Everything I Do for My Skin at 53

My Morning Skincare Routine at 53

My morning skincare routine is pretty simple, but consistent. I focus mostly on hydration and SPF, and I recently added two products to help lift and firm the skin on my face and neck.

Step 1: Cleanser
Most mornings I just splash my face with water, but if my skin feels like it needs a little extra, I’ll use a gentle cleanser like the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser.

Step 2: Vitamin C Serum
This is the one step I never skip. I’ve been using the Timeless Skin Care 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum for years. It was recommended by Angie at Hot & Flashy. It helps brighten and even out skin tone, and it’s one of the more affordable options on the market. You can also find it at Amazon and Target.

Step 3: Serums
I usually follow up with the Timeless Skin Care Coenzyme Q10 Serum for extra moisture, but I’ve recently started using two new products recommended by my dermatologist: DefenAge 8-in-1 BioSerum and DefenAge 6-Week Perfection Neck Cream. She suggested them when I asked about firming up my neck and jawline. They’re definitely a splurge, but she says they’re very effective, so I’ve been using them consistently in hopes of avoiding more invasive procedures down the road.

Step 4: Moisturizer
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is another longtime favorite (and Hot & Flashy rec). It layers well under sunscreen and makeup, doesn’t feel greasy, and it’s super affordable. You can find it at almost any drugstore, as well as Amazon and Ulta.

I also really like the ELEMIS Ultra Smart Pro-Collagen Day Cream. It’s thick and rich, and it smells divine. I didn’t think it was making a huge difference until I ran out and switched back to CeraVe. Lately, I’ve noticed more texture issues, so I may repurchase it the next time it’s on sale.

Step 5: Sunscreen
I’ve been using ISDIN Eryfotona 100% Mineral Tinted Sunscreen ever since my dermatologist recommended it a few years ago. It’s a lightweight mineral SPF 50+ that melts into the skin, evens out tone with a subtle tint, and leaves no white cast. It also contains DNA repair enzymes to help protect and repair sun damage. I keep it on auto-order from Amazon, but it’s also available at Sephora and on the ISDIN website.

Optional – Exfoliation (3–4x/week)
I keep the Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment in my shower and use it a few times a week. It has just the right amount of grit to clear out pores, plus fruit enzymes and lactic acid to exfoliate gently. Honey and aloe help keep it from feeling harsh, and my skin always looks extra glowy afterward. This is another one I have on auto-order at Amazon, or you can find it at Nordstrom or Sephora.

My Evening Skincare Routine at 53

Evenings are when I take a little more time with my skincare. It’s when I focus on cleansing, repairing, and using active treatments, and I try to follow this routine every night. If I’m in a rush, I’ll skip the serums, but I always wash my face before bed. Even on days I don’t wear makeup, I usually have sunscreen on, and honestly, I just like how it feels to cleanse and moisturize my face before I go to sleep.

Step 1: Eye Makeup Remover
I’ve used the Almay Eye Makeup Remover Pads for years because they’re gentle, effective, and inexpensive. Plus, they don’t count as a liquid when traveling! I buy the travel size and refill it from my larger stash.

Step 2: Cleanser
The ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is my go-to for removing makeup, SPF, and anything the day left behind. It smells amazing—like a spa in a jar. If I’ve worn heavier makeup, I’ll follow up with the Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash for a double cleanse, but most nights I just stick with the balm. It’s available on the ELEMIS website, Amazon and Nordstrom.

Step 3: Toner
I always follow up with the PCA Skin Hydrating Toner. Lindsey (The Motherchic) introduced me to it, and I absolutely love how it smells and makes my skin feel. It gently removes any leftover debris, boosts hydration, and helps prevent free radical damage. I keep it on auto-order at Amazon, but you can also find it on the PCA Skin website.

Step 4: Serums
At night, I repeat the DefenAge 8-in-1 BioSerum and DefenAge 6-Week Perfection Neck Cream to target firming along my neck and jawline. In the winter months, when my skin gets especially dry, I also add in the Revision Skincare Hydrating Serum for an extra layer of moisture.

I’ve also started using a gua sha right after applying the DefenAge serum, in a further attempt to combat that saggy jawline. It’s also supposed to help with puffiness and lymphatic drainage. I don’t know about that, but it feels calming, and it doesn’t add much time to my routine, so I’ll stick with it for a while .

Step 5: Moisturizer
I have very dry skin, and the Replenix Age Restore Nighttime Therapy Face Cream is hands-down my favorite night cream. It’s thick, rich, and incredibly moisturizing—no strong scent, just deeply nourishing ingredients that improve elasticity, texture, fine lines, and skin tone. I never travel without it; I even keep a travel size version on hand.

Optional Extras:
A couple of nights a week I’ll use an eye cream, and if I remember, I also like the LANEIGE lip sleeping mask, but I don’t stress about it.

Spa Facials & Treatments I’ve Tried

I see an esthetician at a local spa every few months for a facial, and if I’m traveling and spot a great spa, I’ll often book something there too. It’s one of my favorite ways to care for my skin and relax a little.

Glo2Facial (formerly Geneo) – My Favorite
This is hands-down my favorite facial treatment. It combines exfoliation, oxygenation, and infusion, and my skin always looks noticeably plumper and brighter. There’s no downtime, and it leaves my face feeling incredibly hydrated and refreshed. I usually add on dermaplaning when I book this one, and my skin feels as smooth as a baby’s bottom afterward!

