July 1, 2025

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Everything I Do for My Skin at 53: Products & Treatments That Work

Happy birthday to me—I’m 53 today! Since skincare questions come up often, I figured this was the perfect time to share everything I do to take care of my skin at this stage of life.

My approach has definitely evolved over the years. These days, it’s a mix of tried-and-true skincare products, professional treatments, and a few things I’ve tested and decided aren’t for me. Some are part of my daily routine, others I do every few months—but together, they help me feel good in my skin at 53.

This isn’t a prescription or a must-do list. Skincare is personal, and what works for me might not work for you—but if you’re curious about my current skincare routine over 50, plus the facials, treatments, and injectables I do (or don’t do anymore), here’s the full breakdown.

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, and it brightens, evens out skin tone, and supports collagen production. The addition of Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid helps protect against environmental stress, making it a great option for dull, uneven, or tired-looking skin. 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.

The DefenAge 8-in-1 BioSerum was suggested as a retinol alternative, and it’s really unique. It combines eight serums in one, for hydrating, brightening, firming, and helping with fine lines. It uses defensin molecules to activate your skin’s natural repair process instead of retinol, so it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin. It’s lightweight, made in the USA, and safe to use even on delicate areas like the neck and around the eyes. It’s also designed to work well before and after treatments like microneedling or laser.

And she suggested the DefenAge 6-Week Perfection Neck Cream when I mentioned the sagging skin on my neck and jawline. It is formulated to smooth fine lines and deeper folds, firms and tightens sagging skin, and improve texture and brightness. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and starts to show results in as little as two weeks, with full effects in six.

They’re definitely a splurge (especially that 8-in-1), 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 said I’ll just cover my rosacea with makeup, but I do go without makeup at least one or two days a week, and I’d like 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!

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118 Responses

    1. Hi Michele. Try this:

      Go to this page: https://substack.com/home

      click your image in the top right, and then select Settings.

      Scroll down to Notifications, and select Newsletter Delivery.

      Under Delivery preference, be sure “Prefer Email” or “Prefer Email and App” is checked.

      If “Prefer App” was checked, that would be the issue.

      If that is not the case, let me know. So sorry for the inconvenience!

  1. Well, first, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! 🙂 As a gal with sensitive, temperamental skin, I’ve always had to be pretty cautious about what products I use. I had a great skincare routine that I loved (Bare Minerals Ageless), but now my skin is changing (again!) and I’m having to find new products. Personally, I feel it has been really helpful to work with my dermatologist in this process. As far as treatments go, occasionally I have professional facials (like the traditional signature facial you mentioned). I’ve never had Thermage, but that’s one I would consider (no needles, non invasive), so thanks for mentioning it. 🙂

    1. Figured I should add this comment also – I’m an avid swimmer, so I am sure the constant chlorine bath my poor skin takes doesn’t help any. LOL! But, I love swimming so much I could live in the water; as is, I practically have gills… 😉

  2. Happy Birthday !! I too have started facials about every 6 weeks. I have also added in The Method by Dr Lancer, it’s been a total game changer for the texture of my skin. Just recently purchased his acid lime peel as well for in between my facials.

  3. Happy Birthday! Loved the skin care post. Was wondering if you ever used Tretinoin or if any of your current products contain retinol?

    1. Thank you! So yeah, I did. My derm gave me a prescription, but I was not consistent with it, and I don’t even know why. I am with just about everything else. She ended up giving me that 8-in-1 as an alternative.

  4. HBD! I really enjoy your skin care routine updates. Thanks for sharing. Gives me new ideas and things to try.

  5. Happy Birthday Jo-Lynne! I’m a July baby, too, turning 55 on 7/7. Just wanted you to know how much I appreciate all the work you put into your blog, Substack, and social media. Definitely my favorite follow!

  6. Happy birthday!!! 🎂🥂🎉 I read that the dreaded jawline issue is largely due to age-related bone loss rather than loss of skin firmness, which if true makes a solution more challenging. I’ve been using my gua sha tool for nearly a year; I think it’s made a significant difference, so keep that up!

