How Our Skincare Routines Change Over Time

How Our Skincare Routines Change Over Time

01 April 2026

You likely didn't have a 10-step skincare routine in your 20s. And if you did, you likely didn't need one. As you get older, your skin changes, which is why skincare routines are meant to change over time. As you age and your skin matures, your skin will need different ingredients, formulas, and products.

 

Augustinus Bader recently surveyed over 1,000 women over age 35 living in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. In this article, we'll examine the survey results and take a closer look at how skincare routines change with age.

 

Moisturizers Transcend Age

 

No matter how old you are, a moisturizer is key to an effective skincare routine. It improves hydration, smoothes skin, and protects or repairs your skin's moisture barrier.

 

When asked which skincare product our survey respondents currently use, moisturizer came out on top for every age group. Over 90% of survey respondents reported using a moisturizer in their skincare routine. We also found that about 50% of respondents across all three age groups use their moisturizers at least twice a day.

 

Moisturizer is always essential in your skincare routine. However, the type of product you use may change over time. As your skin loses elasticity, you may find it requires a thicker and more hydrating formula than before. Always pay attention to how your skin changes over time so you can adjust your routine accordingly.

 

Skincare in Our 30s

 

Collagen production begins to slow down in your 30s, which causes more fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Our survey found that women between ages 35 and 44 usually include a moisturizer, cleanser, sunscreen, lip balm, and toner in their routine.

 

Most respondents in this age group follow a very regular skincare routine. Among respondents, 46% use a cleanser and moisturizer twice a day, and 48% apply sunscreen once a day. Products like serums, toners, and eye creams are typically used once a day on average.

 

The survey also found that 40% of respondents aged 35 to 44 are more inclined to invest in high-quality products and services. A luxury skincare routine with quality products can help maintain skin integrity and prevent signs of aging.

 

Fine lines and wrinkles become more prevalent in the early 40s, but committing to a routine in your early 30s can help you maintain a youthful appearance. High-end products with effective active ingredients can help slow signs of aging, lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. We recommend incorporating a moisturizer like The Rich Cream and an exfoliating toner like The Essence.

 

Skincare in Our 40s

 

Many individuals struggle with skin dryness and water retention in their 40s, which can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and sagging skin. Our survey results show that women between 45 and 54 wear more serums and eye creams than other age groups. These skincare products are designed to provide targeted care for your skin. However, individuals in their 30s would benefit the most from incorporating potent serums and eye creams into their routine. 

 

Serums are highly concentrated and typically contain active ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol. If your main concern is wrinkles and fine lines, consider adding a retinol serum, like The Retinol Serum, to your nighttime routine. Eye creams, like The Eye Cream, are designed to target the delicate under-eye skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots. Incorporating these two products into your skincare routine can help you target imperfections that individuals often face in their 40s.

 

Skincare in Our 50s and Beyond

 

As you reach your 50s, oil production starts to slow down, leading to skin dryness. Additionally, many women go through menopause during this time, which can decrease elastin and collagen, making the skin appear thinner. Some may also struggle with skin sensitivities, redness, and increased bruising.

 

Our survey found that respondents over 55 switched from using cleansers twice to once a day. However, lip balms are used more frequently, and moisturizers are still an everyday priority. The 55+ age group is also less willing to invest heavily in skincare and is less likely to have an evening routine.

 

While skin imperfections may become more visible and prevalent, this is a perfect opportunity to invest in quality skincare products with effective formulas. To help restore moisture loss and protect your skin barrier, consider switching to a luxury moisturizer like The Cream. The nourishing formula contains vitamins and amino acids that mature skin needs to stay hydrated.

 

Do the Qualities We Look for in Our Products Change Over Time?

 

Our survey revealed that individuals of all age groups value product quality, research and innovation, clinical and user trials, and results. When searching for skincare products to incorporate into your daily routine, it's always best to prioritize products supported by research and data. Additionally, it’s essential to confirm the formulas are suitable for your skin type and address your problem areas.

 

Explore Luxury Skincare with Augustinus Bader

 

Whether your current skincare routine doesn't target your concerns or you're struggling to find products that deliver results, Augustinus Bader is here to help. Our luxury skincare products are expertly formulated to deliver results and contain TFC8® technology, which helps improve the effectiveness of our formulas.

 

Shop our luxury skincare line today.