Turning 40 used to be seen as over the hill. But these days, 40 is looking better than ever. With advances in skincare and healthier lifestyles, 40 can be the start of your best decade yet. However, it also brings changes that call for new habits, like regular skin check. As per experts like Sundoctors Australia, when you reach 40, it’s the perfect time to make skin checks a normal part of your health routine. Here’s what you should know about caring for your skin in your 40s and why those check-ups matter.
Skin Changes More as Hormones Change
Many 40-somethings notice their skin acting differently, even if they still feel young. Why? Shifting hormone levels. In your 40s, estrogen and progesterone don’t remain as balanced. Oil glands produce less, while stress hormones like cortisol increase. This combination leads to drier, duller skin that’s prone to new issues like adult acne.
Your skin renewal cycle also slows down. Dead skin cells don’t shed as quickly. That allows a buildup that can make skin look rough. The good news? You can manage these changes with the right skincare routine. But first, you’ve got to know what’s going on with your skin, and routine checks help you stay aware.
Check for New Skin Cancer Risks
Many of us get a lot of sun exposure before we even turn 20. But skin cancer can take years to develop. That’s why skin checks become especially important in your 40s. Rates of melanoma and other skin cancers spike between ages 40-50. That cumulative sun exposure starts to show up. Areas like your face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, hands, and arms are vulnerable.
Skin checks allow dermatologists to look for early signs of skin cancer that you’d miss on your own. Spotting early makes treatment easier. So book a full-body check and learn what to watch for yourself between visits. Don’t ignore changes in moles or new growths. It’s not worth the risk.
Note Changes in Skin Texture
During skin checks, dermatologists also look for abnormal skin growths unrelated to sun exposure. These include:
- Actinic keratoses – Rough, scaly patches that can progress to skin cancer. More common after 40.
- Seborrheic keratoses – Wart-like growths that appear with aging skin. Usually harmless.
- Skin tags – Fleshy bits of hanging skin often emerging in skin creases. Annoying but not serious.
- Cherry angiomas – Red or purple papules caused by enlarged blood vessels. Generally cosmetic issues only.
Your dermatologist can tell the difference between worrisome and benign skin changes. Make notes of where any new growths pop up and point them out at your visit.
Assess Skin Dryness and Sensitivity
Thanks to shifting hormones, many 40-somethings battle dry, sensitive skin for the first time. Skin checks allow dermatologists to evaluate your moisture levels and allergy risks.
Flakiness, itchiness, redness, and tightness after cleansing or bathing indicate dryness. Contact allergies may emerge too, causing hives or eczema.
Discuss symptoms with your dermatologist, who can suggest gentle cleansers, thick creams, and products to improve your skin barrier. You may need to exfoliate more but avoid irritants.
Oral supplements like fish oils can also help reduce inflammation. Don’t just live with uncomfortable skin. Get a professional opinion.
Discuss the Best Anti-Aging Approaches
By your 40s, signs of aging like fine lines and sun spots become visible, especially around the eyes, mouth, and chest. Skin checks let you review options to reduce and prevent further aging.
Your dermatologist can determine if new topical products could help – like retinoids, vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids, or peptides. These ingredients increase collagen production and cell turnover for firmer, brighter skin.
For more dramatic results, your doctor may suggest professional treatments like laser resurfacing, chemical peels, ultrasound therapy, or filler injections to target wrinkles.
The right anti-aging plan depends on your symptoms, budget, and preferences. Skin checks help you map out the most strategic tactics. Don’t be shy about wanting to look as young as you feel.
Make Skin Checks Part of Your Routine
When you’re in your teens and 20s, annual skin checks seem like something you only need if an issue pops up. But consider making them regular appointments by age 40, even if your skin looks fabulous.
Aim for a full-body screening every year to monitor any changes. Come prepared with a list of questions and concerns. And be thorough in describing symptoms or differences you notice.
Conclusion
This practice can truly pay off. Catching problems early allows for better outcomes. And staying on top of your skin health just makes sense. Forty isn’t the new 20. But it can certainly be the beginning of looking and feeling better than ever before. Don’t leave it up to chance. Book your next skin check today.