just won’t look its best.

The Fix:

A proper night routine doesn’t need to be complicated. Start by cleansing with a gentle face wash. The Horace Charcoal Face Wash is excellent at drawing out impurities while being kind to the skin. Follow up with a rich moisturizer to repair and hydrate your skin while you sleep. I’ve been using the Edinburgh Skincare Ultra Rich Face Cream, which provides intense hydration and helps combat dryness overnight. Trust me, you’ll wake up with your skin feeling refreshed.

3. Overlooking Eye Cream

Most men think eye cream is unnecessary or something only women use. But let’s face it, the skin around your eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on your face, which makes it prone to wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles. This is especially true as you age.By 40, these signs are hard to ignore if you’ve been neglecting this area.

The Fix:

Invest in a good eye cream. It should be designed to target puffiness and fine lines. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrates, and caffeine, which reduces puffiness. Apply a small amount both morning and night, and you’ll start to notice smoother, brighter eyes. The Brickell Restoring Eye Cream is one of the best you can

4. Using Harsh Soaps

Many men still use the same harsh bar soaps they’ve been using since they were teenagers. While these might have worked in your 20s, they’re too aggressive for aging skin, stripping it of its natural oils and leaving it dry and irritated. As you age, your skin becomes more sensitive, so using products that are too harsh can exacerbate problems like redness, dryness, and breakouts.

The Fix:

Switch to a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that won’t strip your skin’s natural moisture barrier. The Blu Atlas Volcanic Ash Face Cleanser is a great option. It’s gentle enough for daily use but still effective at removing dirt and oil. You’ll notice your skin feels smoother and less irritated after just a few uses.

5. Ignoring Hydration

By the time you hit 40, your skin’s ability to retain moisture starts to diminish. This can lead to dry patches, flakiness, and more noticeable fine lines and wrinkles. Skipping moisturizer or using a lightweight one might have been fine when you were younger, but now your skin needs extra help to stay hydrated and healthy.

The Fix:

Upgrade your moisturizer to something more hydrating. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture into the skin, and aloe vera, which soothes and hydrates. One of my favorites is Duke Cannon’s Dry Defense Face Lotion. It’s lightweight but packed with hydration, making it ideal for both morning and night use. You’ll notice your skin looks more plump and feels softer within a week.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Skin in Your 40s and Beyond

Skincare in your 40s doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a bit more attention than it did in your 20s or 30s. The key is to avoid these common mistakes and adopt a routine that suits your skin’s changing needs. Whether it’s applying SPF daily, adopting a solid night routine, or upgrading your moisturizer, small changes can make a big difference. Remember, it’s never too late to start taking better care of your skin.

So, if you’ve been guilty of these skincare mistakes, now’s the time to fix them. Trust me, your skin will thank you for it—and you’ll look and feel better as you age.

Jerome

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