Get the glow: how to make skin look radiant when you’re over-50
Radiance is the holy grail of beauty, at any age, but never more so when you’re over-50, says writer, author and journalist Jo GB. ‘My skin changed in my mid-40s and became more dull and dreary. I now need a seriously hefty dose of ‘skin glow’ essentials to keep things softer, more supple and that bit more luminous. I swear, the following helps my skin transform within about five minutes to a brighter, fresher, bouncier version than the one I woke up with.’
Here are Jo’s five ways to avoid a dull day:
Five-minute routine Fact is, past the ripe old age of about 18, our skin cell turnover slows down significantly until it’s taking over twice as long to naturally rejuvenate and repair itself by the time we get to 50. So we need to help it out by exfoliating at least once a week. Bumpier, dull skin loves nothing more than a good old buff; not only regularly, but gently. I never use nutty, grainy scrubs (ground down walnut or apricot kernels) because they have sharp micro edges that will make tiny tears in your skin. Some might say this is stimulating – personally I prefer a gentler but effective acid exfoliator using natural AHAs such as glycolic (sugar cane) or malic acid (found in papaya), that are naturally abrasive and work deep down, so you can use them regularly. I’m a big fan of the classic Alpha-H Liquid Gold Resurfacing Glycolic Cleansing Cream, that you massage into damp skin then rinse off or use a face cloth (double the exfoliation I like to think!); Kiehl’s Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub with its super fresh aroma, and Kiko Pure Clean Powder little exfoliating grains that transform into a creamy powder on the skin and transform the surface; or try rice powder found in the award-winning Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant and the brilliant (but expensive) Shiseido Bio-Exfoliating Discs, soft buffing pads that truly transform skin after one use; both slightly abrasive but leave skin incredibly smooth.
Regular acid exfoliation can also help to lighten and even prevent pigmentation marks, so do make sure you always protect your skin with a daily SPF (I always have a portable bottle of La Roche Posay Anthelios XL SPF50 in my bag) if you step up your buffing regime. ‘Pigmentation is ‘the new wrinkle’,’ says Michelle Doherty of Alpha-H; these skin brightening cleansing boosters really can transform the surface of your skin.
Take time to massage ‘ Rituals are as important as what you are putting on your skin,’ says facialist Annee de Mamiel, whose in-depth facials involve acupuncture along with deep facial massage. After any in-depth facial, just speedily applying a product once you’re home seems such a waste. Take your time! Take a few drops of a balmy cleanser or a serum or skin balm (I love REN’s Keep Young & Beautiful Instant Firming Beauty Shot for an extra glowy boost) and then massage into your skin. Never underestimate the power of your fingertips at boosting the skin’s microcirculation that also help stimulate your facial muscles. Many dismiss the power of massage, but a visit to a handful of facial massage experts (such as Nichola Joss) or try The Gankin Massage – there’s a YouTube video HERE or experts at the Suqqu counter will show you how – you can visibly see a lift to your jawline and cheekbones. ‘While good ingredients are essential, so is how you apply them,’ says Annee de Mamiel, whose super fresh Seasonal Facial Oils are great, ‘I would always recommend giving yourself a short facial massage each evening, it really gives skin a radiant glow, helps reduce fine lines and by stimulating the lymph, puffiness is decreased too.’
Five-minute glow OK, so I’m probably the only beauty editor who is not into sheet masks (the J-beauty trend that has swept the nation); next to most face wipes, it’s one of the most un-recyclable beauty inventions of late. Plus, personally they never fit my face, often irritate my eyes, some drip too much, so just not really all that relaxing – I usually can’t wait to remove them. Let’s revert back to a classic mask, shall we? Applying as little or as much as you need is way more cost effective as a result. I’m loving Elemis Superfood Vital Veggie Mask, not just because it sounds like my favourite salad of broccoli, kale and avocado (personally I do think skin benefits more when you have all that nutrition coming from within, but there we go), but it also contains skin brightening passion fruit and vitamin C.
Try Skin Fasting My insider beauty tip for better skin is called ‘Skin Fasting’. Whenever you’re at home for any long period of time, wear absolutely no make-up, to help promote the renewal of your skin’s natural moisturising factor and the protective barrier of your skin. Such a good discipline and something I have adhered to all my life. Choose pure plant oil blends (not mineral oil which blocks pores) and wear alone on clean skin focusing on your cheekbones, forehead and neck – areas that look especially youthful with a healthy sheen. I adore Jane Scrivener Affirmative Firming Toning Facial Oil with a beautiful blend of jojoba, moringa, red raspberry and pomegranate oils, or try The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Argan Oil.
