As I enter my 32nd year, I can honestly say my relationship with my skin—and myself—has changed so much over the last few years.
I’ve slowed down. I’ve become more intentional. And one of the changes I’m most proud of is eliminating alcohol completely. That decision alone had a huge impact on my skin: less inflammation, less redness, more clarity, and an overall calmness I didn’t realize I was missing.
That shift also changed how I approach skincare in my 30s. This decade isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing things smarter. For me, that means one major focus:
Antioxidant protection.
Here’s what my skin truly needs in my 30s—and the products that have made the biggest difference.
Antioxidants, But Make Them Smarter: Epicutis Arctigenin
Vitamin C is great, but my skin is very prone to redness, so I needed something more calming, more protective, and more advanced.
That’s where Epicutis Arctigenin Brightening Treatment completely changed my skin.
Arctigenin doesn’t just provide antioxidant protection—it also protects against blue light exposure, which is huge in our screen-heavy lives. What amazed me most is how it:
Completely eliminates redness for me
Calms my skin almost instantly
Helps even out tone
I was just starting to see a dark spot forming on my cheek, and since using Arctigenin consistently, it’s been taking care of it beautifully. My skin looks clearer, calmer, and more even—and it feels stronger.
This is the kind of antioxidant protection your skin needs in your 30s.
Retinaldehyde: Gentle, Effective, and Worth Starting Now
I knew it was time to introduce a retinoid, but I didn’t want irritation or disruption to my barrier. Retinaldehyde has been the perfect solution.
I’m using Hydrinity Retaxome Daily Retinal Hydrator, and I absolutely love it.
Why retinaldehyde works so well in your 30s:
Encourages collagen production
Improves texture and clarity
Helps with early fine lines
Is more effective than retinol, yet gentler
It feels like I’m supporting my skin instead of forcing change—and that mindset has been everything for me in this decade.
Eye Care That Multitasks (Just Like We Do)
The eye area was the first place I noticed subtle changes, so eye cream became a must. What I love most right now is Factofive Eye/Lash Cream.
It’s a true two-in-one:
Hydrates and supports the delicate eye area
Encourages healthier, stronger lashes
And yes—I’m thrilled to say I’m seeing little baby lash nubs coming in. That alone makes me excited to use it every day.
SPF Is Non-Negotiable—And This One Changed Everything
KRX Skin Filter SPF 50+++
If there’s one thing I will never stop talking about, it’s sunscreen.
The biggest skincare regret I hear from older women is:
“I didn’t wear enough SPF.”
In your 30s, daily sunscreen is essential—and finding one you love makes all the difference.
As a proud K-beauty lover, my absolute favorite is KRX Skin Filter SPF 50+++ in the light/medium tint.
It’s:
Lightweight
Beautifully radiant
Protective without feeling heavy
Honestly? I don’t even wear foundation anymore. My skin looks so even and glowy, I get compliments all day long. This SPF alone elevated my entire routine.
SPF heavy now—you won’t regret it later. I promise.
My Favorite Finisher (and Starter): Epicutis Hydrobiome Mist
One of my favorite little rituals is using Epicutis Hydrobiome Mist—and I use it twice.
I spray it right after cleansing
And again at the end of my routine
It delivers:
Pre- and postbiotics to support the skin microbiome
Antioxidant protection
Deep hydration and calm
It helps everything absorb better and leaves my skin feeling balanced, hydrated, and radiant.
The Big Takeaway: Your 30s Are About Antioxidant Protection
If I had to sum up skincare in your 30s in one sentence, it would be this:
Your 30s are all about adding more antioxidant protection to your routine.
Protect your skin from:
Environmental stress
Blue light
UV damage
Inflammation
Support your barrier. Stay consistent. Choose products
that work with your skin, not against it.
Your future skin will thank you—and honestly, your present skin will too.
Here’s to calm, radiant skin and routines that feel as good as they perform.
Author
Celine LeClerc is a licensed esthetician, Certified Acne Specialist, and the lead esthetician at Art of Skin Care, where she also serves as the Director of Education and Research & Development. With 14 years of experience in the skincare industry, Celine is renowned for her deep expertise and exceptional ability to match clients with the most effective, results-driven skincare solutions.
Guided by a passion for innovation, Celine scours the globe in search of cutting-edge, science-backed products that deliver visible transformations while supporting skin health at every stage of life. Her expertise spans everything from clearing stubborn acne to creating advanced, holistic routines for healthy aging.
At Art of Skin Care, Celine leads with a commitment to education, training both clients and estheticians on the latest advancements in skincare. Her mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge, tools, and routines they need to achieve radiant, resilient skin without compromise.