The Secret to My Glow at 40+ (And It's Not Skincare)
I get asked almost every week what my skincare routine is and what products I use to keep my skin looking healthy.
The answer usually surprises people.
My glow doesn't come from an expensive serum, a fancy treatment, or the latest beauty trend. In fact, I believe most of it comes from what I don't do and the way I choose to live my life.
I'm in my 40s, I have two teenage boys, and I've spent years figuring out what works for me through trial and error. This isn't advice for everyone. We all have different lifestyles, priorities, and preferences. I'm simply sharing what has worked for me.
What I Don't Do
I Don't Get My Nails Done
I prefer natural nails.
Years ago, I experimented with painting them myself, but they always chipped. Between gardening, cooking, and everyday life, maintaining polished nails felt like another task on my to-do list.
Now I keep them bare and simple. They're practical, healthy, and require almost no maintenance.
I Don't Dye My Hair
I have some gray hairs coming in and I've decided to let them stay.
Growing older is a privilege, and I don't feel the need to hide every sign of aging. I actually think silver strands can look beautiful, especially against dark hair.
Many brands have offered to send me hair dye for free, but I always decline. Even if it cost nothing, it's simply not something I'm interested in doing.
I Don't Get Botox or Cosmetic Procedures
I've been offered cosmetic treatments as part of my work as an influencer, but I've always said no.
I want to age as myself.
I want to see the natural progression of my face and my body over time. Aging isn't failing. It's evolving. Every wrinkle, gray hair, and laugh line tells part of the story of a life being lived.
The Lifestyle Habits That Matter More Than Products
I Don't Smoke and I Rarely Drink
This is one of the biggest factors in my overall health.
I drink plenty of water throughout the day and enjoy tea as well. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest things you can do for your skin.
I Eat a Lot of Fiber
Years ago, while preparing for an acting role, I focused on adding more vegetables to my diet instead of restricting food.
I aimed for four cups of raw vegetables a day.
The difference was incredible.
My hormonal acne improved, my digestion improved, and I felt healthier overall. Today I still prioritize fiber-rich foods like vegetables, beans, chickpeas, and chia pudding.
When I'm hungry, I reach for nourishing foods instead of highly processed snacks.
I Grow Some of My Own Food
My vegetable garden provides lettuce, kale, Swiss chard, herbs, and more.
Gardening gives me fresh food, gentle exercise, and a hobby that brings me joy. It connects me to the seasons and encourages me to spend more time outdoors.
I Make My Own Fermented Foods
Instead of buying expensive probiotic drinks, I make my own kombucha, tepache, and fermented vegetables.
They're affordable, simple to make, and help support gut health.
While no food is a miracle cure, I do believe that taking care of your body from the inside often shows on the outside.
Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable
One of my biggest skincare habits has nothing to do with skincare products.
I stay out of direct sun whenever possible.
You'll almost always find me wearing a hat during the summer. At the pool or beach, I often wear long-sleeved swimwear to reduce sun exposure and use less sunscreen overall.
I still enjoy being outside, but I don't spend time intentionally tanning.
Movement Matters
I walk every day.
My husband and I often take multiple walks together throughout the day, and I aim for around 10,000 steps daily.
Walking helps reduce stress, improves circulation, and supports overall health.
I also started strength training after seeing how important muscle and bone density become as we age.
Strong bodies support us as we get older, and that strength contributes to how we look and feel.
A Low-Stress Lifestyle Helps
One thing people rarely talk about in beauty conversations is stress.
My husband and I paid off our mortgage early. We avoid unnecessary debt. We don't chase every trend or feel pressure to constantly buy more.
Living below our means gives us peace of mind.
Better sleep, less stress, and more contentment affect far more than our bank account. They influence our health, our energy, and even the way we carry ourselves.
Hobbies Make Life Richer
I love gardening, cooking, sewing, and creating.
Having hobbies gives me something meaningful to focus on outside of work and responsibilities.
When you're busy making something, growing something, or learning something, you're spending less time comparing yourself to other people online.
That's good for your mental health, and I think it shows.
My Actual Skincare Routine
People are often surprised by how simple my skincare routine is.
Every morning:
Splash my face with water
Apply a hydrating serum
Apply sunscreen SPF 50
Every evening:
Cleanse my face
Apply moisturizer
Seal in moisture with a balm or facial oil
That's it.
I've followed a variation of this routine for nearly 20 years.
Aging Is a Privilege
As women, we're often told that aging is something to fight against.
I don't believe that.
I hope I get to watch my children build their lives. I hope I get to become a grandmother someday. I hope I get many more years of gardening, cooking, laughing, and spending time with the people I love.
Beauty is nice, but I would rather be remembered as kind, compassionate, curious, and caring.
I don't want to spend my life chasing a younger version of myself.
I'd rather spend it living fully.
And if a healthy glow comes along for the ride, that's just a bonus.
