Your 12 Most Asked Skincare Questions Answered
Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, the simpler and more consistent your routine, the better results you’ll see. Over the years, I’ve received countless questions from women in their 40s who feel like their skin has suddenly changed and they’re not sure what to do about it. Today, I’m answering your most common skincare questions, so you can feel clear, confident, and excited about your routine again.
1. What’s a basic skincare routine?
You only need three steps: cleanse, hydrate, and nourish. That means a gentle cleanser, a hydrating essence or serum, and a nourishing oil or cream to lock everything in. Anything beyond that is optional. Less is more; consistency is what really pays off. This is a good guideline for any age. In the mornings, when the UV index is 3 or higher, also apply an SPF 30 or higher. Read more on how to build your skincare routine here.
2. How can I reduce puffiness?
Puffiness is usually linked to fluid retention, lack of sleep, or sluggish circulation. A gua sha or simple face massage in the morning can work wonders to move lymphatic fluid. Cold compresses, plenty of water, and reducing salt and alcohol also help.
3. How do I treat adult acne flare-ups?
Acne in your 40s is often tied to hormones and stress. Keep your routine gentle; harsh scrubs and drying products can make things worse. Look for soothing, barrier-strengthening ingredients like niacinamide and fermented oats, and avoid overloading your skin with too many actives. More on how to ease adult acne here.
4. What’s the best cleanser?
The best cleanser is one that removes impurities and your makeup without stripping your skin. Oil-to-milk cleansers are wonderful because they dissolve makeup, SPF and any daily grime and dirt but still respect your skin barrier, leaving your skin soft, not tight. Read more about the benefits of oil cleansing here.
5. Do I need an eye cream?
Not necessarily. A well-formulated serum or face oil can work just as well around your eyes. If your eyes are very sensitive, you may prefer an eye cream designed for that delicate area, but it’s not essential. All Jenny Nordic products can be used up to the eye, and I always recommend massaging them to your décolleté as well!
6. Does anti-ageing skincare work?
“Anti-ageing” is mostly a marketing term. No cream can turn back time, but good skincare can absolutely support your skin as it changes, boosting hydration, strengthening your barrier, softening fine lines, and giving you that healthy glow. Rather than thinking about anti-ageing your skin, concentrate on skin health. It'll help your skin look and feel its best at every stage.
7. What’s gua sha?
Gua sha is an ancient Chinese technique using a flat stone tool to massage the body. Facial gua sha is gentler and modernised version of the ancient healing technique. It boosts circulation, helps reduce puffiness, supports lymphatic drainage, and releases muscle tension. Over time, it can help your skin look more lifted, glowing, and refreshed. You can learn facial gua sha at my online school, or come see me at my treatment room for a relaxing, holistic facial.
8. What’s the best skincare routine for 40+ skin?
Focus on barrier support, hydration, and nourishment. Your skin is naturally producing less collagen and elastin, so think:
- Gentle cleanse
- Hydrating essence/serum
- Nourishing oil or cream
- SPF in the morning
- Face massage or gua sha can give your skin an extra boost of radiance and relaxation.
9. What’s my skin type?
Forget the old categories (oily, dry, combination). Skin changes throughout life, and in your 40s, the most common shifts are increased dryness, dehydration, and sensitivity. Instead of boxing yourself into a type, pay attention to what your skin feels like and adjust your products to support it. Read more about skin types here.
10. Are there any ingredients I should avoid in skincare?
Yes and no. Especially harsh alcohols, synthetic fragrance, even retinol, and overly aggressive exfoliating acids can irritate or sensitise skin. These can all compromise your skin barrier, making issues like dryness, redness, and acne worse. Stick with gentle, nourishing, skin-friendly ingredients. If you notice any irritation after using a product, give it a break and wait for your skin to repair.
11. How do I layer skincare products?
As a rule of thumb go from lightest to heaviest. Cleanser → water-based products (like essence/serum) → oils → creams/balms. This ensures each product penetrates properly and your skin gets the full benefit. As always, there might be exceptions for the rule. For instance, if your night cream is very heavy and your face oil lighter, the cream goes on last. For the best results, follow the instructions on your skincare packaging.
12. What’s the most important skincare product?
Cleanser. If you don’t remove makeup, SPF, and the day’s build-up of impurities, your skin can’t repair itself overnight, and any serums or creams you use won’t absorb properly. A gentle, barrier-friendly cleanser is the foundation of every good routine. Once your skin is clean, then hydration and nourishment can really do their job. Read more about why cleansing is the most important step of your skincare routine here.
Final Thoughts
Your skincare doesn’t need to be complicated or full of 10+ steps. With the right minimal routine and a little consistency, your skin can feel balanced, radiant, and supported, no matter what changes it’s going through.
Sending love,
Jenny, the founder of Jenny Nordic Skincare
PS. For daily skincare tips and inspiration, follow us on Instagram!
Want more skin wisdom in your ears?
Tune into The Skin Reset Podcast – a weekly chat where we dive deep into all things skin, the holistic way. From navigating perimenopause to building a minimal routine that actually works, it's your space to learn, unwind, and feel seen in your 40s and beyond. New episodes every week — come join the conversation
