20 BEST 40TH-BIRTHDAY GIFTS TO RING IN THE NEXT DECADE

Turning 40 is a milestone worth celebrating in style, and the perfect gift can make it even more special. The best 40th-birthday gifts reflect the recipient’s personality and interests, ensuring they feel truly appreciated on their big day. Whether you’re shopping for a best friend, a hard-to-please family member, or a partner who seems to have everything, we’ve got something to impress them.

For a hassle-free option, a curated gift set is always a winner—especially if it includes indulgent beauty finds. Prefer a more personal touch? Create a themed gift box tailored to their interests, whether it’s a spa-inspired self-care kit, travel must-haves, or cozy home essentials. Personalized gifts, like a custom book or monogrammed accessories, show thoughtfulness and effort, making them extra meaningful. If you’re looking to go big—perhaps with a group gift or a luxurious splurge—an upscale item will leave a lasting impression.

Our golden rule for gifting? Choose something they wouldn’t typically buy for themselves but would be absolutely thrilled to receive. From thoughtful presents for women to fun finds for men and sentimental treasures for loved ones, our gift guide takes the guesswork out of shopping. Just don’t forget to top it off with a heartfelt, handwritten card they’ll cherish forever.

INSTANATURAL VITAMIN C TONER – $12.55 (AMAZON), $20.00

Give her skincare routine a refresh with this brightening toner. Infused with witch hazel, lavender, and botanical extracts, it helps cleanse and hydrate while combating signs of aging. One reviewer raved, “My skin looks hydrated and smoother instantly—so glad I tried this product!”

MOROCCANOIL SHOWER GEL CLEANSER – $20.00 (AMAZON, SEPHORA, MOROCCANOIL)

Treat her to a little luxury in the shower with this ultra-hydrating body wash. Former Shop TODAY editor Ellen Abraham describes it as “an affordable luxury that smells amazing and leaves your skin silky smooth.” Ideal for those with sensitive skin, this cleanser is a must-have.

AOA STUDIO PAW PAW COLLECTION GIFT SET – $25.55 (MISS A), $31.60

For the homebody who loves a little pampering, this set is a beauty lover’s dream. It includes cozy slippers, a highlighter set, a handheld mirror, and more for the ultimate self-care experience.

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS MINI SPICE EYESHADOW PALETTE – $29.00 (ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS, ULTA, SEPHORA)

A makeup essential for everyday looks or glamorous nights out. Featuring warm and shimmery tones, this palette is a favorite among beauty lovers. Ellen Abraham says, “This timeless eyeshadow palette has everything you need for both natural and bold styles.”

DEARFOAMS EZ FEET SCUFF SLIPPER – $37.99 (WALMART)

After a long day, her feet will thank her for these ultra-cozy slippers. Made with 100% Australian sheepskin lining and plush cushioning, they provide ultimate comfort and warmth.

THE COMFY ORIGINAL OVERSIZED MICROFIBER & SHERPA WEARABLE BLANKET – $41.99 (AMAZON), $49.99 (QVC), $54.99

For someone who’s always cold, this wearable blanket is a game-changer. It’s oversized, ultra-soft, and perfect for lounging around the house—or even staying cozy outdoors.

BALA BANGLES – $55.00 (AMAZON, TARGET)

These stylish, adjustable weights add extra resistance to workouts, whether worn on wrists or ankles. A favorite among fitness enthusiasts, Bala Bangles are perfect for elevating her cardio sessions.

SAHIRA JEWELRY DESIGN DARIA HOOPS – $58.00 (SAHIRA)

A timeless jewelry piece, these tarnish-free gold hoops are a perfect addition to her accessory collection. Simple yet stylish, they’ll complement any outfit effortlessly.

ARTIS FINI COSMETIC BRUSH – $65.00 (HSN)

If she’s looking to upgrade her makeup tools, this premium blending brush is a must-have. Shop TODAY editor Rebecca Brown says, “I’d heard so much about Artis brushes—I tried it, and it’s hands down the best blending tool I own.”

SWEEJAR STORE PORCELAIN TEA SET – BRITISH ROYAL SERIES – $69.99 (AMAZON), $75.99

For lovers of historical dramas and elegant tea parties, this stunning tea set includes a teapot, teacups, saucers, a sugar bowl, a cream pitcher, and a stainless-steel strainer. Perfect for an afternoon of relaxation and conversation.