Want an Instaglow? Dust a little highlighter onto the tops of your cheekbones to give a glimmering contour effect, playing with light not dark shading. My favourites include Illamasqua Beyond Powder in OMG that is super-fine and the tiniest bit dabbed on tops of cheekbones, upper lip and bridge of the nose, makes your skin SO beautiful. Equally a little hint of self-tan, used to contour along the cheekbones, around the temple, nose and collarbone looks like a real sun-kiss, as if you popped off for the weekend. I love the ease of Balance Me Gradual Tanning Drops for Face & Body, just add to your moisturiser, leave alone and you’ll have a golden radiance after a few hours.
JoGB is an expert on the wellness of beauty, read more beauty brilliance on her website HERE.
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Discussion (28 Comments)
Mrs Tonia says:
Interesting to read these recommendations. My skincare regime is far simpler but effective. I do use a grainy skin exfoliator by Caudalie, called Gommage Douce. It works well without irritation. Followed by the same brand Vinosource moisturiser for dry skin. I don’t have any symptoms of dry skin but like the texture and smell of this cream. And for eye cream, a must, either Ren Young and Beautiful one or Caudalie Vinexpert one. Sunglasses always and no daily SPF cream until warmer time of year. I like Roche Posay and Avene. I just bought an Avene moisturiser containing sun filter to use daily from now on. I haven’t had any Botox or fillers so far and will live without them doing the best I can with skincare, a healthy diet, low alcohol and good amount of sleep.
Lesley says:
In January I tried Clinique’s 7 Day Scrub Cream to address those occasional annoying pimples I’m still getting at almost 59. You know the ones that seem to start about 3 inches below the surface? I use it two or three times a week and it has been GREAT! When I bought it I also got a teeny free sample jar of their Moisture Surge 72-Hour Replenishing Hydrator, which I’d never tried before. LOVE IT. You need so little that the wee sample jar lasted me for weeks. Suddenly I’m getting compliments on my skin.
Valerie says:
Don’t forget the power of a good cream blush! Forget pink, coral and berry. Instead choose a shade that’s an emphatic flesh tone. Aim for healthy, not colourful. Plus cream blush’s texture adds to your skin’s radiance.
Mary says:
Glad you are talking about sheetmasks and their waste foot print. The beauty industry still has a long way to go
Jodi Brown says:
Some really good suggestions here, thanks so much – the Elemis mask looks especially good.
Lizzie says:
A little suggestion, if it isn’t rude – I think people might appreciate recommendations for mainstream products as well, ie things that can be purchased in-store, whether it be Debenhams, John Lewis or larger branches of Boots, or even drugstore dupes.
Sometimes deliveries can be an absolute pain, as can internet security and the pressure to remember passwords/use credit/open accounts and so forth, plus you can’t waive signature on stuff sent through the post in the way you can with some couriers.
I’m sure you’ve got followers who are of modest means or live in the sticks, who would appreciate this.Hiya – having been in the beauty industry a long time – ‘mainstream’ is yes easy to access – so good point – however I am trying my best in my recommendations to avoid many major brands that prioritise sales in China (fingers crossed the laws are changing but brands sold there must by law test end products on animals) – ie majorly mainstream, made in bulk and often (though a generalisation to be sure) full of cheap ingredients such as mineral oil that significantly blocks the pores. We can all only try our best with what we buy & use – but in my opinion we def can get away with using LESS, but better quality with age…. across beauty, fashion, interiors… Jo
liz mackenzie says:
Further to my point about the Superdrug Naturally Radiant range, all of their own brand products are cruelty free with the “leaping bunny” logo on them. Their B serum is also very good £14.99 (also buy one get one free) I’m sure the products you mention are good but for a much more reasonable price the Superdrug skin care products I’ve tried have been great.
Vicki says:
That Naturally Radiant moisturiser is my fave and I think always will be. Really Fabulous.
Vivienne says:
Thank you for your comment on Chinese products and companies which export to China. I have boycotted these and cruelty to animals products for years.
liz mackenzie says:
Hi
a more budget friendly option is Superdrug Naturally Radiant range. They have overnight glycolic peel, glycolic toner and glycolic acid pads all at £5.99 and at the moment they have buy one get one free offer. The pads are convenient for travelling but I prefer the other 2 products. I have tried more expensive skin care occasionally such as Ren but I find most of the Superdrug skin care products to be better than more expensive ranges.Evie Squadrille says:
I agree it should be more inclusive…I went from Dior to L’Oreal for a moisturizer have no regrets and the results are outstanding! My pocketbook is happy too!
Sarah says:
Hi Lizzie – I am using Aldi’s own brand, Lacura, hot cloth cleanser. I’ve been using it for several months and really like it. My skin looks healthy, really clean and glowy (I’m 54). It comes in a large tube which lasts for at least a couple of months, is cruelty free (leaping bunny logo), and the cloth is included – all for under £4.00. The clay mask is really good too – it comes with a brush to apply it and that is about the £4.00 mark too. I have used a Factor 30 daily moisturizer for as long as I can remember – I used to use Time Delay by Boots but they stopped making it so I’ve switched to Simple Factor 30 (it’s a kind of liquidy texture) for the summer and Aldi (again, sorry!) Factor 30 for the winter. I’m all for trying expensive creams if they work – I like Filorga, for instance – but I’m sure that after a while all the research that the big names have invested in gets filtered down to the cheaper brands. It’s just a case of finding what works for you.
