If you are confused as to how to put an age appropriate skin-care routine together, you’ve come to the right place. It can be intimidating standing in the aisle at a drug store, endlessly staring at the various types of cleansers, day/night creams, serums, exfoliators, moisturizers, etc. Categorized by age group, here are some recommended skin care regimens to follow in your 20’s:
This is the time period in which you must make good habits of properly taking care of your skin to maintain youthfulness. Applying sunscreen on an everyday basis is number one in preserving young skin, so if you can’t commit to a full skin care regimen, then at least start by applying sunscreen to your face daily. In one study, participants in the daily sunscreen group showed 24 percent less skin aging than those who applied SPF at their own discretion (Source: ACP). If you have dry skin, then it’s time to add a moisturizer to your routine. If you’ve suffered from acne in the past, it may be time to switch to a less aggressive acne treatment due to excessive drying.
The Basics:
Cleanser
You should be washing your face twice a day, however, cleansing at night time is most important because of buildup of toxins and dirt accumulated throughout the day. The number one no no is to sleep with makeup on, so using a cleanser is essential. If your skin is dry, try to use a cream-based cleanser to prevent over drying. If your skin is oily, using a cleanser containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide is the way to go (Source: NCBI)
Moisturizer
Use a moisturizer with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and one with a SPF of 30. Many dermatologists also recommend using a moisturizer that has zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for maximum coverage and protection (Source: UCSF). Be sure to apply the moisturizer all over your face and neck.
Nighttime Treatment
Try using a night cream that contains peptides, which are essential amino acids that may help in preventing fine lines and wrinkles. In a study of users who applied a peptide on the skin significantly reduced the total surface of wrinkles and a decrease in the depth of wrinkles. In addition it reduced the total and average length of wrinkles. (Source: NCBI). Whether you choose a cream or serum, it is best to choose one with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. “HA plays a central role in hydration and elasticity of skin” (Source: NCBI).