STILOSA ESPRESSO MACHINE BY DE’LONGHI – $75.99 (TARGET), $83.99, $99.95 (QVC)

A coffee lover’s dream! This compact yet powerful espresso machine makes barista-quality coffee at home. Senior Partnership Editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil says, “There’s truly no better way to start my day.”

RENÉE ROULEAU TRIPLE BERRY SMOOTHING PEEL – $88.50 (RENÉE ROULEAU)

This antioxidant-rich peel helps brighten and even skin tone, making it a skincare essential. “I use this peel weekly, and it has transformed my skin,” says Ellen Abraham.

VERA BRADLEY WEEKENDER TRAVEL BAG – $101.25 (VERA BRADLEY), $135.00

Spacious, stylish, and durable, this quilted weekender bag is perfect for quick getaways. Made of nylon, it’s lightweight yet sturdy—ideal for frequent travelers.

AERANGIS DISCOVERY JOURNEY GIFT SET – $110.00 (AERANGIS, ETSY)

If one candle isn’t enough, this set offers three signature scents, a wick trimmer, and a scent story card for a luxurious aromatherapy experience.

NEW YORK TIMES CUSTOM BIRTHDAY BOOK – $125.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)

A thoughtful keepsake, this book compiles The New York Times front pages from every year since her birth—perfect for history buffs and nostalgic moments.

HATCH RESTORE SMART SLEEP ASSISTANT – $169.99 (HATCH)

For the woman who needs better sleep, this all-in-one device combines a sound machine, sunrise alarm, smart light, and meditation app to create the ultimate nighttime routine.

LILYSILK TRIMMED SILK WOMEN’S LONG-SLEEVE PAJAMA SET – $185.00 (LILYSILK)

Made from 100% grade 22 Momme Charmeuse silk, this ultra-luxurious pajama set is perfect for beauty sleep in style.

OSTRICHPILLOW GO NECK PILLOW – $69.00 (OSTRICHPILLOW, AMAZON)

Ideal for frequent travelers, this memory foam neck pillow offers 360-degree support for restful sleep—even on the most turbulent flights.

PERSONALIZED BOURBON BARREL FLIGHT WITH GLASSES – $85.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)

For whiskey lovers and entertainers, this handcrafted bourbon barrel flight comes with four tasting glasses—perfect for a refined home bar setup.

EMBER TEMPERATURE CONTROL SMART MUG² – $121.99 (AMAZON), $127.99 (TARGET), $149.95 (QVC)

No more cold coffee! This smart mug keeps drinks at the perfect temperature for hours. One happy customer shared, “It truly keeps my beverage at the same set temperature long enough for me to enjoy every last drop at my own pace!”

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11 HABITS OF WOMEN WHO AGE SLOWLY

As time passes, it’s a reminder that we aren’t getting any younger. This makes it even more important to prioritize both our internal health and the products we use on our bodies. To help slow down the aging process, many women have discovered some powerful beauty secrets. If you’re curious about how they maintain their youthful glow, here are the top 11 anti-aging beauty tips that can make a noticeable difference in a short amount of time!

eating a healthy diet

Simply put, when we nourish our bodies with healthy foods, it shows on the outside, helping us look and feel younger. What we put into our bodies directly affects our appearance and overall health, so focus on eating nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to slow down the aging process.

Whenever possible, opt for organic foods and eliminate processed options. Cut back on empty calories like potato chips and fries, which provide no real nutrients. While it can be tempting to indulge occasionally, try to make it a rare treat and keep portions small.

There are many healthy ways to feed your body, such as using intermittent fasting or choosing foods that support weight loss. And if you’re looking for a natural energy boost instead of coffee, consider replacing it with green tea or smoothies packed with energizing ingredients!

social stimulation

As we age, it’s easy to get caught up in work and family life, often leaving little time for socializing with friends. Over time, you may realize that your social circle isn’t what it used to be, which can lead to feelings of loneliness or depression. Studies show that social stimulation is not only good for mental health but can also help you live longer.

To keep feeling youthful, make social interaction a top priority. Aim to go out and connect with friends at least once a month, and try to engage with people throughout the week. This will not only boost your mood but will also help you feel younger—and that sense of vitality will shine through in your appearance!

QUITTING & REDUCING BAD HABITS

While it’s true that some people who drink and smoke may live to an old age, they are the exception, not the norm. Regularly smoking or drinking can take a serious toll on both your skin and internal health, ultimately speeding up the aging process.

