Why Your Skincare Routine Needs to Evolve at 45

At 45, your skin undergoes significant changes driven by hormonal shifts, decreased collagen production, and cumulative environmental damage. Estrogen levels decline, leading to thinner skin, reduced elasticity, increased dryness, and more pronounced wrinkles. The good news? A strategic, science-backed skincare protocol can dramatically slow—and even reverse—visible signs of aging.

This comprehensive guide outlines the exact morning and night routine that combines proven actives like tretinoin, GHK-Cu peptides, and medical-grade ingredients to target the specific concerns of 45+ skin.

The Complete Morning Skincare Protocol for 45+ Skin

Step 1: Gentle Cleanser (AM)

Start your day with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that removes overnight oils and prepares skin for active ingredients without stripping your natural moisture barrier.

What to look for:

• Cream or gel-based formulas (avoid harsh foaming cleansers)
• pH 5.5 to match skin's natural acidity
• Hydrating ingredients like glycerin or ceramides
• Free from sulfates and fragrances

Recommended ingredients: Glycerin, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

How to use: Massage gently onto damp skin for 30-60 seconds, rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry with a clean towel.

Step 2: Antioxidant Serum (AM)

After cleansing, apply a potent antioxidant serum to protect against free radical damage from UV exposure and environmental stressors throughout the day.

Best options:

• Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid): 10-20% concentration for brightening and collagen synthesis
• Vitamin E + Ferulic Acid: Enhances vitamin C stability and photoprotection
• Resveratrol: Powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory benefits

How to use: Apply 3-4 drops to clean, dry skin. Wait 1-2 minutes for absorption before proceeding.

Pro tip: Store vitamin C serums in a cool, dark place to prevent oxidation.

Step 3: GHK-Cu Peptide Serum (AM)

GHK-Cu (copper peptide) is one of the most researched and effective peptides for comprehensive skin rejuvenation. At 45, incorporating GHK-Cu into your daily routine can dramatically improve skin firmness, texture, and collagen production.

Key benefits of GHK-Cu:

• Stimulates collagen types I and III production
• Improves skin elasticity and firmness by up to 70%
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Enhances wound healing and tissue repair
• Provides antioxidant protection
• Increases skin thickness and density

How to use: Apply 2-3 drops after your antioxidant serum. GHK-Cu can be used both morning and night for maximum benefits.

Important: GHK-Cu works synergistically with vitamin C and can be layered safely in your morning routine.

Step 4: Hyaluronic Acid Serum (AM)

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a humectant that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it essential for maintaining hydration in aging skin.

What to look for:

• Multiple molecular weights (low, medium, high) for multi-layer hydration
• 1-2% concentration
• Fragrance-free formulation

How to use: Apply to slightly damp skin for optimal absorption. Follow with moisturizer to seal in hydration.

Step 5: Eye Cream (AM)

The delicate eye area shows aging first and requires specialized care with targeted ingredients.

Key ingredients for 45+ eyes:

• Caffeine (reduces puffiness)
• Peptides (firms and smooths)
• Vitamin K (reduces dark circles)
• Ceramides (strengthens barrier)

How to use: Gently pat a pea-sized amount around the orbital bone using your ring finger. Never pull or tug.

Step 6: Moisturizer (AM)

A quality moisturizer locks in all previous layers and provides essential barrier support.

Essential ingredients for 45+ skin:

• Ceramides (restore barrier function)
• Niacinamide (reduces inflammation, improves texture)
• Peptides (additional collagen support)
• Squalane or jojoba oil (lightweight hydration)

How to use: Apply a nickel-sized amount to face and neck, using upward motions.

Step 7: Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ (AM) - NON-NEGOTIABLE

Sun protection is the single most important anti-aging step. At 45, UV damage accelerates collagen breakdown and hyperpigmentation.

SPF requirements:

• Broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)
• SPF 50 or higher
• Mineral (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) or chemical filters
• Water-resistant for 80 minutes

How to use: Apply 1/4 teaspoon to face and neck as the final step. Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors or exposed to windows.

Pro tip: Mineral sunscreens work immediately; chemical sunscreens need 15-20 minutes to activate.

The Complete Evening Skincare Protocol for 45+ Skin

Step 1: Double Cleanse (PM)

Evening cleansing is crucial for removing makeup, sunscreen, pollution, and accumulated oils.

