We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
1. A pair of comfy open-toed sandals if you said bye-bye to anything without arch support the second you entered your forties. Lots of reviewers compared these to Birkenstocks, but for way less money!
Promising review: "Relief! I have high arches, and have developed something like plantar fasciitis now that I'm in my mid-forties. Didn't want to spend the money on the comparable Birkenstocks, even though I highly trust that brand. So glad I tried these first! Can't believe the price. And when I can't stand being barefoot or any other shoes, these are my go-to. Wonderful!" —DB
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in women's sizes 6–12, including wide sizes, as well as 20 colors).
2. A memory foam seat cushion designed to help with back pain and sciatica, promote good posture, and help reduce pressure on the tailbone — especially if you spend most of your day in an office chair, car, or other sitting position.
Promising review: "ABSOLUTELY the best support cushion I've used! It wasn't a cushion that sat awkwardly in the chair, I didn't feel like I was forty-something going on 90, and it didn't feel like 'it will probably keep my tailbone part from not feeling as bad' — NOPE, THIS CUSHION INSTANTLY CRADLED MY BODY IN A WAY THAT SUPPORTED FAR MORE THAN MY TAILBONE!! I plan on getting a few more to have several places. This is truly an item worth far more than its retail price The science in the design, material, and shape are stellar!" —J-licious
Get it from Amazon for $49.95+ (available in three colors).
3. A gentle but powerful and quick-acting Nizoral dandruff shampoo that targets dandruff-causing fungus and can help reduce scalp flaking and itching. Now you can finally start wearing black without worrying about looking like you just trudged through a snowstorm.
This shampoo was designed to work for sensitive scalps, color-dyed, and chemically processed hair as well as for all hair types and textures, with reviewers with 3b–4c curls mentioning it worked for them.
Promising review: "After suddenly developing dandruff in my forties and trying other medicated shampoos, this one knocked it out in two days! I use it about once a week for maintenance, and a tea tree oil shampoo in between. Very happy with personal results. Smells good, too." —rebeljack78
Get it from Amazon for $15.47.
4. A pair of comfy period-proof underwear so you can stop spending money on disposable menstrual products and simply use these instead! They aren't bulky at all. In fact, they feel like regular comfy underwear, but are designed to absorb up to four tampons' worth of blood! To clean and reuse, all you have to do is rinse (no scrubbing required) and machine wash!
They're also ideal for overnight protection (you can pair them with a pad if you have a heavy flow) and for people who are worried about leakage during sports or physical activities.
Psst — reviewers love these undies, but suggest sizing up!
Promising review: "I'm sold. I can't believe I spent so many years worrying and dealing with stained sheets. Since I turned 40+, my periods are so heavy and intense, I had double pads and a towel under me in bed. The first night, I had a night pad and these on. It didn't matter that I bled beyond the pad, these underwear absorbed the overflow and protect my bed. It was the first time in years I could sleep peacefully. I'm getting more." —Mascarade
Get it from Amazon for $10+ (available in women's sizes 4-13, in four colors, and combo packs).
5. A pair of compression gloves that could help anyone whose hands and fingers tend to get sore after a long day of laptop use.
Promising review: "I am in my forties and was recently diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my hands and feet. Total bummer. I don’t want to take medication unless absolutely necessary, so I have been searching out other forms of relief from the pain and stiffness. I added these compression gloves to the mix, and they are very helpful. The gloves have a good range of motion and provide great compression support.
They have been especially helpful when I do yard work, and I also plan to use them for an interior painting project. It’s very hot where I live, so I don’t currently wear them every day. However, I know I will wear them frequently during fall and winter. Highly recommend for anyone looking for medication alternatives to arthritis!" —cb4iast8
Get a pair from Amazon for $14.97 (available in three sizes).
6. And a compression foot sleeve if you're dealing with uncomfortable foot pain. These can help offer relief, *and* they're comfy, lightweight, and breathable, making them easy to wear for long periods of time.
Read more about compression socks and swelling at Cleveland Clinic.
Promising review: "They work! I bought these because they had great reviews, but I honestly didn’t think a sock was going to do anything for me. I’m a manager in a grocery store and I walk 8–12 miles a day on concrete floors. It felt like the bones were coming out of my heels when I walked. After work when I stop moving, I limp around like I’m 90 because of my feet (I’m 41). I’ve had these on at work for three days now, and today I never thought about foot pain once. It helped so much that I decided I have to add to the over 53k reviews on these. They make walking bearable! If you are suffering, definitely try these!" —Tausha Johnson
Get a pair from Amazon for $12.95+ (available in four sizes and eight colors).
