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In another life I worked at the freestanding Kiehl’s shop inside Nordstrom, so it’s a brand that’s near and dear. What’s not to love about clean and simple formulas and old-school packaging that a college girl can actually afford? In honor of the grand opening, here are my tried-and-true favorites from the line:

(clockwise)  Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado ($27) – My first eye cream and still the one for basic moisture. Lives up to its creamy creamy name yet makeup-friendly. Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 ($19) – Just plain perfect. Buy the biggest bottle for the entire family. Rice and Wheat Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioning Rinse ($18) – My review says it all. Soothing Gel Masque ($19.50) – The best oil-free hydrating treatment I’ve ever used. I call it the “going out” mask.  Lip Balm #1 ($7) – I just HAD TO HAVE this grown-up looking little tube in high school. So much cooler—and better—than Chapstick. And isn’t the gift set irresistible?  Rosa Artica Youth Generating Cream ($60) – Have yet to try this newish addition to the line, but I NEED that minty green jar.  Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle ($19) – Not for me, for Mr. Bets. The only thing he’ll use for that tingly, soothing, bump-free feeling.

Are you devoted to any Kiehl’s products? Do tell.

A: Congrats on 40! If I recall, it was Oprah’s favorite decade, before she hit 50. . .  It’s also the time when the visible signs of aging dig in their heels. The eye area is the most delicate, so typically the first to wrinkle. I’m in my early 30s and already know a thing or two about crow’s feet. And no, they don’t build character and I’m tired of people calling them laugh lines when they aren’t funny. But back to you, Stephanie M. Your first line of defense is sunblock. I say “block” because it tends to be less irritating around the eyes than a chemical sunscreen. Try: Kiehl’s Ultra Moisturizing Eye Stick SPF 30 ($20)

Your most powerful weapon is retinol, the gold standard of over-the-counter wrinkle-fighting treatments. Retinol also stimulates the production of collagen, which helps prevent new wrinkles from forming, and diminishes dark circles! Since retinol can be drying and is sensitized by the sun, I suggest wearing it only at night. Try: ROC Multi-Correxion Eye Treatment ($25)

During the day, go for a super moisturizing eye cream that will help plump up those fine lines and make them look smaller. There are loads of options on the market, but I’m crazy about the latest crop that contain illuminators which brighten up the entire eye area and make you look deceivingly more well-rested. Try: Origins GinZing Eye Cream ($29.50)

This weekly column features beauty advice from yours truly, with help from some of the brightest experts in the business. Whether you’re searching for the best bronzer or contemplating Botox, send questions to elizabeth@beautybets.com

This is my husband, Greg. He’s a mountaineer.

Greg is NOT a beauty junkie.

I am lucky if I can get him to wash his face.

He is, however, very selective about sunscreen. It can’t smell or sting and it has to work. He has probably tested dozens over the years without even realizing it (I’m good like that). Here are the three that have passed the test and remain staples in our house—and his 70-pound backpack. You don’t have to be a man or a mountaineer to appreciate their benefits.

Ole Henriksen Skin Insulator with SPF 15 ($35)
This rich, cushiony cream is calming and nourishing, thanks to linseed extract and grape seed oil. It doesn’t irritate Greg’s skin post-shave, so it’s the perfect daily moisturizer during cooler months when his skin is dry.

Kiehl’s All-Sport Non-Freeze Face Protector SPF 30 ($18.50)
This hockey puck-sized pot is filled with a wax-based, water-resistant balm that creates a physical barrier between your skin and the sun, wind, and water. It’s also perfect for protecting lips. Nothing gets through this stuff!

Coppertone Sport Continuous Spray SFP 70 ($11)
Old school and completely unglamorous, this is hard-core sun protection. The new spray application is hands-free, so it’s ideal when you’re dangling off a cliff at 14,000 feet, or at the beach, covered in sand.