First cleanse - Oil-based cleanser or micellar water:

• Dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and sebum
• Gentle on skin barrier
• Prepares skin for water-based cleanse

Second cleanse - Gentle water-based cleanser:

• Same cleanser as morning routine
• Removes remaining impurities
• Leaves skin clean but not stripped

How to use: Massage oil cleanser for 60 seconds, rinse, then follow with water-based cleanser for another 30-60 seconds.

Step 2: Tretinoin (Prescription Retinoid) - PM ONLY

Tretinoin (prescription-strength retinoic acid) is the gold standard for anti-aging and the most clinically proven ingredient for reversing photoaging, wrinkles, and texture issues.

Why tretinoin at 45:

• Increases cell turnover and collagen production
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles by up to 50%
• Fades hyperpigmentation and age spots
• Improves skin texture and tone
• Prevents and treats acne
• Thickens dermis and epidermis

Starting protocol:

• Begin with 0.025% concentration 2-3x per week
• Gradually increase to nightly use over 8-12 weeks
• Progress to 0.05% or 0.1% as tolerated
• Apply to completely dry skin (wait 20 minutes after cleansing)

How to use: Apply a pea-sized amount to face, avoiding eye area. Use the "wait 20 minutes" rule—apply tretinoin 20 minutes after cleansing to minimize irritation.

Important considerations:

• Expect initial dryness, flaking, and redness (retinization period)
• Always use SPF 50+ during the day
• Avoid combining with other strong actives initially
• Results appear after 12+ weeks of consistent use

Tretinoin alternatives: If you can't access prescription tretinoin, consider adapalene (Differin 0.1%, available OTC) or retinaldehyde serums.

Step 3: GHK-Cu Peptide Serum (PM) - After Tretinoin Absorption

Wait 20-30 minutes after applying tretinoin, then layer GHK-Cu peptide serum for enhanced collagen synthesis and repair.

Why GHK-Cu pairs well with tretinoin:

• Reduces tretinoin irritation and inflammation
• Enhances collagen production synergistically
• Accelerates skin repair and healing
• Provides antioxidant protection during retinoid use

How to use: Apply 2-3 drops after tretinoin has fully absorbed. This combination is powerful for reversing advanced aging signs.

Step 4: Hydrating Serum or Essence (PM)

After actives, replenish hydration with a nourishing serum.

Best options:

• Hyaluronic acid serum
• Niacinamide serum (5-10%)
• Centella asiatica (cica) essence

How to use: Apply to slightly damp skin for maximum absorption.

Step 5: Eye Cream (PM)

Use a richer, more reparative eye cream at night.

Nighttime eye cream ingredients:

• Retinol (0.1-0.25% for eye area)
• Peptides (Matrixyl, Argireline)
• Ceramides and fatty acids
• Vitamin K

How to use: Pat gently around orbital bone, avoiding direct contact with lash line.

Step 6: Rich Night Cream or Facial Oil (PM)

Seal everything in with a nourishing night cream or facial oil to support overnight repair.

Best ingredients for nighttime:

• Ceramides and cholesterol (barrier repair)
• Peptides (continued collagen support)
• Squalane, rosehip, or marula oil
• Niacinamide

How to use: Apply generously to face and neck. For very dry skin, layer a facial oil over your night cream.

Step 7: Neck and Décolletage (PM)

Don't forget these areas—they show aging just as much as your face.

How to treat: Apply tretinoin (if tolerated), GHK-Cu, and moisturizer to neck and chest using upward strokes.

Weekly Add-Ons for Enhanced Results

Exfoliation (1-2x per week)

On nights you skip tretinoin, use a gentle chemical exfoliant:

• AHA (Glycolic or Lactic Acid): 5-10% for surface exfoliation and brightening
• BHA (Salicylic Acid): 2% for pore refinement (if needed)
• PHA (Gluconolactone): Gentler option for sensitive skin

Hydrating Mask (1-2x per week)

Use a deeply hydrating sheet mask or overnight mask to combat tretinoin dryness.

