It is inevitable that we all age; skin will lose elasticity and slowly the signs of aging will become apparent with brown spots, and fine lines and wrinkles. However, it is important to note that how you treat your skin in your twenties will forever be apparent later in life. Beginning a preventive maintenance skin care program in your twenties will help maintain a youthful glow well into your 40′s.
Our skin ages in two ways: the accumulated physical changes normally associated with the passage of time (chronological aging) and through the accumulated damage caused by exposure to environmental pollutants and UV radiation (accelerated aging). Both of these types of aging can be slowed down with proper skin care and protection.
Your twenties could be considered the age of prevention, when most skin care issues start with lack of care. Forgetting to wash your face before bed can lead to clogged pores, whiteheads and blackheads. Squinting in the sun and not using moisturizers can contribute to fine dry lines around the eyes. Too little sleep, too much alcohol and smoking can dull the complexion. Serious sunburn can now set the stage for age spots, and worse yet set the stage for some form of skin cancer including melanoma
The first step in developing the right skin care program to ward off premature aging is to determine your skin type. Is your skin on the dry side, oily or a combination of both – knowing your skin type will ensure that you have selected the most beneficial skin care products. If you are not sure how to determine your skin type read my article “How to Determine Your Skin Type”.
Your beauty regimen should consist of daily cleansing, toning and moisturizing. No matter what skin type you have (dry, oily, or combination) these steps are the key to great skin. For those with dry skin, avoid lathering type cleansers, and toners that are alcohol based. Your moisturizer should be rich in emollients. For those with oily skin, do not over dry the skin with to harsh of skin care products, this only leads the skin to produce more oil to combat that “dry” skin feeling.
Exfoliates and Masks:
A good exfoliate stimulates skin cells, cleans pores and sloughs off dead skin. No matter what skin type, an exfoliate is recommended, and depending on your skin type and the type of exfoliate, they should be used as needed. Additionally, facial masks do wonder to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Sunscreen – Although we hear it over and over again, don’t leave home without your sunscreen on. Sunscreen will protect your skin from those age spots that will eventually show up later in life or worse yet development of some form of skin cancer.
On a personal note, look for products that contain natural ingredients such as green tea, jojoba oil, or aloe vera just to name a few. Better yet consider making your own toners, masks, and exfoliates. By taking care of your skin in your twenties you will be rewarded in your 40′s by less wrinkles, age spots, and an overall beautiful complexion.