Your 30s

The times are changing and your skin is no exception.  Aging, the stress of a career, pregnancy-all lead to some significant changes in your complexion.  These may include a few fine lines around your eyes and mouth, some loss of skin tone and even adult acne.

Tips

• Exfoliate.  The 30s is the decade when cell turnover begins to slow, leading to dullness and uneven skin tone.  To counter this slowdown, upgrade your skin care regimen with regular exfoliation.  A moisturizing treatment containing alpha-hydroxy-acids (AHAs) will even out skin tone and even diminish the appearance of fine lines.
• Spot check.  Pregnancy often causes hormonal upsets.  One result is a condition called melasma, also called "mask of pregnancy" which appears as dark patches on the skin.  Exfoliation and gentle brightening products containing natural ingredients like Vitamin C and licorice extract can help diminish this discoloration. (The good news is it generally disappears after the baby is born!)
• Take your vitamins.  Studies indicate that the recommended daily allowance of key vitamins like B6, B12, D and E will help fight disease.  A single multivitamin provides most people with the vitamins and minerals they need.  Many doctors also recommend calcium supplements to maintain bone density loss in the years to come.
• Lift weights.  In addition to calcium, weight-bearing exercise builds muscle mass, which in turn supports the skeletal system.  If you haven't already added weight training to your fitness program, now is the time to begin.

Next, Your 40s