Skin care would be much easier if once we found the ideal serum for our skin, we could use it forever, reaping good results.
But sadly, the skin just doesn’t work that way. Thanks to seasonal changes (dryness in winter, clogged pores in summer), hormonal changes (from puberty to pregnancy to menopause and beyond), pollution and sun exposure, the needs of a woman’s skin vary constantly. .
If we add aging to this, it is clear that skin care products from the age of 40 are not the same as those that work for young skin in the 20s.
Therefore, if you are entering your quarantine, perhaps it may be a good ideal to change the serum you are using for another that helps you to counteract the loss of collagen that inevitably occurs after 30.
From this time on, we lose about one percent of our skin’s natural collagen stores per year, which is a significant amount by the time we reach our 40s.
As a result, the skin has less elasticity, and when it is stretched it takes longer to return to its place. Fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes, begin to become more prominent.
Dermatologists recommend counteracting these problems in two ways: using a vitamin C product to build up collagen, and Retinol or Cobiolift to treat fine lines .
Based on this recommendation, we have selected the best serums to use at this stage of life. We will analyze each product explaining its ingredients, and assess it according to what the INCI shows us.
The 6 Best Serums for Women over 40
- Nezeni Cosmetics Intensive Antiage Serum
- IS Clinical Super Serum Advance Plus
- Violet-C Illuminating Serum by Tatcha
- Ferulic + Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Night Serum by Dr. Dennis Gross
- Upgrade Chrono Lift Intensive Rejuvenating Serum by Sensilis
- The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum de La Mer
Nezeni Cosmetics Intensive Antiage Serum – The best anti-aging facial serum
We like the Nezeni serum so much, that in addition to recommending it in our article with the Best Anti-Aging Facial Serums , we also recommend it as the best for skin over 40 years old.
Well, we are not going to analyze all its ingredients again because you have everything explained by following the link, but we are going to comment on some important things, explaining in depth why we love it.
I begin by saying that one of the things we like the most is that it contains a large number of active ingredients , among which Cobiolift, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Arginine stand out. This is your INCI:
The Cobiolift is a natural extract of quinoa, a seed prized for centuries in the Andean medicine for its tensioners benefits. Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, lines and furrows by creating a biocompatible film with a marked filmogenic and tightening effect, resulting in visibly smoother skin.
The Vitamin C as Ascorbyl Glucoside is quickly absorbed into the skin to combat aging and promotes cell renewal of the surface so that the skin look firmer, while improving hydration levels. Plus, it protects skin from oxidation and helps reduce UV damage so skin looks brighter over time.
It also contains Hyaluronic Acid in both high and low molecular weight, to hydrate the skin both deeply and superficially, achieving more lasting results.
And Arginine , an amino acid that works as an antioxidant and helps increase collagen production. Gentle and effective, sea salt also works to remove debris and dead skin cell buildup for smooth, radiant skin.
In short, this is a lot of work for such a small container.
I have tried many vitamin C serums in my skincare routine over the years, and have used multiple brands. For the last year I have been using Nezeni’s serum and I have not been able to find anything that I like so much.
It has a light, fresh scent and sinks into my skin without leaving any sticky or greasy residue. A single pressure is enough to cover my entire face, so even though the container is small, it goes a long way.
When I wake up in the morning after using the serum, my complexion looks healthy and much smoother . My skin is hydrated and I have noticed a reduction in blemishes.
But what convinces me the most is what it doesn’t have. I am referring to ingredients that are harmful to the skin . Avoid parabens, silicones, mineral oil, and largely preservatives.
Yes, I know that a cosmetic needs preservatives so that the other active ingredients are not spoiled. But it is one thing to have some natural preservative to inhibit microorganisms, and another is to include a huge amount of preservative ingredients.
Most preservatives are not good, and although our skin can tolerate them in a small amount, if the concentration is large – derived from the cumulative effect of other cosmetics – they can start to cause skin problems.
You will not have these problems with Nezeni serum, well neither with the serum nor with any other of its products, as they have a very low level of preservatives . This can be seen because the package shows the expiration date closed in a period of approximately 2 years.
