Skincare in your 20s, prevention is better than cure when it comes to your skincare routines. Prevention is key in avoiding wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. The more you protect and pre-treat your skin with proper ingredients and formulas, the better equipped you are to combat signs of aging.
The biggest mistake most people make is not doing enough preventive skincare in their 20s. Causes of the visual signs of aging on the skin, especially sun exposure, create cumulative damage. That means that each exposure to damaging UVA/UVB rays and other potential aging factors adds up over time. The more steps you take to protect your healthy, youthful skin, the longer you’ll have it.
What to watch for in your 20’s
- Adult acne – If you struggled with acne in your teens, you may see breakouts diminishing or becoming less severe in your 20s. Whether or not you had acne during adolescence, you may find yourself struggling with newly developed adult acne caused by hormonal fluctuations as we age. This is especially common for women in their 20s.
- Early sun damage – Depending on your sun exposure and sun protection practices, you may begin to see signs of sun damage such as brown “sun” spots in your 20s.
- Early collagen loss – Collagen gives young skin its youthful smoothness and fullness. In the mid-20s, the production of collagen begins to slow down, leading to the appearance of the first fine lines and wrinkles in your 30s.
Top skincare tips in your 20s
- Sun protection – Diligent sun protection is the most important habit to establish in your 20s to impact the appearance and health of your skin in future decades. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. This should be applied daily and reapplied during the day. Apply to all the parts of your body that will be exposed to the sun, paying particular attention to the face, neck, chest, and hands which often show the first signs of sun damage. When outside for exercise or recreation, wear a brimmed hat and UPF protective clothing or swimwear.
- Cleanse – Use mild facial cleansers twice a day. At the end of the day, use micellar water or other gentle makeup removers to thoroughly remove makeup prior to cleansing. If you suffer from acne, use a cleanser that contains salicylic acid.
- Exfoliate –Look for chemical exfoliating products that include lactic, glycolic, or salicylic acids to use two or three times weekly, as these ingredients help to remove skin cells and promote cell turnover. Use loofas, scrubs, and other physical exfoliants with caution as you don’t want to unnecessarily irritate the skin. Dead skin cells can accumulate on your skin’s surface and cause the skin to look dry and dull. The pile-up of dead cells can also mix with sweat, oil, and makeup and potentially clog your pores, which can lead to blemishes. Regular exfoliation helps slough away surface build-up so that skin looks brighter, fresher, and younger.
- Moisturize – Moisturizer is a must for all ages and skin types – no exceptions! Twice a day, after cleansing. Moisturized skin is less likely to break out, is less affected by common skin health issues like eczema, and generally looks and feels better. While everyone’s skin is suited to some kind of moisturizer, the specific kind of moisturizer will vary depending on your age and skin type. While you’re in your 20s, use a fast-absorbing, water-based moisturizer.
- Eye Cream – You are never to young to start using a eye cream. Apply a hydrating sun cream, both morning and nights. If you suffer with puffiness around the eye area, try a eye gel instead. Eye creams help prevent fine lines and wrinkles and make your eye area feel firmer
- Retinoids – Your 20s are the perfect time to introduce retinoids into your daily skincare routine. Retinoids are great for building collagen to improve the firmness and density of skin and lightening pigmentation irregularities from sun damage. Begin with an over-the-counter retinol product 2-3 nights a week and gradually increase to nightly use. If it is too irritating, mix with a moisturizer before applying. If you have acne, you may benefit from a prescription retinoid cream to help unclog pores and reduce the skin’s oil production.
What products or tips do you have for skincare routines in your 20’s? Comment below.
