Navigating the world of skincare can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re walking into a beauty store like Ulta or Sephora. With endless options and no clear direction, finding the right products for your combination skin can be frustrating.
As someone who doesn’t wear a lot of makeup and hasn’t been to a dermatologist regularly, I struggled to find a routine that delivered real results. But as I enter my 40s and premenopause, my skin is changing, and so are its needs. That’s when I discovered Dermstore—a skincare game-changer that pairs you with an esthetician for free to create a personalized skincare plan.
After working with my esthetician, I built a simple but effective AM and PM skincare routine that helps balance my combination skin, tackle early signs of aging, and keep my complexion healthy. And now, I’m sharing it with you!
Below you will find a list of products geared towards my combination skincare routine. I’ve linked them to Amazon but Dermstore offers a 15% off coupon for your first purchase. I found the prices comparable to Amazon for the most part.
Do you know your Skin Type?
Take this short skin type quiz offered free from Paula's Choice. It's quick and Easy and will help you decide on the perfect skin care routine.
Why You Need a Structured Skincare Routine in Your 40s
5 Products Used Every Morning to Combat Aging
Your 40s are a pivotal time for skincare. Hormonal changes can cause dry patches, oiliness, or increased sensitivity. A well-thought-out skincare routine helps:
✔️ Maintain hydration without excess oil buildup
✔️ Prevent premature wrinkles and fine lines
✔️ Reduce hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
✔️ Strengthen the skin barrier for long-term health
This combination skin care guide is perfect for women who want results-driven skincare without unnecessary steps.
Below is a helpful video from CeraVe which has YouTube videos discussing the types of skin types. The first step in any routine is to determine your skin type so click the link to find out yours.
Morning Skincare Routine for Combination Skin
1. Gentle Cleanser
Product: Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser
A lightweight gel cleanser that removes overnight oil buildup without stripping the skin. Perfect for combination skin since it cleans without over-drying.
Pro Tip: Massage into damp skin for 30 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water.
2. Balancing Toner
Product: Paula’s Choice SKIN BALANCING Pore-Reducing Toner
This pH-balancing toner helps minimize pores and reduce oiliness while hydrating dry areas. It’s a must-have for premenopausal skin that may fluctuate between oily and dry.
3. Antioxidant Serum for Brightening
Product: Vichy LiftActiv 16% Pure Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that brightens skin, evens out skin tone, and boosts collagen. As you age, your skin produces less collagen, leading to dullness and wrinkles.
Why it works:
✔️ Protects against UV damage
✔️ Fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation
✔️ Improves overall radiance
4. Eye Cream for Wrinkles and Firming
Product: Vichy LiftActiv H.A. Anti-Wrinkle Firming Eye Cream
If you’re 40+ and haven’t started using eye cream, now is the time! This hydrating eye cream reduces puffiness and fine lines, keeping your under-eye area smooth and firm.
Application Tip: Dab a pea-sized amount around your eyes using your ring finger.
5. Moisturizer with Barrier Support
Product: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer
A lightweight yet deeply hydrating moisturizer that supports the skin barrier and locks in moisture. It contains ceramides and niacinamide—essential for pre-menopausal skin that needs extra nourishment.
Nighttime Skincare Routine for Combination Skin
Your PM routine is all about repairing and rejuvenating your skin while you sleep.
6. Double Cleanse (If Wearing Sunscreen or Makeup)
Product: Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser
I use the same morning cleanser at night to remove excess oil, dirt, and sunscreen from the day. If I wore makeup, I start with an oil-based cleanser first.
7. Exfoliating & Retinol Treatment
Products:
✅ Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 0.3 Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment (2-3x a week)
✅ COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid (2-3x a week, alternating with retinol)
I alternate between a retinol treatment and an AHA exfoliant to keep my skin fresh and glowing.
✔ Retinol fights wrinkles and boosts collagen
✔ AHA exfoliates dead skin and improves texture
Important: If you’re new to retinol, start with once a week and increase gradually.
8. Nighttime Moisturizer & Eye Cream
Products:
✅ Vichy LiftActiv H.A. Anti-Wrinkle Firming Eye Cream
✅ La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer
Hydration is key at night! I finish with a rich moisturizer and eye cream to lock in moisture and help my skin repair overnight.
BONUS PRODUCTS TO AMP UP YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
9. Lips & Body Moisturizer
Products:
✅ Paula’s Choice Lip Booster BOOST
✅ Paula’s Choice Weightless Body Treatment
✅ Dove Active Clear Body Wash
✅ Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream
✅ Grace & Stella Eye mask
Where to Get Your Personalized Skincare Routine
One of the best discoveries I made was Dermstore’s free esthetician consultation. They:
✔️ Customize a skincare routine based on your skin type
✔️ Recommend dermatologist-approved products
✔️ Offer text support for skincare advice
You don’t have to navigate skincare alone! Check out Dermstore to get your own free consultation and start investing in your skin today.
Final Thoughts: Skincare in Your 40s & Beyond
I never thought I’d be someone with a structured skincare routine, but now that I’ve found what works, I see real results.
If you’re in your 40s and heading into premenopause, don’t wait until your skin issues worsen. A solid combination skin care guide will:
✔️ Keep your skin balanced
✔️ Reduce early signs of aging
✔️ Make you feel more confident every day
So what’s stopping you? Start your personalized skincare journey today!
Use the code WELCOME15 to save 15% off your order!
FAQs
1. How often should I exfoliate if I have combination skin?
For combination skin, exfoliate 2-3 times a week using either an AHA or gentle scrub to prevent buildup and improve texture.
2. Can I use retinol and vitamin C together?
Yes, but not in the same routine. Use Vitamin C in the morning and Retinol at night for the best results.
3. What’s the best moisturizer for combination skin in your 40s?
A lightweight but hydrating option like La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer balances both oily and dry areas.
4. Is it too late to start a skincare routine in my 40s?
Not at all! Starting in your 40s is perfect since skin changes significantly during premenopause.
5. What’s the most important skincare product for premenopausal women?
Retinol, Vitamin C, and SPF are essential for preventing wrinkles, sun damage, and dullness.