This is sure that you will not see it in another cosmetic -or at least it is very rare to find it-, since most have a sufficient amount of preservatives to keep it in optimal condition for several years.
With this cosmetic I am calm, because I know I am taking care of both my skin and my health.
Well, another thing I like about the product is that you don’t have to wait several times to see results . Within a week I have already noticed results. My skin is fuller, firmer and more luminous. In summer, when new ones are always wilted, I have not noticed these discolorations.
It is valid for all skin types, as it is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. I have not noticed any irritation, and that my skin is quite reactive.
So I am delighted. I can’t ask for more from this serum.
IS Clinical Super Serum Advance Plus
Formulated with natural ingredients that work to protect skin from sun damage and the ravages of time, this antioxidant-rich facial serum can enhance your complexion by stimulating collagen production and protecting against UV rays and environmental damage.
Super Serum Advance + combines the remarkable results of L-ascorbic acid released in a concentration of 15%, with copper tripeptides , to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, stretch marks and irregular pigmentations, and hydrates with hyaluronic acid .
It also includes arbutin, pentapeptide amino acids, kojic acid, vitamin B5, gotu kola, and zinc sulfate.
This new and improved formula is three times more effective than the original super serum, and is very effective in making skin look brighter and firmer with a more even tone and texture.
Ideal for those aged and sun-damaged skin, as well as for treating scars or stretch marks.
At the moment it looks good, but let’s see everything that iS Clinical has to offer for our skin by analyzing its ingredients.
- L-Ascorbic Acid : Analyzed in the Lancaster Skin Therapy eye contour .
- Hyaluronic Acid : Analyzed in the L’Oreal Revitalift Laser X3 eye contour .
- Pentylene Glycol : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
- Urea : Analyzed in Mercadona’s Sisbela eye contour .
- Glucose : Analyzed in the Lancaster Skin Therapy eye contour .
- Guanidine and Tripeptide-1 : Together they form the compound Kollaren BG, a biomimetic tripeptide derived from a signal peptide capable of regenerating and stimulating the production of the essential ECM proteins (collagen I and III, fibronectin, elastin and laminin), which increases firmness, stimulates tissue renewal and the healing process of the skin to achieve a global anti-aging action. It also has an action on acne prone skin, reducing the appearance of acne scars and blemishes, for a matt, smoother and healthier skin in just 4 weeks.
- Arbutin : Analyzed in the eye contour Reti Age Eye Contour of Sesderma .
- Polyporus Umbellatus (Mushroom) Extract : Polyporus Umbellatus mushroom extract has been shown in numerous studies to have significant antibacterial activity. But what really interests us for the skin is that it is a source of kojic acid, and therefore has great properties to illuminate and depigment the skin.
- Calcium Pentothenate : Tested in Filorga’s Ultralifting Lift Designer Serum .
- Asiaticoside , analyzed in Xhekpon cream from a bar .
- Asiatic Acid : Analyzed in Xhekpon cream from Vectem sa .
- Madecassic Acid : Analyzed in Xhekpon cream from Vectem sa .
- Zinc Sulfate : Analyzed in Biotherm Homme’s T-Pur moisturizer .
- Glycerin : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
- Phenoxyethanol : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
The list is short and to the point, avoiding fillings as much as possible, something that is appreciated. The good thing about this is that almost all the ingredients present – especially the superior ones – are in a good concentration.
The L-ascorbic acid , which stimulates collagen synthesis, provides photoprotection and remains on the skin up to 72 hours, at the top. Something that is noticeable and a lot in the results.
It is followed by Hyaluronic Acid , responsible for restoring moisture to the skin along with the rest of moisturizers and moisturizers.
The Tripeptide Copper is a powerful promoter of the collagen and elastin and, as an antioxidant, protects against free radicals.
The Arbutin is a natural ‘prime’ synthetic hydroquinone, which is the skin lightening agent most used worldwide for the treatment of various types of pigment spots and hyperpigmentation. But due to its strength, effectiveness, and certain side effects, hydroquinone is only available by prescription.
So, because arbutin slowly releases hydroquinone, it is less irritating to the skin and can be applied directly. Therefore, it has the same benefits, but without the side effects and risks of it.
