I stopped doing most of my skincare… and that’s when my skin started looking better at 45. For years I truly believed “more products = better skin,” to the point where I was layering like crazy (and yes, I even spent $1,500 on a single serum). But the more I did, the more my skin felt like it needed more—tight, irritated, dull… like it was never satisfied. I was doing the “right” things (gentle cleanser, moisturizer, even retin-a at night), but my skin wasn’t reflecting any of it. What changed everything was letting go of the expensive-product chase and switching my whole mindset to supporting my skin—being gentle, calming it, and protecting my barrier. I found Lavien through a neighbor whose skin looked naturally smooth, healthy, and glowing, and it made me realize I didn’t need stronger… I needed smarter. Now my routine is simple: cleanse, one essence, a thin layer of cream, sunscreen, and a quick mist in the morning—then at night, cleanse, retin-a (not too much), cream, and mist. The biggest takeaway: simple can be more effective, and consistency (especially with retin-a) is what actually moves the needle after 40.