  7. Happy Birthday! I hope you have a great day celebrating you!
    I am pretty consistent with my morning and evening routine when it comes to skin care! I don’t want to over due it with a line up of products but I focus on the cleansing, moisturizing and serums!
    In the summer a hat is a must ( I started that in my late 30’s) I try to keep the sun off my face… but I do use a foundation with built in SPF during the summer months…
    I wish I had switched to cleaner skin care in my 20’s but I guess it wasn’t around as much then🤷‍♀️! Just wish I knew then what I know now!
    Thanks for keeping us in the loop!

    1. Thanks, Karen! And yeah, my mom instilled good skincare habits in me at an early age. She used to buy me Lancome skincare products when I was in high school. But the idea of “clean” products was definitely not a thing.

  8. Hi Jolynn, thank you for a comprehensive post. Which 3 most effective products and 1 most effective procedure would you recommend to simplify the quotidian beauty regimen? Thank you.

    1. Ohhh good question. I would always cleanse and moisturize my face, so that only leaves 2 other products? I guess I’d say the ELEMIS cleansing balm (I was told once you can double cleanse with it, by making an emulsion with water for the 2nd pass, so sometimes I do that when traveling to save on bringing a 2nd cleanser) and the CeraVe PM because it can be used morning and night. But it is not heavy enough for me to use at night in the winter, I get so dry. So with the Replenix Nighttime Face Cream, there are three right there. That doesn’t cut it, though, b/c it leaves out sunscreen. And I would not want to be without a Vitamin C product. And I really would not want to be without the PCA toner, lol… So yeah, I can’t imagine only having 3 products.

      As for a procedure, that is easy. The glycolic peels are the most essential and basic procedure I do. That would be the one I would not want to give up.

      1. Are glycolic peels okay for sensitive skin? (The thought of chemicals peeling on my face scares me but if it works I might be open to it)

        1. Yes, as long as you go to someone who knows what they’re doing. They can adjust the concentration, we play around with it, depending on how my skin reacted the previous time. It can be a tad drying, but when she has the right formula, I don’t have any issues.

  9. You used to use Colleen Rothschild products when I first started following you. How do you feel about that brand currently and would you still recommend? I realize they are not part your sponsorships but wondering if you feel these products are still quality serums and oils/creams. Thanks so much!

    1. Yeah, I’ve kind of gotten away from using Colleen Rothschild products over the years, but I have no reason to think they aren’t still great quality. I just ended up loving the ELEMIS cleansing balm more than the CR one, and then I switched to other serums my dermatologist recommended. That said, I remember really liking a few of her oils and serums when I used them. There are so many good products out there, it’s hard to stick to just a few!

      Just to clarify, I’m not sponsored by any of the brands I’ve mentioned in this post. I do use affiliate links when I share them (and I’d happily take a sponsorship if they offered—ha!). But if I were ever being paid to talk about a brand, I’d always let you know. 🙂

  10. Hi. HBD! I don’t usually comment but I did want to share my experience with VBeam. I have rosacea and broken capillaries too. I had great results from my 3 series of VBeam but I did want to mention that there was, for me at least, definite “down time”. I had significant bruising spots and swelling all over my face. The last in the series I told her to really go for it and she did! Bruises that time lasted 3-4 weeks. Maybe the swelling was just extra for me?? She did start giving me prednisone for swelling every time. I am not a medical expert but if you are worried about down time and how you might photograph ( I don’t put my face out there daily so not a big deal for me)
    I would discuss with your derm and maybe do some research on it. It was overall worth it for me I will say. Maybe it depends on how hard she goes?

    1. Just to put out a slightly different experience for me. I also did laser for my face several times. Each time I had minimal swelling that lasted one day – so minimal that I’m not sure anyone else noticed. I did get small bruises on the areas where she zapped my broken capillaries, which lasted a few days but it was worth it to me – my nose was starting to look like an Irish drunk’s! I’ve been very happy with my experience.