Hydrafacial
I’ve tried this a few times, and while it’s not my personal favorite, it’s a great option if you want a deep clean and glow. It uses a suction wand to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate. My skin feels smooth and looks clearer afterward, but my current esthetician isn’t a big fan of these. She prefers the Glo2Facial, and I think I do too.

Korean “Needle-Free Filler” Facial
This is a newer method designed to simulate the results of injectable filler using a combination of light peel, LED, and electrical muscle stimulation to firm and lift the skin. There’s also an optional plasma add-on that’s said to boost product absorption. I tried it once out of curiosity, and it felt nice and hydrating, but I didn’t notice dramatic results. I might try it again sometime, but it’s not a must for me.

Traditional Signature Facial
Sometimes I just want something simple and relaxing, so I’ll book a classic facial with massage and deep hydration. It’s a great option when my skin feels tired or overwhelmed. This is usually what I go for when I’m traveling and trying out a new spa—unless they’re known for something more unique.

Local friends: I go to DeMay Day Spa in Royersford. Ask for Maygon and tell her I sent you!

Professional Skincare Treatments I Get in My 50s

Along with my at-home routine, I also rely on a few professional treatments to support my skin as it ages. I haven’t tried a ton of different things—honestly, I’m a bit of a scaredy-cat. I don’t love needles, I don’t like pain, and I definitely don’t have time to be down for days while my skin recovers. That said, I try not to go overboard, but there are a few things I do regularly that I think make a noticeable difference.

Glycolic Acid Peel at the Dermatologist (Every 2 Months)
This is one of my favorite treatments for keeping my skin smooth and bright. I get it done at my dermatologist’s office every two months, and I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in texture and clarity. It’s quick, the results are immediate, and best of all, there’s no downtime.

Botox (Every 4–6 Months)
Botox is administered via a few tiny injections that temporarily relax the muscles responsible for frown lines and wrinkles—like the “11s” between the brows, forehead lines, and crow’s feet.

I’ve been doing Botox for a few years now, mostly to soften the horizontal lines across my forehead. Occasionally, my dermatologist will add a few injections in my chin to help with the “orange peel” texture that can show up with age. I don’t go for a frozen look—just enough to look a little more rested. When it starts to wear off, I notice I look more tired and a bit haggard, which is what nudges me to go back.

Thermage
Thermage is a one-hour, in-office procedure that uses radiofrequency to stimulate collagen for smoother, tighter skin on the face and neck. The results are subtle but noticeable over time, so it’s more of a long game—but unlike many laser treatments, there’s no downtime, which is a huge bonus.

I had Thermage done almost five years ago, and I’m going back for another treatment this fall. Lately, I’ve been noticing the skin around my chin and neck starting to sag, and I’m hoping this will help.

Local friends: I see Dr. Christine Sciara in West Chester and have for years. I trust her completely and really appreciate her gradual approach. She performs all the procedures herself, even the glycolic peels, and likes to see you at every visit. She also takes notes and photos, so she truly gets to know your skin and understand how you want to look.

A Few Bonus Mentions

These are a few of the more invasive options I’ve either tried and don’t plan to do again, or am still on the fence about.

Dermal Fillers
I’ve tried filler twice. (Injectable fillers, like Juvederm, use hyaluronic acid to add volume where deep lines form around the mouth and under the eyes, or to add fullness in the lips.) I wanted it to soften the deep creases in my cheeks and lift the jowls I’m starting to develop, as well as to add volume around my eyes. (But not directly in the tear troughs. I was too nervous to go that far.)

Both times, I had what I believe was a mild allergic reaction. My face became itchy and swollen in the areas where the filler was injected. It eventually went away, and I did like the results once the swelling subsided, but the second reaction was worse than the first, so now I’m a little nervous about what might happen next time.

Also? I really detest the procedure. The cannula goes deep into the skin—it’s not like Botox with tiny pricks—it just felt really invasive and stressful. I told you, I’m a big baby!

I might try a very subtle lip injection someday because my lips are quite thin, but I’m nervous about another reaction and definitely don’t want duck lips. I do trust Dr. Sciara to keep it natural, so… I never say never. But for now, I don’t have any immediate plans.

V-Beam (Pulsed Dye Laser)
This is one I want to try. It’s a non-invasive laser treatment that targets redness, broken capillaries, sun damage, and rosacea. It uses pulses of high-intensity light to treat problem areas without damaging surrounding skin.

Dr. Sciara has been recommending it for a while, and I think I’m finally ready to give it a try. I’ve always just covered my rosacea with makeup, but I do go without makeup at least one or two days a week—and I think it would be nice to see how much of a difference this treatment could make. I’ll report back if (or when) I try it!

Don’t Forget Your Hands

One of my little habits: after finishing my skincare routine, I rub any leftover moisturizer or serum into the backs of my hands. It’s quick, easy, and feels like a nice way to make the most of the product.

More recently, I’ve added a dedicated hand treatment to the mix: Soft Services Theraplush, a rich, overnight hand cream I apply just before bed. I really do think it’s helping. The skin on the backs of my hands was starting to look dry and crepey, and it’s already looking and feeling smoother. I’ll be curious to see how it holds up once we get back into winter.

Final Thoughts

Everyone’s skin is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all routine—especially as we get older. If you’re navigating skincare over 50, I hope this gives you some helpful ideas, from daily products to professional treatments that have worked well for me.

And just a quick note: I know skincare and aesthetic treatments can be a sensitive topic. We all approach aging differently, and that’s okay. This post is simply a personal look at what I do, not a recommendation or a judgment either way. I just ask that the comments stay respectful. No lectures or shaming, please. But if you’ve found something you love, I’d love to hear about it!