Professional Treatments

Consider quarterly treatments to enhance your at-home routine:

• Microneedling with PRP
• Chemical peels
• Laser resurfacing
• Medical-grade facials

Ingredient Layering Order: Quick Reference

Morning:

1. Cleanser
2. Vitamin C serum
3. GHK-Cu peptide serum
4. Hyaluronic acid
5. Eye cream
6. Moisturizer
7. SPF 50+

Evening:

1. Oil cleanser
2. Water-based cleanser
3. Wait 20 minutes
4. Tretinoin
5. Wait 20-30 minutes
6. GHK-Cu peptide serum
7. Hydrating serum
8. Eye cream
9. Night cream/facial oil

Common Mistakes to Avoid at 45

1. Skipping SPF

UV damage is cumulative and accelerates all signs of aging. SPF 50+ daily is non-negotiable, even indoors.

2. Over-Exfoliating

Tretinoin already increases cell turnover. Adding too many acids causes barrier damage and inflammation.

3. Not Moisturizing Enough

Aging skin produces less sebum. Layer hydrating products and use occlusive ingredients to lock in moisture.

4. Expecting Overnight Results

Tretinoin and peptides require 12+ weeks for visible results. Consistency is everything.

5. Neglecting Neck and Hands

These areas age faster than your face. Extend your routine to neck, chest, and hands.

6. Using Too Many Actives at Once

Start with tretinoin and GHK-Cu. Add other actives slowly to avoid irritation.

Lifestyle Factors That Enhance Your Routine

Your skincare routine works best when supported by healthy lifestyle habits:

• Sleep: 7-9 hours nightly for optimal skin repair
• Hydration: 8+ glasses of water daily
• Nutrition: Antioxidant-rich foods, omega-3s, collagen peptides
• Stress management: Chronic stress accelerates aging
• Exercise: Increases circulation and collagen production
• No smoking: Smoking destroys collagen and elastin
• Limit alcohol: Dehydrates skin and impairs repair

When to Consider Systemic Peptide Therapy

While topical skincare is essential, systemic peptide therapy can provide comprehensive anti-aging benefits from within. Peptides like CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, and Epitalon work at the cellular level to:

• Increase growth hormone production
• Enhance collagen synthesis throughout the body
• Improve skin thickness, elasticity, and hydration
• Accelerate healing and tissue repair
• Support overall longevity and vitality

Combining topical tretinoin and GHK-Cu with physician-supervised systemic peptide therapy creates a powerful inside-out approach to anti-aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use tretinoin and vitamin C together?

Yes, but use vitamin C in the morning and tretinoin at night. Using both at the same time can cause irritation and reduce tretinoin's effectiveness.

How long does it take to see results from this routine?

Initial improvements in hydration and texture appear within 2-4 weeks. Significant wrinkle reduction and collagen remodeling take 12-16 weeks with consistent use.

Is tretinoin safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, but start with 0.025% concentration 2x per week and increase gradually. Use a gentle, hydrating routine to minimize irritation.

Can I use GHK-Cu with tretinoin?

Absolutely! GHK-Cu actually helps reduce tretinoin irritation while enhancing collagen production. Wait 20-30 minutes after tretinoin before applying GHK-Cu.

Do I need prescription tretinoin or can I use retinol?

Tretinoin (prescription) is significantly more effective than over-the-counter retinol. At 45, tretinoin provides the most dramatic anti-aging results.

Should I use different products in summer vs. winter?

The core routine stays the same, but you may need richer moisturizers in winter and lighter formulations in summer. Always use SPF 50+ year-round.

Can I wear makeup over this routine?

Yes! Wait 5-10 minutes after SPF application before applying makeup. Use a hydrating primer if needed.

Your Path to Radiant, Youthful Skin at 45

This comprehensive daily protocol combines the most effective, science-backed ingredients for 45+ skin: tretinoin for cellular renewal, GHK-Cu for collagen synthesis, antioxidants for protection, and strategic hydration for barrier support. Consistency is key—commit to this routine for at least 12 weeks to see transformative results.

Remember, skincare is an investment in your long-term skin health. The routine you establish now will determine how your skin looks at 50, 60, and beyond.

Ready to take your anti-aging strategy to the next level? Schedule a consultation with our medical team to discuss prescription tretinoin, systemic peptide therapy, and personalized protocols tailored to your unique skin concerns and goals.

For more information on the power of peptides for skin health, explore our guide on the best peptides for anti-aging and discover how physician-supervised therapy can enhance your results.