Fiona says:
Absolutely agree. Saw a very positive review for their products when I was feeling rather broke and have been delighted with the product above. The night cream with caviar gets great reviews too, though I haven’t yet tried it.
Mary says:
Thank you for this! I wear sunscreen on my face each and every day and wish I’d started sooner. So it’s OK NOT to use the natural stuff? In the past, I’ve read about the dangerous ingredients found in sunscreen but I worry the natural stuff may not work! My dermatologist actually recommended La Roche Posay as well but at the time, I neglected to ask her this very question.
Where possible natural, mineral sunscreens suit more skins – esp sensitive – and chemical sunscreens are starting to be banned from a few beaches as they are believed to pollute the ocean (makes sense but only just getting more info on this fact) – if you have no skin issues – a chemical/mineral combo still considered to protect skin best equally from UVA & B (called broad spectrum) for best age-defying benefits – to me the priority is protection 1st, chemical V mineral 2nd – as the thicker whiter mineral formulas, although way better today, may put some people off reapplying. Does that help? Jo
Alysen Beacon says:
When you suggest “skin-fasting”, are you suggesting going without moisturiser or simply no make up? Some interesting product ideas: I may visit the linked blog. Thanks.
I’m Mrs low key! Whip it all off, take a break – hate ‘Sunday facials’ – people use way too much and get issues. So while in this instance I meant makeup – I always suggest ‘look at your skin: it’s a living, breathing organ and reacts swiftly to everything we do in life – booze, sun, chips, stress V avocado, sex, menstruation/menopause ,… then be ‘actively kind’. Less really is more – but fit in a decent facialist every 8 weeks if poss
Anira says:
Very interesting,I’ve started using a few Alpha H products the past year and really like the difference they’ve made to my skin. Definitely brighter and smoother. I’m using the Foreo Lunar to cleanse and the massage side for my serum in the morning, and I really think these 2 brands have improved my skin so much. Love the facial oil recommendation when home and will definitely try that.
Chrissie Dyson says:
M&S Autograph do a gradual self tanning product, just add to your night time moisturiser.
Helen says:
I’m 46 (no wrinkles but a vastly depleted ‘glow’) and I’ve just started using The Ordinary stuff largely to save money. I can’t recommend it enough. It’s made my skin look noticeably brighter and clearer in just a few weeks.
I use a mild retinol (0.2% – no rawness or redness to report)
alternated with the Vitamin C serum and the rose hip oil (each cost around £5) twice a day. The science-y product info is a bit tricky to understand (I had to research about which to use) but for 15 quid all in, it’s worth it.Allison McCann says:
I use a pinch of bicarbonate of soda with warm water. I work it into a paste and use that for exfoliating.
Harjeet says:
The best beauty treatments are nutritional in my experience. In my 50s and I often get complimented for my skin and easily taken for 10 years younger (even 15). My essentials are collagen, omega 3, MSM, vit c and plenty of water. Good quality is vital, don’t even think of buying these from high street chains or chemists.
Thank you for sharing these beauty tips in such an exhaustive manner.Thank you for really good beauty suggestions
Mary says:
Great Read.
The massage part and skin fast is new to but i have always guessed it would be nice. Thanks for confirming.Mary
Nancy says:
The links here don’t work any more. At least the few I tried. But, google the products. I found them in other places. Also, just to add, my skin has always been very oily. Very! That was not good when I was younger, but it is great now. So I don’t use a whole lot of products that add moisture. I can easily look greasy. What I have done for a long time and I believe has been a huge boost to how my skin looks at almost 65, is use the Clairsonic. I use it in the morning and in the evening pretty much every day. Sadly, they went out of business in 2020. 🙁 Mine is still working thankfully. But eventually I will have to find a similar thing by another brand.
Helen Johnson says:
Thanks for letting me know about the links Nancy! I’ll update them. And I used to love my Clarisonic, so sad when they stopped production. Helen – TNMA admin
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Just what I needed for a Monday morning. At 66, I am ALWAYS looking for recommendations for skincare products and routines. I fortunately realized years ago the importance of sunscreen– high SPF ones! I also use tretinoin, vitamin C serum, hyaluronic acid and glyconic acid. These are my main workhorses. And various oils. It’s fun trying different products and seeing what works. I also try to avoid the super expensive ones. Lately I’ve been loving The Ordinary brand. So good, and reasonably priced. I doubt I’ll ever have any surgical work done on my face (I’d much rather spend my money traveling). I also am thinking of having a keratin treatment on my long, wiry and frizzy hair, which I spend too much time straightening. I would love it if you’d do a post on Keratin treatments. I’ve heard mostly good things about them.
Have a good week!