06/12/2025
I turned 42 this weekend and, hangover included — will I ever learn? Unlikely — I do feel like I’ve finally cracked what works for my skin. This is what I actually do:
The basics:
Cleanse properly.
Take my makeup off 99% of the time.
Antioxidant in the morning.
SPF every day, even if I’m in a windowless clinic room from dawn to dusk.
Peptides twice a day.
A moisturiser that actually supports my barrier.
Prescription retinol used at a pace my skin tolerates.
I no longer ignore my neck and hands — they get the same care as my face now.
I recognise that all the regenerative treatments in the world are partly undermined by destructive lifestyle choices, so I do try to moderate how much I abuse my cells — primarily with chocolate.
I’m also taking collagen supplements — I’m sent a fair few — but I’m still undecided. I may try a month without to see if my face falls off, because I’m only interested in steps that genuinely earn their place.
There are more things I’d consider, but I’d need a body double to create more diary time, so I’ve parked them for now.
And the usual clinic work:
– Botox 3–4 times a year, with natural movement returning between visits.
– Polynucleotides, Profhilo and microneedling for texture and hydration.
– Strategic filler for subtle volume where it’s softened.
– One deep peel a year as a reset.
Excessive for some, perhaps — but we’re all different. I have absolutely no interest in spending hours training for Hyrox; midlife shows up differently for everyone. This just happens to be how I look after myself.