This makes arbutin a safe and effective option for people with sensitive skin and uneven skin tone.
This lightening effect of the arbutin is enhanced by the Polyporus Umbellatus extract , which, being rich in kojic acid, is a natural lightening agent that evens the skin tone and reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
And finally, we have the triterpenes in Centella Asiatica , known to increase collagen production, hydrate the skin, treat psoriasis and eczema, decrease inflammation and reduce sun damage. Gotu Kola is rich in antioxidants and amino acids that help soothe and minimize skin scars.
For all these active ingredients we can say that it is a really effective treatment to improve the appearance of the skin.
Helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks, scars, uneven pigmentation, and acne. Promotes wound healing, collagen production and increases softness.
It also provides protection against UV damage, environmental damage, and free radical damage using powerful antioxidants.
I only put a couple of drawbacks, for my taste it needs some other anti-wrinkle ingredient, and its price is somewhat high, not suitable for all pockets. The good news is that a few drops are enough to cover the entire face and neck, for which it spreads quite a bit.
Without a doubt, a great option to give extra pampering to our skin damaged by the sun or blemishes.
Violet-C Tatcha Illuminator Serum
Japanese beauty brand Tatcha has created a new illuminating serum called Violet-C. The Violet thing is because the serum is stabilized using a violet fruit that gives it its impressive lavender color.
With 20% Vitamin C + 10% AHA , this serum is no joke, but because it features a new type of water-soluble vitamin C derivative, it is gentler than you might expect.
The results are clearly visible, a smoother texture thanks to seven different fruits, including apple, grapefruit, hawthorn and jujube, as well as less discoloration due to Japanese angelica root, which helps break up excess melanin deposits (hyperpigmentation ).
However, it falls a bit short on anti-wrinkle actives, one of the biggest problems of mature skin.
You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Violet-C Tatcha Illuminating Serum, Analysis and Alternative .
Ferulic + Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Night Serum by Dr. Dennis Gross
Get professional results with Dr Gross F&R Serum, a skin care product that works to smooth and regenerate skin.
The formula with retinol, ferulic acid and niacin ensures that issues such as the appearance of wrinkles, blemishes and sun damage can be successfully treated and addressed.
Continued use of the serum can help establish firmer, smoother and more luminous skin by unifying the tone and solving the problem of free radicals.
However, if you have never used a retinol product, or your skin is sensitive or reactive, you may have problems with redness and itching.
You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Ferulic + Retinol Night Serum Anti-Wrinkle by Dr. Dennis Gross, Analysis and Alternative .
Upgrade Chrono Lift Intensive Rejuvenating Serum by Sensilis
Although it is one of the weakest serums on the list, the Upgrade Chrono Lift definitely deserves a place on this list.
The serum complex includes multiple peptide formulas to revitalize and repair the skin, reduce wrinkles and improve texture. However, these peptides are not present in the concentration that we would like.
The peptides are joined by chrysanthemum extract, which supports collagen synthesis by promoting elasticity and firmness, while improving texture.
There is a but, there is a lot of filler at the top of the list, and it has perfume and two potentially irritating ingredients.
You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Upgrade Chrono Lift Intensive Rejuvenating Serum by Sensilis, Analysis and Alternative .
The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum de La Mer
If you want to invest in a cosmetic to improve the signs of aging on your skin, this is a good, albeit great, investment.
It is a deeply regenerating and revitalizing serum that awakens the energy of your skin drop by drop, flooding the skin with active ingredients of marine origin and the legendary Miracle Broth .
Rapidly penetrates skin, revitalizing with marine nutrients to create a haven of continuous hydration. It also has a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against environmental aggressors.
Skin appears fuller and lines are visibly smoothed as natural repair is energized. The complexion becomes visibly radiant and younger. But a face cream at this price can cause a few extra wrinkles.
You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum de La Mer, Analysis and Alternative .
What is skin like at 40
Although at 40 you may find yourself on the cusp of your personal life in terms of work, trust and family, when it comes to skin, 40 is full of rapid changes, and not always for the better.
It is very likely that at 40 you will begin to lose estrogen. Unfortunately, this hormonal change can lead to a number of changes in your skin.
