The best drugstore skincare for your 40s: a simple AM and PM routine

In your 40s, the basics still matter most: gentle cleansing, daily moisturizer, daily sunscreen, and one well-chosen treatment.

Your AM and PM routine

1. 
   Step 1Morning: cleanseCeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, 19 oz

   A hydrating, gentle cleanser with warm water. No scrubbing.

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2. 
   Step 2Morning: vitamin C serumTruSkin Vitamin C Serum

   Apply after washing, before sunscreen.

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3. 
   Step 3Morning: moisturizer with SPFCeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 (2-Pack)

   Moisturizer and SPF 30 in one. For long days outside, add a water-resistant SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours.

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4. 
   Step 4Night: cleanseCeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, 19 oz

   Wash off sunscreen and makeup before bed.

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5. 
   Step 5Night: retinolCeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

   Start every other night, 20 to 30 minutes after washing.

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6. 
   Step 6Night: moisturizeVanicream Moisturizing Cream, 16 oz

   A rich cream to finish and calm any dryness.

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Good to know

• Use one anti-aging treatment at a time. Layering several can irritate skin.
• Retinoids aren't for use during pregnancy.

Sources: AAD: skin care in your 40s and 50s · AAD: the order to apply skin care · AAD: when to apply vitamin C, retinoids and sunscreen · AAD: retinoid or retinol?