WHAT YOU DO NEED:

A GOOD eye make-up remover or first cleanser. You may prefer thicker cream cleansers from your 40s onwards.

A LIGHTER textured cleanser for your morning cleanse or evenings as a second cleanse, where you aren’t typically removing make-up or SPF.

ACIDS. Glycolic, lactic or PHA acids (see box) can all join your kit from your mid-30s and are great for older skins.

A HYALURONIC-based facial mist. Your skin finds it harder to retain moisture from the mid-30s — this replaces that lost moisture. Do not spray plain water over your face: it is not the same.

A GOOD antioxidant serum. Spend your money here. Buy a good niacinamide/vitamin C/resveratrol etc., and use it daily.

A GOOD-quality hyaluronic product. You are more susceptible to transepidermal water loss (TEWL) from your mid-30s, so you will benefit from a daily dose of hyaluronic acid. Do not be fooled into buying a dirt-cheap one: it’s likely to be a single-ingredient, heavy hyaluronic acid that won’t really penetrate, so it’s a false economy.

FACIAL oil. Your quickest fix and your best friend.

EYE product. You will notice the need for these more from your mid-30s. Go for lighter textures such as gels or light creams if you have crepey eyes. Rich, thicker creams feel luxurious but are not favourable on an older face and will make your eyes puffy.

VITAMIN A/retinoid. A must. Your skin’s cell turnover is extremely slow from your 40s and beyond. Vitamin A is your best friend. Jump in.

A MOISTURISER suited to your skin type.

SPF. Do not forgo this critical step.