7. A first-of-its-kind, plant-based Youthforia color-changing oil blush — it reacts to your skin’s natural pH to instantly give you the perfect shade of natural flush that complements your skin tone. You can use it on its own or on top of foundation for a little extra vibrancy. Science is cool!
Youthforia is an Asian woman-owned small business established in 2020 that specializes in environmentally friendly, cruelty-free makeup made with at least 90% renewable ingredients.
Fun fact: All of Youthforia's makeup is designed with ingredients that make it A-OK for your skin to sleep with it on!
Promising review: "I can go down the list of impulse buys I've made after seeing them on TikTok. Most of them fall way short of what I had hoped for or expected. Not this stuff. I'd give it 10 stars if I could. After turning 40, I've not been happy with my blush or tinted moisturizers. More often than not, they either pill or settle into my pores, etc.
I don't wear very much makeup, and I'm surely no makeup artist. I'm sure I'm doing something wrong, but to be honest, I'm not willing to put the time or effort into learning at this point in life. YOUTHFORIA to the rescue! This stuff is awesome. I can use it to create nothing more than a healthy glow, or can build it for more if I care to. It is undetectable once on the skin, and it lasts all day. It's all I was hoping for and so much more. I highly recommend it." —Kate F.
Get it from Amazon for $36.
8. A pair of compression high-waisted bike shorts that have conveniently deep pockets!! They're also super comfy, and come in a wide range of cute colors. You'll probably never wanna wear real pants again after trying these on.
These have over 58,000 5-star ratings on Amazon, with reviewers mentioning the convenience of the pockets and how "squat-proof" they are.
Promising review: "I’ve struggled with thigh chafing all my life. I’m now 45. I just went on a hot and humid 3-mile run, and had complete comfort with no ride up. Ordering in all colors, and tossing my old running shorts!" —Cassandra Leigh Saffold
Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–5XL, three fit types, and 32 styles).
9. A knee pillow designed to help side sleepers rest more comfortably, and sleep is important at any age! The soft, yet dense memory foam adjusts to the shape of your body, and can help provide support and pressure relief that your hips, legs, and lower body might appreciate.
It even comes with an adjustable strap if you're someone who tosses and turns in their sleep (or if you're using it to recover from an injury that may lead to limited mobility). Psst — a lot of pregnant reviewers and reviewers with arthritis pain and cartilage pain swore by this, too!
Promising review: "I'm 49 and a lifelong athlete and fitness trainer. I train a lot, and I also spend a great deal of time driving. I am struggling with piriformis syndrome in my right leg, plus I have an old knee injury in my left leg. I also sleep only on my side at night.
Sleeping with a pillow above my knees has worked okay and has helped, but it is hard keeping it in place. I bought this to try, and it's awesome! It stays in place, is very comfortable, has helped my issues in reducing stress in my legs enormously. It was a little thicker than I expected it to be, and took a little getting used to, but now it's great. Having the strap has been really helpful because it stays in place when I switch from sleeping on my one side to my other side during the night." —Christine T. Mitchell
Get it from Amazon for $32.25.
10. A L'Oreal Paris's Magic Root Cover-Up spray for when you don't have time to work a full salon visit into your schedule, but you wanna give your hair a quick touch-up at home that'll last until the next time you shampoo.
Promising review: "Lightweight and great coverage on gray/white roots. I bought dark blonde, and it's more of a light brown, but it works well with my highlight/low lights. I’m horrible about getting my hair done every two months. I usually go 4–5 months between colorings to save time and money. I’m 49 and have about two inches of grey growth on each side of my part, so it‘s actually four inches of grey roots on the top of my head. As long as you don’t spray too close, then it doesn’t get heavy or sticky. I highly recommend this product." —Michelle D.
Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in eight shades and also in a two-pack).
11. A fully lined one-piece swimsuit because being in your forties can be stressful, and you could use a beach vacation! Lots of reviewers love this cute and comfy bathing suit that would love to accompany you on your trip.
12. A set of self-tying shoelaces that'll turn your favorite pair of shoes into slip-ons so you can get out the door faster, and spend less time hunched over — something your back *and* your busy schedule will thank you for.
A lot of runners and athletes also swear by these for training and races, since it's a guarantee their shoes won't come untied (and it also helps distribute the tension through the entire top of your foot, preventing localized injuries for longer runs!). You can also adjust the tension easily if your feet are more swollen on a particular day.
Promising review: "I purchased two pairs for my running shoes (49-year-old male). They work very well, and I have put a bunch of miles on them. No more tying and untying, just slip it on. I like how they keep unified tension across the entire laces from top to bottom. I have had no issues with the lace lock at all, it snapped in well." —Scott
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in 13 colors).