    2. That is interesting, and I’m definitely going to talk to her about that. Since I swelled with the filler, I am afraid I might have an issue with this too. I’ll have to schedule it when I dno’t need to do any photoshoots for a week or two.

  11. Happy Birthday to you! You look fabulous! I will hit the big 6-0 later this year, but I am not dreading it. My skin has always been sensitive & prone to breakouts (yes, even at 59!) I switched my makeup routine from foundation & I use a tinted moisturizer instead (it’s been great!) I also swapped out pricey makeup removers for good ol’ Neutrogena original soap to remove my makeup. My skin has never looked better! Go figure! I still splurge on Colleen Rothschild sheer lotion, but also alternate days with Cerave light lotions too. But I have truly been amazed that an inexpensive but tried-and-true soap for acne-prone skin works better than the pricey balms & other cleansers I’d been using.

  12. Happy birthday! I have a few of the products you use when you recommended them previously. I am 71, and I only started a skin care routine recently. Thank you to you and the other bloggers I follow. I started getting regular facials, and I do think it helps my skin. Better late than never. No procedures, but that’s just me. No judgment for those who do. Whatever makes each of us feel better about ourselves.
    I definitely feel better about myself reading your blog, and others, about caring for myself and thinking more about what styles work for me. Thank you!

  13. Happy Birthday, Jo-Lynne! Taking notes on all your skin advice. I have followed you consistently for years. Have a wonderful holiday weekend! 💙❤️

  14. Happy Birthday Jo-Lynne!
    Really enjoyed this post and the Nordstrom Beauty recommendations post!
    Enjoy your day!!

  15. Happiest of birthday wishes from me to you! I hope you enjoy your day and your afternoon off with your daughter 🙂
    My beauty routine is something I take very seriously. I worked for Clinique for several years and their application methods and routines taught me well. Although I’ve transitioned to spa/medical grade skincare mostly now, those habits have remained. I never sleep with make up on. I can’t! Morning routine: rinse with cool water, apply Vintner’s Daughter hydration spray, apply Vintner’s Daughter serum. This serum replaces so many products in my former line up. I have it on subscription order where every 5th set is complimentary. A little dollop of Eminence monoi cream to face and neck as well as an eye cream under the eye only. Currently in summer I am using Colorscience Flex tinted SPF and I add a tiny dot of Supergoop glow screen in sunset to give a little deeper tint. Nightly, the one Clinique product I still use is pink Rinse off foaming cleanser to remove my make up. I always double cleanse even if I’ve only worn SPF that day, then pomegranate enzyme face wash from SkinOwl. Trentenoin (prescription), Vintner’s Daughter serum, Lash serum and lash conditioner are next, eye cream, Eminence monoi cream is next and on the dry winter nights I also add a light layer of Anfisa An-Balm before bed. I also apply all of those to the backs of my hands as well and my chest!
    As for things outside of my bathroom, I add dysport to my forehead and I’ve started doing a lip flip. This is because I too am scared to inject fillers. The lip flip is perfect for me! Every 6 weeks I faithfully get a facial. I don’t use trentinoin for a couple days prior so she can go to town on exfoliation and deep stuff. She’d like to do hydrofacials on me more but I honestly don’t care for them! During fall laser season I usually do BBL at my dermatologist office, but this fall we’re taking it a step further and I’m doing Halo and to say I’m excited for my October appt to roll around would be an understatement! I spend about 5 min in the morning and about 8 min in the evening doing my skincare. It’s a peaceful ritual for me that my soul loves. I also will say there are two things that will be pried from my dead hands upon leaving this earth…. Vintner’s Daughter products and Dysport. WHEW!!!

    1. It sounds like you really have your routine down. I used Vintner’s Daughter serum for a time and loved how it smelled and felt. I wonder what my derm would say about it. I will try to remember to ask her.

      I want to know more about the lip flip! Off to Google…

  16. Happy Birthday Jo-Lynne!!
    I love the skin care recommendations. I use ZO products and have been happy with them but always interested in new ideas.