- The skin becomes drier . Even if the time to fight oily skin is over, at 40 you have a new problem to deal with: dryness. The skin becomes even drier and less firm. Luckily, this can be easily treated with a cream with hydrating ingredients, a good diet, and tons of water.
- The skin loses firmness . When you look in the mirror you see sagging skin, it’s normal You will notice a decrease in elasticity, mostly around the eyes and jaw, where reduced fat deposits can make the skin look especially baggy.
- Wrinkles are accentuated . It is possible that after 30 you have some fine lines, but it is after 40 when deep grooves begin to appear.
- Spots begin to develop . The days when you are apparently unaffected by unprotected sun exposure are over. In fact, even the slightest sun exposure can create dark spots on your skin as you age.
- The shine and radiance of the skin is lost . The loss of collagen and elastin has one more effect: the complexion loses the youthful glow it once had.
- The skin is more easily irritated . Extreme dryness can make your skin more easily irritated, which means that many of the products that suited you are now too harsh on your skin.
- Capillaries break more easily . That sudden redness you’re seeing? It is probably the result of some broken capillaries. As we age, the fat reserves under the skin tend to deplete, as does the collagen and elastin that keep it firm. This combination can make the skin more sensitive to damage, making the skin more reddened.
Taking into account all these factors, you have to adapt the care of this new skin to your needs. And one of the best ways to take care of it is by using a serum.
What is a Serum and what is its function
Sometimes you feel like you need a master’s degree in beauty to discover what the various skincare solutions can really do. An example of this are serums.
What makes them different from creams? What are the benefits of adding this extra step to your skincare routine? It turns out that serums can help you solve a number of skincare problems.
If you think of your skincare routine as a three-course menu, the serum is like the main dish.
After starting with a snack (aka face cleanse), and before indulging in dessert (aka nourishing moisturizer), your skin is filled with all the important nutrients (aka serum).
Like a main dish, serums can contain a high proportion of nutrients useful for the skin .
These are skin care products that are designed to provide high concentrations of specific active ingredients to the skin.
Its small molecules are able to truly penetrate the skin, and deliver the actives at a deeper level, unlike heavier creams that settle on the upper layers.
They are generally colorless and have a liquid texture, much less thick than that of a moisturizer. This is why they should be applied before moisturizers to help retain moisture.
There are many different types of serums on the market. Each has a different blend of ingredients that work to help skin solve its problems, which can range from dryness, to wrinkles, to dull skin.
But what kind of serums should you specifically look for?
The key is to look for products that provide a ton of botanicals, antioxidants, and hydration (water!). Without a doubt, these are the best ingredients you can look for in a serum for a skin that exceeds the quarantine.
Vitamin C
In addition to its role as a powerful antioxidant , vitamin C is an essential cofactor for the production of healthy collagen. In other words, it stimulates the skin to create more of the good stuff and keep the signs of aging to a minimum.
Retinol
Retinol is one of the best treatments for fine lines and wrinkles. In the skin, retinol is converted to retinoic acid, which binds to receptors to increase the rate of cell turnover.
This increase in cell renewal results in smoother and more even skin.
Additionally, retinoic acid inhibits matrix metalloproteinases, or MMPs. MMPs are the enzymes that break down collagen; therefore, by inhibiting MMPs, fine lines and wrinkles can be improved.
Thanks to the recent rise in retinol formulas on the market, you won’t have a problem finding a product that works for your skin and doesn’t produce the most characteristic side effects, such as irritation.
Retinol insiders should start with a low concentration of Retinol a few days a week to minimize irritation, redness, or stinging.
Cobiolift
Wrinkles are one of the main problems your skin is going to face as you enter your 40s, but with this quinoa extract it will be easier to reduce their depth and prevent them.
This natural compound has an immediate tightening effect that minimizes the appearance of lines and wrinkles, reducing their depth by up to 47%.
Hyaluronic acid
With the ability to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water, hyaluronic acid is one of the building blocks of healthy skin.
But unfortunately, the natural production of hyaluronic acid is now half of what it was when you were 20 years old. So try adding this ingredient to your daily routine for an extra boost of hydration.