For healthy, youthful skin and a body that functions at its best, it’s important to limit or eliminate these habits. Since alcohol and tobacco can be highly addictive, don’t hesitate to seek help from an addiction counselor and build a strong support system to stay on track with healthier choices. Your body will thank you in the long run!

religious skincare routine

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body? It’s also the first to show signs of aging, which is why it’s crucial to take care of it every day with a dedicated skincare routine. One of the most important steps is moisturizing—make it a daily habit to keep your skin hydrated and youthful.

Additionally, consider incorporating masks and deep cleansers into your routine to give your skin a boost. It’s important to understand your skin type—whether it’s dry, oily, or combination—so you can choose the right products. Consistency is key: following your skincare routine daily will help you achieve the glowing, age-defying skin you desire.

mental stimulation

Did you know that mental stimulation is one of the most powerful ways to defy the aging process? If you want to live longer and maintain a sharp mind, make it a point to engage in activities that stimulate your brain on a regular basis, such as reading or playing mind-challenging games.

Intelligence is one of the most important beauty secrets that often gets overlooked. Not only does it allow you to have more engaging conversations, but it also improves your memory and cognitive function, helping you stay mentally youthful for longer. Keep your mind active, and it will reflect in your overall vitality!

pay attention to dental hygiene

One aspect that’s often overlooked when it comes to maintaining a youthful appearance is dental health. Bad teeth can make you look older, so it’s important to take care of your smile. Make it a habit to brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, use mouthwash, and visit the dentist twice a year. This routine will not only help keep your teeth healthy but will also boost your confidence, encourage you to smile more, and contribute to a younger, more vibrant look.

REGULAR EXERCISE

When it comes to defying the aging process and feeling youthful, an active body is key. If you spend your days inactive, your body will become accustomed to being still, and simple tasks may start to feel more challenging. You might also notice unwanted weight gain creeping in.

That’s why regular exercise is essential if you want to look and feel younger. Beyond the aesthetic benefits, exercise is crucial for heart health. As heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., staying active is critical as we age to keep our hearts in top shape.

If you’re looking to get started, check out these beginner HIIT tips and fitness hacks that anyone can incorporate into their routine—even if you’re someone who prefers to stay lazy!

care for your mental health

As we age, the process of getting older can be stressful, and that stress can actually contribute to premature aging. To slow down this process, it’s essential to prioritize your mental health and manage stress. Establishing an active self-care routine and seeking therapy, if needed, can be incredibly beneficial.

Taking the time to care for your mental well-being will not only help you feel more relaxed and balanced, but it will also help you look and feel younger. Investing in your mental health today will pay off in a more youthful and vibrant you tomorrow.

taking supplements

To truly slow down the aging process, it’s essential to provide your body with all the nutrients it needs. On days when your diet isn’t as balanced as it should be, supplements can help fill in the gaps and ensure you’re getting everything your body requires.

Particularly important are vitamins B, C, E, and D. Vitamin B plays a key role in maintaining energy levels and supporting brain function. Vitamins C and E are vital for boosting the immune system, helping you stay healthy and ward off illness. Vitamin D, on the other hand, is crucial for bone health—something that becomes even more important as we age. Regularly including these vitamins in your routine can help support your body’s vitality and youthfulness.

DRINKING PLENTY OF WATER

Our bodies are primarily composed of water, which means staying properly hydrated is essential for optimal function. Without enough water, dehydration can set in, affecting not just your skin but also leading to fatigue, brain fog, headaches, and even constipation.

To keep your body and skin looking youthful and functioning at its best, experts recommend that women drink 11.5 cups of water per day, while men should aim for 15.5 cups daily. Proper hydration is a key factor in maintaining a healthy, age-defying body.

protecting yoursefl from the sun

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body? It’s also the first to show signs of aging, which makes it essential to take care of it every day with a dedicated skincare routine. One of the most important steps is moisturizing—make it a daily habit to keep your skin hydrated and youthful.

In addition, consider incorporating masks and deep cleansers into your routine to give your skin an extra boost. Understanding your skin type—whether dry, oily, or combination—is crucial for selecting the right products. Consistency is key: following your skincare routine daily will help you achieve the radiant, age-defying skin you’re aiming for.

conclusion

In conclusion, slowing down the aging process isn’t just about external beauty—it’s about taking care of your body, mind, and overall well-being. By staying active, hydrating, eating nourishing foods, limiting harmful habits, and maintaining a thoughtful skincare routine, you can preserve your youthful glow. Mental stimulation and managing stress also play crucial roles in staying young at heart. Remember, aging is a natural process, but with the right lifestyle choices, you can look and feel your best at any age. Prioritize your health and self-care, and the benefits will shine through in every aspect of your life.