  17. I like Timeless Coq10 serum as well, I use it in the morning and follow with P. Calm sunscreen Spf 50, Clinique eye cream and then Neutrogena Radiant Tinted Face Moisturizer, Sheer Fair 20. I only recently discovered the P. Calm and absolutely love it–was on a Dr. Dray video–its a Korean sunscreen–no white cast and blends with other things and moisturizing! At night I wash my face with Basis soap–a superfatted soap that works on my dry sensitive skin–no double cleansing necessary! I adore Clinique rinse off eye make up remover (blue bottle), Cerave eye cream, Olay Retinol 24 max 5 nights a week and then I switch to a different moisturizer–sometimes Clinique moisture mask. Oh, and I’ve been using Exuviance Age Reverse+ Toning Neck Cream for years now–it works! Just at night.
    I just turned 70 but am always complimented on my skin and people are always guessing me in my early 50s–lol, I have a 40 yr old daughter! So, something is working! Consistency is the key!

    1. There are quite a few products in there I’m curious about. I’ll look into them. I think you are right that consistency is key. There are so many good products out there now, and it’s always tempting to try something else, but I think choosing a few and sticking with them is best practice.

    2. Love Dr Dray and think she’s super knowledgeable about skin care, less is more:)) Especially for someone with sensitive skin like myself.

  18. Happy Birthday🎈🎈🎉🎉🎉

    Your skin looks great! I am 65, do you really see a difference using vitamin c?

  19. I love this! I have added vitamin C bronzer serum to AM routine. Which is a big step for me, because I’m basically a wash, sunscreen and lip balm or gloss kind of girl. but after having a facial after my 50th birthday. The aesthetician recommended vitamin C as part of my AM routine and weekly retinol as part of my PM routine. I try do a facial 2 x year at the end winter and the beginning of fall. I also agree that Skin care routines a personal. But it’s nice to share what your doing to help others find products.

    1. That sounds like a good plan for keeping it simple, and choosing the most effective products. If I was to scale back, those are the two I would definitely keep in my routine.

  20. Happy birthday – Vbeam is one of the greatest things i have done for my rosacea. I can’t recommend it enough. If I had the money I would do it monthly! In my opinion, It feels similar to a small rubber band snapping on the area of the face and then it’s done. I was scared at first, and then I loved it the results so much I decided I couldn’t live without it. I have some broken blood vessels that just keep coming back around my nose and I like to be more natural with makeup so covering it up is rather difficult. Rosacea is really just not fun. Keep us posted if you decide to try it out.

    1. That is awesome, thanks for sharing! I am definitely going to try it. I’ll find out how long after the Thermage I need to wait, b/c that appt is already scheduled.

  21. Happy birthday, Jo-Lynne! I turned 76 last month, and am an admitted skincare junkie. When I was still working, I got fillers somewhat regularly (Radiesse, Juvederm, Voluma at different times, not all together!) and Botox a couple of times. But 10 years into retirement, I’m focusing on skin care. I currently use a combination of Paula’s Choice “Resist” products, and ZO Skincare that I get from my aesthetician doctor’s office. (ZO is Dr. Obagi’s newer product line.)I love the HydraFacialMD and try to get one quarterly.
    I enjoy your emails and Substacks. And, again, happy birthday!

    1. Thanks, Pearl! And thanks for sharing what you do. My mom is a big fan of Dr. Obagi’s line. I’ll ask my derm about the ZO Skincare. It sounds like a few of you all like that line.

  22. Wishing you a blessed birthday, full of love and joy! I know it was a rough weather afternoon and evening, so I hope that didn’t ruin any celebration plans!! Your skin care post is very helpful and insightful. Thanks for sharing it all. I also look forward to all your Nordstrom Anniversary Sale picks. Have a great holiday week!

    1. Thanks, Sue! We were at the mall when the first storm came through, and we were home when the next one hit. Thankfully we were planning to go out to dinner last night instead of on the 1st. Last night was beautiful.

