It seems only fair that the onset of wrinkles would banish acne once and for all. But so many of us over 40 experience dry skin and fine lines right alongside acne-prone skin.

Caring for our skin as we age requires balance. Here are some nutritional, lifestyle and skincare tips to help manage complex skin beautifully.

Nutrition

Hydration is essential! Drink plenty of water and enjoy hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and celery that help quench thirsty dry skin.

Avocados, nuts, and olive oil have healthy fats that keep skin supple and elastic—super important as we age.

Reduce inflammation and amplify skin's role as a barrier with Omega-3 fatty acids. Sources include flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Foods rich in beta-carotene which converts into Vitamin A (carrots, spinach) help new cells grow and reduce blemishes. Vitamin C (peppers, strawberries, citrus) may help deter wrinkles. Vitamin E (almonds and spinach) is an antioxidant that helps prevent skin damage.

Avoid foods with refined sugars and dairy, both of which can worsen acne and the visible signs of aging.

Lifestyle

Go back to bed. Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. When we sleep poorly, cortisol increases, worsening facial lines and acne.

Combine stress reduction with exercise. Pairing these two goals improves circulation which promotes healthy skin, while also reducing cortisol. Choose exercise that makes you happy – dance, pickleball, nature hikes, swimming. Remember to cleanse after exercise to remove sweat from pores.

Speaking of cleansing, stick with a sulfate-free, hydrating cleanser that removes dirt without stripping oils. Harsh scrubs are not your friend.

Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep skin dewy without blocking pores.

Steer clear of aggressive ingredients like alcohol or other astringents which can dry and irritate skin.

Sunscreen! Sun exposure ages skin and can cause breakouts. But you already know this. SPF 30+

Let nature give your skin a boost. Supplements can help improve skin health and vitality. Astaxanthin boosts immunity and reduces inflammation. Lutemax brightens complexion and improves eye health. Irish Sea Moss restores skin and protects it from environmental mayhem. Vidaful KannaVida Radiance combines these botanicals with the South African botanical, kanna, which eases tension, to nourish skin from within. Probiotics are another great way to manage inflammation by improving gut health and immunity.

Caring for aging skin can be complicated, dry and oily, with both fine lines and acne. We cannot always rely on the same practices we did when we were younger. But, when we treat ourselves and our skin with gentle balance, inside and out, we can’t help but be luminous.