As I’m about to turn 63, I’m noticing changes in my skin that feel very different from anything I’ve experienced before. Sensitivity is no longer my primary concern. Instead, I’m seeing the early signs of glycation — and for the first time, it’s showing up very clearly around my eyes.
The most noticeable change?
Crepey texture and a loss of firmness on my upper eyelids.
My lids are starting to rest on my lashes, and the skin feels thinner, less resilient, and more folded than it used to.
This has been a wake-up call — not in a fearful way, but in a pay-attention way.
Understanding What’s Changing at This Stage
Glycation is a natural process that accelerates as we age. Excess sugars bind to collagen and elastin fibers, making them stiff and brittle. Over time, this leads to:
Loss of firmness
Crepey or papery texture
Skin that doesn’t “bounce back” the way it once did
For me, this isn’t about trying to look younger — it’s about supporting the skin I have now, preserving function, and choosing ingredients that help my skin communicate and repair more effectively.
That realization led me to make some intentional changes to my routine.
With this understanding, I made a few thoughtful adjustments to my routine — choosing products that support glycation defense, cellular communication, and firmness, especially around the eyes.
A Game-Changer for My Eyelids
One of the most impactful changes I’ve made to my routine is using the Circadia glycation system directly on my eyelids — all the way to the lash line and through the brows.
Yes, upper and lower lids.
I carefully apply:
This adjustment alone has made a noticeable difference:
Reduced crepey texture
Improved firmness
Less heaviness on my upper lids
My lids no longer feel like they’re collapsing onto my lashes
The skin looks smoother, stronger, and more supported — something I truly didn’t expect to see improve this quickly.
My Updated Morning Routine (Focused on Protection & Cellular Communication)
Morning Goals:
Protect collagen, support cell signaling, and address glycation before the day begins.
As we age—especially post-menopause—our morning routine needs to do more than hydrate. It should actively protect the skin from the biological stressors that accelerate aging, while supporting the skin’s ability to communicate, repair, and stay resilient throughout the day.
Circadia Counter A.G.E. Anti-Glycation Serum
This serum targets glycation pathways and helps protect collagen and elastin from sugar-related damage. It’s become a non-negotiable for me as I move through my 60s.
Emepelle Serum
Designed specifically for estrogen-deficient skin, Emepelle supports cell signaling and skin density during and after menopause. I love that it works with the skin’s natural estrogen receptors to improve firmness, elasticity, and overall skin vitality—without hormones. This is foundational care for mature skin that wants to stay strong and responsive. It provides all the essentials: MEP, Vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic aced and peptides.
Circadia Renewal Eye Cream
This is one of my favorite eye treatments for instantly smoothing fine lines, refreshing tired lids, and softening dark circles—all while wearing beautifully under makeup.
Moisturizer: Winter can be especially challenging for menopausal skin, which is why I’m loving Circadia right now. Their moisture-focused system is designed to support barrier health, hydration, and comfort when skin needs it most.
Learn more about the Circadia Moisture Trio.
Epicutis Lipid Shield SPF 30
Daily sun protection is essential, but I’m especially drawn to this formula for its barrier-supporting benefits. The TSC complex helps strengthen the skin barrier, while licorice root provides brightening and anti-inflammatory support. It feels nourishing, not heavy—and my skin stays calm and comfortable all day.
Aging gracefully, to me, means partnering with your biology.
Working with your skin—not against it.
Nourishing it, supporting it, and trusting it.
My Simplified Evening Routine (Repair Without Overload)
As I age, my skin does better with fewer steps that work synergistically, rather than heavy layering.
Evening Goals
Repair, reinforce the skin barrier, and defend against glycation while I sleep.
Plated Intense Serum
Supports deep cellular repair and overnight recovery.
Epicutis Lipid Serum
Strengthens the skin barrier and improves hydration efficiency—essential support for aging and menopausal skin.
Alternate between:
Emepelle Night Cream
A retinol cream designed specifically for estrogen-deficient skin, helping support firmness, elasticity, and comfort overnight.
and
Circadia Glyco-Guard
Formulated with a synergistic blend of anti-glycation peptides, antioxidants, and botanicals to help detoxify the skin, block the formation of advanced glycation end products (A.G.E.s), and reverse early signs of glycation-related damage. With consistent use, skin appears firmer, smoother, and more refined.
Eyes
I repeat the same eyelid layering:
Circadia Counter A.G.E. Anti-Glycation Serum
Circadia Glyco-Guard Facial Cream
Consistency here has been key to maintaining smoother, more resilient skin around the eyes.
Daily LED Ritual (My Non-Negotiable)
Every morning, right after the shower:10 minutes under LightStim Elipsa Paired with EMDR sound therapy from Calm.
This practice restores my skin, regulates my nervous system, and grounds my morning with intention and peace.
Final Thoughts at 63
Aging isn’t something I’m trying to outrun — it’s something I’m learning to work with.
My skin today needs:
Protection over correction
Communication over stimulation
Smart simplicity over excess
If you’re noticing crepey skin, subtle drooping, or loss of firmness — especially around the eyes — it may not be sensitivity. It may be your skin asking for glycation support and better cellular conversation.
Listening to that has made all the difference for me.
Looking for expert skincare guidance? Our team of licensed estheticians will help you create or refine a routine that fits your skin’s unique needs — starting with a free skincare checkup.
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Author
Jeana LeClerc
Jeana LeClerc is a licensed esthetician, Certified Acne Specialist, and the founder and CEO of Art of Skin Care . With over 20 years of hands-on experience in the skincare industry, Jeana specializes in regenerative skincare —a powerful, holistic alternative to conventional anti-aging treatments.
Rejecting the pressure of injectables and invasive procedures, Jeana champions science-backed, skin-nourishing solutions that support healthy, youthful skin from the inside out. Her mission is to help clients achieve lasting skin transformation through personalized routines, professional-grade products, and a deep understanding of how the skin functions and regenerates.
At Art of Skin Care, Jeana leads a team of expert estheticians dedicated to delivering results-driven skincare, from clearing acne to supporting healthy aging . Her blog and online consultations are trusted resources for those seeking radiant, resilient skin without compromise.