  23. Happy Birthday, Jo-Lynne! Thanks for the skincare info. Hope you had a great day with your daughter!

  24. Happy Birthday Jo-Lynne! It’s also one of my favorite people in the world birthday too, my DAD…
    Thank you for all of the work that you do. I look forward to your post everyday…

  25. Happy Birthday!

    I truly appreciate your transparency! Both around what procedures you’ve gotten and which posts are sponsored … it sets this blog apart from almost all others I read.

    I don’t do much with skin care / make up besides wash my face and put on an facial oil – but I don’t look as good either 🙂

  26. HBD Jo-Lynne! I love skincare and everything associated with it, LOL. I’ve read everyone’s comments, and I am taking notes 🥰

  27. I started using Isdin Melatonik serum this year and I have to say I am a fan. It’s pricy but my 61-year-old skin is looking great after a few months of nightly use. (I get comments on how young I look.) It’s milder than a retinol/retinal, which was irritating for me. I follow it with an eye cream (Neocutis Lumiere Firm Riche), and then Cerave PM—all recommended by my dermatologist. Occasionally, when I think of it, I use Paula’s Choice liquid exfoliant as a first step.

  28. Thank you for sharing all your skin care info. I’m always curious what others close to my age are doing and using. I’ve been using tretinoin off and on forever. I started it in my 20s for acne and now I use it for wrinkle prevention. Two things I’ve started in the last 9 months or so that I think are making a big difference in combination with each other are using a red light therapy mask several times a week and using Alloy’s M4 estriol cream. I was hesitant to try the M4 cream but after seeing Angie Hot & Flashy’s review I decided to try it. It’s a very nice cream and I can see a visible improvement. I recently saw my niece for the first time in at least a year and she said she thought I was reverse aging! Sweet words indeed!

  29. I have rosacea and have had several IPL/VBeam treatments. They make a huge difference, but it can cause swelling for a day or two. Nothing crazy, but something to be aware of. The results are completely worth it. I go for a touchup or two every year.

      1. I just finished my second round of Vbeam on Monday. The first time there was no downtime. This time he went deeper, and I’m glad I’m off work for the summer because the bruising is significant. Google “purpura after Vbeam” to get an idea.

  30. I find it so interesting to hear about what other women over 50 are doing with their skincare. Thank you for sharing. I have such a simple routine so I’m feeling like I might need to step it up and try some of your products! One of my biggest issues right now is dry skin: on my face and body. I’m going to talk to my dermatologist about some of these treatments you have mentioned. I’ve had a hydra facial a few times in the past year and felt it improves the texture a bit. I’m curious why your dermatologist doesn’t like them. Can you explain in more detail? The only “procedure” I do is Botox 3 times a year for crows feet and the elevens. Oh my goodness, do you ever feel like it’s hard to keep up with combating the signs of aging? 🙃🤣 I know I do!!

  31. I am keeping this post for future reference, super helpful. I’m 56 and have an encompassing job and need to make time for this. Thank you!!

  32. I forgot to add that I do an exfoliation once a week. I think its super important. I have sensitive skin so I do the Clinique 7-day scrub each Saturday. Also, I meant to say I do the neck cream as part of my morning routine, not night — and I put that P Calm sunscreen over it. I have never had botox or peels or any office procedures. I’d be too nervous with my sensitive skin! I also do think that genetics play a roll with bones in the face and where the muscles are attached. Even though I am fair, born blonde and blue eyes–I have high cheek bones and I grew up with the classic baby face that I hated when I was younger–but now reap the reward. I enjoy reading others routines and would be interested in seeing peoples health regimens i.e. supplements and exercise routines–along with the great fashion ideas here! I applaud that outfits presented are easier to find then they are on some tv podcasts. Thank-you Jo-Lynne!

  33. Just beautiful! Happy Birthday and LOVE your posts.
    Can you share your eye make-up in this post? Gentle shades of brown and taupe. Just perfect!
    Thanks!
    -Janet

  34. Thank you so much for being so honest and real in this post. I appreciate the more affordable options you list in many of your posts as well.

    Happy Birthday!

  35. Happy birthday Jo-Lynne. Many happy returns!! Also, thanks for the skincare info-much appreciated.

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