Establishing a Skin Care Routine in Your 20s
Tips to Keep Your Skin Looking Young for Years to Come
Jun 10, 2009
Just because your skin looks great at 20-something,that doesn't mean you can ignore your skin and keep looking that way for years to come. If you don't establish a good skincare routine now, then ten years down the road you not be so happy with the face looking back in the mirror.
Sunscreen Staves Off Wrinkles
It's absolutely important to start a skin care routine in your 20s. The earlier, the better. The most important component? Sunscreen. The obvious worst-case side effect of too much sun exposure is skin cancer, but UVA/UVB rays are responsible for aging skin well before its time. Have you seen a picture of Lindsey Lohan lately? She may be in her early 20s but she appears much older and more world weary. The culprit – besides too much partying – is too much tanning.
Get in the habit of applying sunscreen every morning, under your make up or alone. Try to use at least SPF 20 and reapply throughout the day as necessary (if you are playing sports or swimming). If you must tan, make it fake.
Cleanse Your Skin to Keep it Clear
Another habit you must ban is going to bed without washing your face. Yes, I know, you spent your teenage years and early 20s coming home from a long night of partying and crashing into bed, then waking up with raccoon eyes. The fact is, make up can clog your pores if left on all day and night. Give your skin a chance to breathe.
Moisturize to Keep the Glow
Once your skin is clean, apply a moisturizer. A good pick is Hope in a Jar by Philosophy, which seems to work wonderfully with every skin type. It may seem contradictory to apply moisturizer if you still have oily skin, but find a formula that is oil-free. Your skin will thank you for it.
And don't forget the sensitive area around your eyes. You might be noticing more dark circles and puffiness than you used to have, but by using an eye cream you will look instantly more awake.
Prevent Wrinkles
It's not a bad idea to choose a moisturizer containing an anti-wrinkle product. The most effect wrinkle fighter is Retinol. You've probably heard of Retin-A, the stronger prescription version which is essentially Vitamin A. Retinol is a weaker version (and is less drying) that is sold over the counter. Many clinical studies prove this is the best method for reducing and preventing fine lines.
An affordable option is Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream. Try using it every other night at first and build up to nightly use. It may not seem like it is doing anything now, but the key is prevention. By establishing these habits when you're young, you're ensuring that your skin will look great for years to come.
 |
 |
