Sudden skin aging

[Nogoodwithgoodbyes]

I'm almost 40 but I'm shocked at my skin:

Basically, I've had crow's feet and lines on my forehead for a good few years and I'm okay with that. I have always taken pretty good care of my skin (cleanser, spf during the day, occasional mask and I use serums periodically). The skin on the rest of my face has always been pretty good and people used to comment on how good my skin is.

Just very recently, I've noticed fine lines all over my cheeks, as in, when I smile you can see the lines from the side of my mouth to the side of my eyes. They're very fine/early stage right now but it's actually made me so sad, I've cried. I'm going through marital separation and it never even occurred to me to worry about my skin (bigger fish to fry) but gosh, this is really bothering me.

Any tips, please? What's the best skincare? Has this happened to any of you? I'm considering giving up alcohol as I hear it ages the skin. Both of my parents have amazing skin, so this is definitely not genetic.

@Putapeonyinyourpocket

I use it in the morning only. I like the texture & it absorbs very fast.

I am 53. About 2 years' ago I was having an incredibly stressful time and also drinking too much and not eating well. I looked in the mirror and really did look suddenly aged.

2 years' later, stress gone, looking after myself, look about 10 years' younger.

Don't get expensive treatment. Be nice to yourself for a bit. This time of year is not really a beautifying experience either.

I came on here to say that I've been taking oil of evening primrose to alleviate breast tenderness and pmt....been taking it for about 4 months. A side effect is young looking skin ! I've actually had a certain wrinkle totally disappear, on the downside I've had one or two spots ( I'm 44 lol)
I also take effervescent vit c every day . It's worked wonders

I'm 40 and have pretty good skin. However when I don't eat or drink well I can literally see the difference the next day.
I only drink water and occasionally tea. No alcohol (or as little as possible).
I eat at least two citrus fruits a day.
80% of my dinners are vegetables.
Every other day I eat a salad for lunch with lots of different veg.
I eat fish almost every day, either for lunch or dinner (tuna, salmon, herring, sardines)
I snack on nuts and fruit mostly.

I actually like to eat like this and do it more for my health than my skin but I can see the difference.

@lilgreen I think most of us accept that we are going to age. I just think I actually look my age now rather than a haggard older version of myself.

Oh I get it, my comment was a bit touch in cheek. I remember turning 40 and thinking I still looked 35. After 45 ageing seemed to speed up. I eat loads of fruit and veg as I love that anyway. I don’t drink lots but enjoy a few at the weekend and won’t give it up for my skin as I need to balance my vanity with my mental health and well-being and happiness. I use The Ordinary retinol, spf 50 spring/summer and never sunbathe, never smoked. The rest is down to genes.

Tongue not touch!
Oh I drink lots of water, mint tea, green tea and about 5 avocados a week. What makes most difference to me is sleep. I also stopped using cleansers. I use a flannel in the shower at night to remove makeup with a little vit c cleansing gel so get a good exfoliation from the flannel.

@oldfashionedtastingtea

Thanks. Gosh, oldfashionedtastingtea, you have a very healthy lifestyle. I can’t imagine eating quite so well but I’d love to! (I just had two small scones as a snack! )

As for the alcohol, I really don’t know how long this will last! I have stopped drinking one or two glasses every night, which was excessive I admit but I’d say after a month or two detox, I’ll most likely drink again! I’d love to be one or those people who can just drink when they go out or socially. As my social life isn’t what it used to be, if I did that, I wouldn’t be drinking too often!

Good point Dontforgetyourbrolly I was taking that until a few months ago for PMT and must get back on it!

Thanks friendlyflicka . I think it’s just tough to see myself looking worse than ever when I’m facing a massive life upheaval, lifestyle downgrade etc. It’s so reassuring to hear that and I hope I’ll be the same!

@Nogoodwithgoodbyes
I really hope life gets easier soon and in the meantime cut your reflection a bit of slack

Thank you! I’m keep telling myself that life will get better and I’m sure it will!

Could I ask if anyone has used Alpha H hyaluronic 8?

I’ve started using it in the morning post-cleanse. My skin feels dry and tight afterwards and drinks moisturiser afterwards. Is this normal? Reviews I have read mention how hydrating it is but to me, it feels tight...any experience with it?