Decades of Skin: Your 20s

Your 20s are the perfect time to start laying the foundation for aging gracefully. By adopting healthy skincare habits now, you'll be setting yourself up for compliments on your flawless skin well into your 40s and beyond. Here’s how you can take care of your skin in your 20s:

First and foremost, STOP TANNING! This includes "laying out" in the sun, even if you are wearing sunscreen. Getting a slight tan is just as harmful as a sunburn, leading to freckles, brown spots, wrinkles, and discoloration. Instead, opt for spray tans or rub-on self-tanners to achieve your desired glow without damaging your skin.

 

Wear sunscreen on your face and neck every single day, regardless of the weather. An SPF built into your daily moisturizer is perfect. The ideal daily SPF is 30 or higher. Remember, even if you're not outside for long, any ultraviolet exposure can harm your skin. If you leave your house, you need sunscreen.

Moisturize daily, whether you have dry or oily skin. Moisturizing prevents skin dehydration, which can lead to premature aging by causing low levels of inflammation. Pro-tip: Get a daily moisturizer that contains SPF 30 to kill two birds with one stone.

Apply a prescription retinoid or over-the-counter retinol nightly. If you have acne, a prescription retinoid from your dermatology provider is recommended. Retinoids help to promote cell turnover, keeping your skin clear and youthful.

Look for Vitamin C and/or E containing topical products. These are often found in serums to be applied before sunscreen. You might even find a sunscreen that includes these antioxidants.

The habits you develop in your 20s will have a long-lasting impact on your skin's health and appearance. By avoiding tanning, consistently using sunscreen, moisturizing daily, and incorporating retinoids and antioxidants into your routine, you'll be well on your way to maintaining beautiful, youthful skin for decades to come. Start these practices now, and your future self will thank you!

For more personalized skincare advice, contact Dermatology Affiliates today and schedule a consultation with one of our experienced providers.