Warning: Because the ingredients in serums are quite concentrated, do a sensitivity test in another area before trying a new product on your face.
As you reach 40, what you remove from your skincare routine is just as important as what you add. To do this, avoid products with perfume and fragrances, as some women are more sensitive to highly perfumed products with age.
Also avoid astringent products that are too drying, such as alcohol, as these can exacerbate changes in texture and make skin appear older.
And of course, it eliminates parabens and high concentrations of preservatives.
Types of serums
As we’ve discussed, there are many types of serums, so choosing wisely is always a challenge. It is best to evaluate the benefits of your current serum to guide your search for products that are truly effective.
These powerful solutions are some of the most common serums available:
Anti-aging
The purpose of the serum: To help delay the signs of aging and the natural aging process by providing essential anti-aging ingredients to combat fine lines and wrinkles.
Skin types that should use it: They are beneficial for all skin types, not just for mature skin, and can be used from the age of 20.
Ingredients to look for: Retinol, caffeine, green tea, proteoglycans, and hyaluronic acid (usually called sodium hyaluronate).
Tip: If you have dry skin and are using a retinoid, start at a low dose, about 0.25%, so your skin can tolerate it before moving on to a stronger dose.
Antioxidants
The purpose of the serum: To protect the skin from the free radicals it is exposed to daily, they also help prevent fine lines and other visible signs of aging, and can heal and repair the skin. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and cause premature aging.
Skin types that should use it: Since we are exposed to free radicals on a regular basis, antioxidants are ideal for all skin types. Just be sure to take a look at the ingredients so it doesn’t include any potentially irritating ingredients. Fragrances, colorants, sulfates, and in some cases preservatives can cause harm.
Ingredients to look for: Vitamins A, C and E, resveratrol, niacinamide, melatonin and L-ascorbic acid.
Tip: Apply the vitamin C serum in the morning, under the sunscreen, to achieve greater protection against ultraviolet light.
Moisturizers
The purpose of the serum: To help infuse the skin with extra hydration to complement the moisturizer.
Skin types that should use it: Those with dry skin are ideal candidates, but interestingly, oily skin – and even acne-prone skin – can also benefit from targeted hydration. Both mature and young skin can use a hydrating serum.
Ingredients to look for: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, peptides and natural oils.
Tip: You are never too young to use a product designed to hydrate.
Depigmenting
The purpose of the serum: To treat skin problems such as hyperpigmentation, large pores and fine lines .
Types of skin that should use it: Those that seek to equalize the tone of the skin or eliminate dark spots.
Ingredients to Look For: Phytic Acid, Vitamin C, Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Azelaic Acid, L-Ascorbic Acid, and Glycolic Acid.
Tip: Antioxidant serums naturally brighten skin, but products with added arbutin or kojic acid also help suppress pigments and brighten skin.
How to use the serum
To get the most out of your serum, you have to apply it correctly. Follow these steps to get the best results:
- Cleanse your skin first . Double cleansing is recommended – first, use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, and then use a water-based cleanser to remove impurities – to leave skin totally clean and responsive.
- Once the skin is prepared, shake the serum and take a small amount in the palm of your hands -to avoid wasting the product-. Heat the product by rubbing your hands.
- Next, place the palms of your hands on the skin of your cheeks and gently squeeze them. Allow it to absorb momentarily and then move to the skin of the facial oval, following the nose, forehead, chin and ending at the neck.
- Scrape the remains of the product with your fingertips over the entire surface of the skin. Then apply the moisturizer, sunscreen and your skin is ready to face the day.
This gentle pressure method improves circulation, restores radiance, and promotes healthy-looking skin .
Generally, the serum should be applied all over the face and neck twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, before applying the moisturizer.
Everyone’s skin is different, but on average, you should wait 3-7 weeks to see how your skin responds to a new serum routine.
Depending on the product and the current state of your skin, you might even see initial results – like slightly more hydrated skin – in just a few days.
Kathie Sand always saw the world of beauty as the terrain on which to build her professional career, a goal that was clear to her when she was only 15 years old. Her great concern to expand knowledge led her to settle in Paris where she studied hand in hand with the best beauty professionals and with the most advanced techniques for skin care.