Editor’s Note: I’m back! It’s been a couple years, but I now find myself with more free time. And I’m frequently thinking, “Ooh, that would be a fun thing to write about on the blog.” So here I am! No promises on the frequency, but I do have a list of ideas. So if you used to read Beautypendence, thanks for coming back. And if you’re new to my little beauty blog, welcome!

Last year, I got a little lazy with my skincare routine. I was using most of the same stuff I wrote about six years ago but with less diligence. And at 43, things don’t look like they used to at 37! My skin was looking dull. I decided to do something about it. I dug deep to rediscover my Beautypendence skills and researched new ingredients and products. I now have a pumped up skincare regimen that’s working well for me.

A little about my skin: Thanks to good genes, I don’t have any major skin problems. While wrinkles aren’t a problem for me, sun damage and dryness are. Also, I have mild rosacea on my cheeks. The gentler I am with my skin, the better. No microdermabrasion or harsh peels for me, and I can’t tolerate retinol.

Just because these products below work for my skin, it doesn’t mean it’ll work for yours. Stand alone makeup stores and department store makeup counters will gladly make samples of products for you to try. I always get a sample to make sure I don’t invest in a product that my skin may not like. Also, many products sold online also have some kind of satisfaction guarantee.

Here’s what’s working for me these days.