How I Got My Best Skin at 41

I’ve been in a multi-decade-long battle with my skin. I have hypothyroidism and PCOS, which has created an uphill battle with acne for many years, and I can confidently say I’ve tried almost everything.

I eventually went on a course of Accutane, and that dramatically transformed my skin for the better. It gave me a place to maintain instead of having to fight the battle every single day. Now, if my skin starts flaring again, I’ll do a round of doxycycline, and that usually kicks it for a few years.

The last few years, especially after having babies, I’ve been able to do a more intense regimen that really works for me. I approach skincare like a hobby. I genuinely enjoy my routine morning and night, but I’m also a very routine-oriented person in every aspect of my life.

The biggest thing I’ve learned is that you have to get really good at listening to your skin and being patient enough to change only one thing at a time. That way you actually know what’s making the difference and how your skin reacts.

I’m also not someone who’s very into the trending skincare products at Sephora. I want science-backed products recommended by my esthetician and dermatologist. Sticking with that and not getting pulled into trends has been really important for my skin health.

I know what works for me right now, so I stick to it. If I notice something that needs a little tweak, I’ll do some research, talk to my esthetician, and swap one thing in or out rather than changing everything at once. Some products stay, some go, but this is exactly what I’m using right now.