13. A Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer if the stress of life has you feeling exhausted and wanting something that can cover the dark circles around your tired eyes. This popular option is easy to apply, blends well, and is long-lasting even on hot and sweaty days!
Promising review: "I now have a new under-eye concealer. As I get older (I'm 40) I am noticing a little blue under my eyes. I sleep well. I've tried a lot of products and most will look unnatural or cakey. I decided to try this after reading a woman's blog who recommended it. She is my hero.
Dark circles are instantly gone when I apply this. This product stays on all day too. I never need to reapply. The tube is convenient and is made so that none of the product gets wasted. You twist what you need to the surface sponge and apply. The surface sponge stays moist with product too so you don't need twist often, making the concealer last longer. I will continue to buy this one for sure." —phillygrl
Check out BuzzFeed's full review of Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer for more deets.
Get it from Amazon for $8.80 (available in 18 shades).
14. A knee stabilizer band that provides shock absorption, compression, and support to help stabilize your knee during workouts or on days when you'll be doing a lot of moving around.
Promising review: "I played tennis when I was younger. Now I'm in my forties, and when I run on hills, my right knee hurts. I read the reviews for this product and decided to give it a try. It works great! I put this on when I go for walks or runs, and the pain is gone! It is easy to put on and take off. I hand wash it and air dry it. It comes in a pack of two. I only needed one so I gave one to my mom! If you have knee pain, you need to try this product!" —Priya Desai
Get a set of two from Amazon for $12.99.
15. A Schick Silk Touch-Up Tool so you don't have to make an appointment and spend more money to remove peach fuzz. Plus, it works painlessly and precisely, leaving your face oh so smooth without the irritation marks that most threading or razors leave behind.
This tool also helps soften skin by gently exfoliating as you use it!
Promising review: "I got so sick and tired of waxing my chin that I broke down and bought this. Paid top dollar for a so-called 'dermaplaning sesh' at a spa for $90 only to realize I'd been had when I found these. At least I can shave myself in the morning without the harsh yank of waxing or plucking. At my age (mid-forties), I don't feel good about stressing my face with the yank of waxing, and the last time I was waxed at some cheap place on the corner, they burned my lip. Never again with these. This I can do at home discreetly, and the price is right, too." —HoundMama
Get a set of three from Amazon for $5.94 (also available in a nine count).
16. A loose-fitting bamboo fabric sleep set that feels slightly cool against the skin, making it great for hot sleepers who wanna get through the night without sweating through the sheets.
Promising review: "These are the ones I have been searching for! I have not been sweating at all since I started wearing them (I'm 49 and get hot flashes during the night) or at least not waking up with damp clothes. The only thing I don't like is that they take forever to air dry because of the pocket construction. Other than that they seem well made and are super comfortable! I'm getting a second pair so I can rotate them for plenty of drying time." —Greg Ruth
Get it from Amazon for $21.23+ (available in women's sizes S–4X, petite and plus sizes, and 12 colors).
17. A roll-on migraine stick — a great portable option for those moments when you'd rather not rely on prescription meds, but still need something that might help take the edge off of a persistent headache.
Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins.
Promising review: "I started getting migraines in my forties with the onset of hormone changes. Migraines were new to me, and I needed to figure out how to handle them when they came. This stick is now a trusted part of my arsenal. It works. I used to have a migraine every month, but now I use this at the first sign, and they don’t progress. It’s weird, but It works for me." —Bryn
Get it from Amazon for $11.99.
18. A neck and shoulder relaxer designed to help soothe stiffness and pain in your neck and shoulders if all of those years hunched over a computer haven't done you any favors.
(Psst — you should consult with your doctor before trying anything new involving your neck/back area to make sure it's safe for you!)
For this, instead of like a regular pillow, you're supposed to lay on it in 10-minute intervals; the seller suggests working your way up to it by starting yourself off at five minutes at a time, with a one to three day adjustment period before regular use.
Promising review: "This neck relaxer is so easy to use! It took a few times to get used to, but it is not uncomfortable and is very much helpful with my chronic neck pain and shoulder tension. I felt pain relief after the first use! I have even been able to cut back on my chiropractor appointments because of this product. So thankful for this amazing find as I am only 41 and have been struggling with neck pain for several years now." —Mary Beth
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in five colors).
19. A dermatologist-recommended Elta MD tinted sunscreen for people with sensitive skin who are looking for a non-greasy option to help protect them from the hot hot sun — which is important at any age!
