Hey Sister Project!
“I’d love to know what skincare products you love and can’t live without. I just turned 40 and am looking to amp up my beauty regimen. Also, do either of you get Botox? If so, did you enjoy the results? Thank you!”
Ready To Amp It Up – Chicago, IL
Well hello there, Ready To Amp It Up. Thank you for writing in about one of my favorite topics: skincare. Other topics I thoroughly enjoy discussing include cannabis, traveling, and women’s rights—but today, let’s get into beauty.
Let’s kick things off with the big one: Botox.
No, I don’t get Botox… yet. At the moment, I’m enjoying my 40-year-old face as is, but who knows what the future holds?
I will admit that around six months postpartum, I felt like my blonde hair was making me look extra tired. So I dyed it red. This, I do not recommend. I should have just gotten a little botulism and called it a day.
Anyway, check back with me after the toddler years and we’ll see if I’m still Botox-free—or living the wrinkle-free life.
My Skincare Philosophy
When it comes to skincare, I’m a big believer in a daily regimen. Using products that suit both your skin type and your skin’s actual needs can truly transform your complexion. Glowing, moisturized, healthy-looking skin is absolutely within reach.
Will any of these products erase all your wrinkles and your problems?
No. But they will dramatically improve the condition of your skin—so at least that’s one less thing on your plate.
Ok? Ok. Let’s dive in.
Oils Over Lotions
Years ago, I made the switch from lotions to oils, and it has made a massive difference in my skin’s texture and overall glow.
My Favorites:
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Mara Universal Face Oil – Around $75
Algae-based, packed with skin-loving ingredients, deeply moisturizing, and my favorite higher-end oil for minimizing fine lines. -
Bio-Oil – About $10
The drugstore legend known for fading stretch marks. The Amazon reviews don’t lie—this stuff works.
Adding Retinol to the Mix
This past year I added a gentle retinol, and it has been a game changer.
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Drunk Elephant Gloei Retinol Oil
Brightens, evens out skin tone, smooths texture, and reduces fine lines—all without irritating my sensitive skin. Plus, it’s cost-effective and easy to incorporate.
Eye Creams + Undereye Gels
When it comes to eyes, hydration is everything.
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m-61 Hydroboost Eye Cream (Blue Mercury)
Light but super moisturizing. My concealer sits beautifully on top without streaking. -
Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels
Always in my drawer.
If I want to splurge: the Skyn microneedle patches for seriously impressive results.
SPF—Non-Negotiable
With UV rays stronger than ever—and considering I spent an embarrassing amount of time in tanning beds at Garden Market—SPF is a must.
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La Roche-Posay SPF 70
Lightweight, protective, and helps repair sun-damaged skin… which I definitely have.
My Number One Recommendation
If you only buy one product from this list, let it be this:
m-61 PowerGlow Peel Pads
I am a hardcore junkie for these pads. In under a minute, they give my skin the kind of glow that looks like I just paid $200 for a facial. Keyword: GLOW.
Pro tip: Cut the pads in half—you’ll double your supply, and half is more than enough per use.
One Last Beauty Favorite
My all-time favorite mascara:
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L’Oreal Telescopic Mascara
Ten bucks. Incredible length. Zero Tammy Faye Baker clumps. And don’t forget your lash curler, always.
Final Thoughts
Well, that about wraps it up. I hope this inspires you to amp up your skincare regimen and spend a little more time nurturing your own beauty routine. It’s worth it—you’re worth it—and glowing skin never goes out of style.
Stay cozy,
Lauren Massarella
This article was originally written for Hillgrove Ave Magazine.
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