Promising review: "I stopped wearing foundation years ago and switched to tinted and non-tinted sunscreen. This is definitely the best tinted sunscreen I've tried yet. I'm 47-years-old, and my skin is dry and has acne. I'm light-skinned. I live in San Diego, and this definitely protects me from the sun. No pilling, and it stays all day." —Jenn
Get it from Amazon for $41.
If you're looking for an option available with more shades, check out this glowy Supergoop tinted sunscreen that comes in 15 different shades!
20. A powerful glycolic acid peel that might help smoothen and soften your skin while reducing fine lines and bringing out a radiant glow reviewers love.
Promising review: "I am very pleased with this glycolic peel. I just ordered my second bottle. It leaves my skin feeling and looking better. No problems with peeling or burning at all. I leave it on for 15 minutes or more every two weeks. There is some tingling but that is normal. It is definitely more effective than other glycolic products I have tried through the years.
I am very careful for 48 hours post-treatment (I do not scrub my face, and I use lots of moisturizer/sunscreen after doing the peel). I do it on a day when I can just stay home, relax, and don't have to put on makeup so that my skin can rest afterward and overnight. I am 45 but I don't look it, and I think this peel, combined with exfoliation and retinol creams, plus lots of sunscreen, really keeps my skin looking great. I highly recommend this peel for experienced or beginner users. Just take your time, follow instructions, and perhaps do a test patch first." —Mera
Get it from Amazon for $29.95.
21. An internet password logbook so you can stop constantly forgetting where (and if!!) you wrote down your log-in info — especially as the years go by and you only accumulate more and more username / password combinations!
Promising review: "I'm in my mid-forties, and with a gazillion internet accounts to have to keep track of, my memory simply isn't enough anymore. Also, what happens if something happens to me? My husband and sons would have a hell of a time trying to crack my accounts. I know we did when my father died several years ago. We still can't figure out some of his passwords for his email accounts. So I bought this. I entered everything I knew (and I update it when I discover another account I forgot), and for extra security, we keep it in our family safe. Use a pencil so when you update passwords, it's easy to change it out." —SoCal-Girl
Get it from Amazon for $8.25.
22. An Elf setting powder for when you want a soft, smooth finish that can cover fine lines. Wear it on its own or use it to set makeup and foundation!
Promising review: "I usually don't write reviews, but I'm impressed. This stuff is magic. I'm 40, and the setting powder instantly took away fine lines and wrinkles without being cakey. And for the price, I'm obsessed." —Deanne Gibson
Get it from Amazon for $6.
23. A pair of pull-on Levi's jeans that look like jeans, but *feel* like leggings so you can achieve maximum comfort!
Promising review: "I have now bought four pairs of these, and they are seriously my favorite pandemic jeans. They look like 'real' jeans (the material is woven, not knit) but the elastic waist makes them extra comfortable. I'm in my forties, I've had two kids, and I usually wear an 18 in jeans. I'm an 18 in these.
I have gotten the long inseam on them all, and it hits the top of my foot. I can roll it up for a shorter/summer look. I like them more snug. Wear/care: I wash these in cold and dry them in the dryer. If they shrunk at all, it wasn't noticeable. Cons: the only thing these are missing is front pockets, but for this price and for how much I love them, it isn't a dealbreaker. There are functional back pockets that can hold my phone." —A. Mather
Psst — if you have Amazon Prime Wardrobe you can try this piece out before you buy it!
Get it from Amazon for $17.73+ (available in women's sizes 2–28, three inseams, and 16 colors).
24. And finally, Maybelline's Total Temptation eyebrow pencil to fill in your brows until they look full as ever!
The tool comes with two ends, one a small eyebrow brush and the other a specially edged eyebrow pencil.
Promising review: "I've significantly reduced how much/what types of makeup I've been using (only using under-eye concealer, eye brightener, and mascara). Instead, I focus on a great skincare routine, which has dramatically improved my skin (I'm 42, and this is HUGE for me), and I only use makeup on my eyes, and a ChapStick or tinted lip moisturizer.
Prior to buying this, I didn't use anything on my brows, because, besides a couple barely noticeable spots where they were thinner, they're pretty okay. I bought this, just to try, because the price was great. This pencil is very forgiving. If you put on too much you can easily blend it in with the spool on the other end.
I got the soft brown, which was a perfect match. You can also wipe any off with your finger or a cotton swab if you get it on the skin above or below your brow. I do like the look of my eyes when I use the pencil to define my brows. I think my eyes look more striking and awake. I'll continue to use this product, and I would buy it again. The first day I got this, I tried it at night, forgot I had it on, and went to sleep with it, and when I woke up, it was still intact. So I can say it's long wearing and didn't smudge at all!" —ALP
Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in seven shades).