Skin Care in Your 20s: Essential Practices for a Lifetime of Healthy Skin
Your 20s are a crucial time to establish a skin care routine and adopt healthy habits that will benefit your skin for years to come. According to board-certified dermatologist Rajani Katta, MD, FAAD, the skin care choices you make now will significantly impact the appearance of your skin in your next decade and beyond.
6 Skin Care Practices to Start in Your 20s
With the numerous skin care products and trends available, it can be challenging to determine what’s best for your skin. To provide guidance, we consulted two board-certified dermatologists to share their expertise on the most effective skin care practices for women in their 20s.
Use These Two Skin Care Products Daily
To maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin, dermatologists recommend using the following two skin care products every day:
- A mild cleanser suitable for your skin type. Dr. Katta advises, “For example, if you have acne-prone skin, use a mild cleanser that removes oil. Dry skin does better with a hydrating cleanser.” To get the best results, wash your face twice a day, in the morning and before bed, and also after sweating.
- Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum, and water-resistant. Any time you plan to be outside during the day, even if it’s just for a short walk or drive to work, you expose your skin to the sun’s harmful rays. Apply sunscreen to your face and any uncovered skin 15 minutes before going outdoors, and always after other skin care products and beneath your makeup.
Add a Skin Care Product that Addresses Your Primary Skin Concern
In your 20s, women’s skin care concerns can vary greatly, says Dr. Katta. While some women struggle with acne-prone skin, others may notice fine lines and other signs of aging, or dark spots. The best way to address your concerns is to use a skin care product containing science-backed ingredients, according to board-certified dermatologist Rebecca Baxt, MD, FAAD.
Some recommended ingredients include:
- Vitamin C serum or cream: Science shows that this ingredient can reduce skin aging and dark spots. Apply it after washing your face in the morning, before putting on your sunscreen.
- Retinoid: A catch-all term for vitamin A-based products, retinoids can treat mild fine lines and wrinkles, acne, and dark spots, and improve skin texture. If you’re looking to treat uneven skin tone, dark spots, or skin texture, look for the word retinol. Apply a retinoid before bed, after washing your face and waiting 20 to 30 minutes.
Make Your Skin Care Routine Adjustable, Consistent, and Tailored
To create an effective skin care routine, Dr. Katta advises her patients to build ACT into their skin care: Adjustable, Consistent, and Tailored.
- Adjustable: Be prepared to adjust your skin care routine as needed. For example, you may need a moisturizer during the winter when the air tends to be dry. If a product irritates your skin, stop using it immediately.
- Consistent: Consistency is key to seeing results from your skin care products. Unless a product is irritating your skin, continue using it for at least 30 days to determine its effectiveness.
- Tailored: Create a skin care routine tailored to your specific needs and concerns. What works for someone else may not work for you.
One Thing Women in Their 20s Can Do to Keep Their Skin Looking Youthful
Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, according to Dr. Baxt. “Wear sunglasses and a hat, a broad-brimmed hat works best. Seek shade. Your future self will thank you!” Dr. Katta adds, “Wear big sunglasses! The big lenses help to protect the delicate skin around your eyes, which can prevent those fine lines that many people start seeing in their 30s.”
Healthy Habits for Healthy Skin
In addition to a skin care routine, Dr. Baxt and Dr. Katta emphasize the importance of maintaining healthy habits to keep your skin looking its best.
- Stop tanning: Tanning is detrimental to your skin and overall health, says Dr. Baxt. “Every day, dermatologists tell their patients that it can cause wrinkles, brown spots, and skin cancer.”
- Protect your skin from the sun: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends seeking shade, covering up with clothing, and wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance.
- Don’t scrub your skin: Scrubbing can irritate your skin and make it harder to tolerate helpful products.
- Always remove your makeup before going to bed: Leaving makeup on while you sleep can age your skin more quickly and cause breakouts.
- Limit sugar: Dr. Katta advises limiting sugar intake, as excessive sugar consumption can negatively impact your skin.
Be Cautious of Skin Care Trends on Social Media
Some skin care trends on social media can do more harm than good, warns Dr. Katta. “Overusing exfoliating products is a common issue dermatologists see. An exfoliator can damage the protective layer called the skin barrier, leaving you with raw and irritated skin.” To get reliable skin care advice, follow board-certified dermatologists on social media, such as the American Academy of Dermatology’s platforms.
See a Dermatologist if You Have a Skin Condition
If you have a skin condition that affects your quality of life, such as eczema or rosacea, Dr. Baxt recommends seeing a board-certified dermatologist for personalized guidance.
Conclusion
Your 20s are an ideal time to establish a skin care routine and adopt healthy habits that will benefit your skin for years to come. By following the advice of board-certified dermatologists and being mindful of your skin care choices, you can maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin. If you’re unsure about which products to include in your routine, consult a board-certified dermatologist for personalized recommendations.
FAQs
What are the essential skin care practices to start in your 20s?
Using a mild cleanser and sunscreen daily, and adding a product that addresses your primary skin concern.
How often should I wash my face?
Twice a day, in the morning and before bed, and also after sweating.
What type of sunscreen should I use?
Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum, and water-resistant.
What ingredients should I look for in a skin care product?
Vitamin C and retinoids, which can help reduce skin aging, dark spots, and improve skin texture.
How can I make my skin care routine effective?
By making it adjustable, consistent, and tailored to your specific needs and concerns.
What are some healthy habits for healthy skin?
Stopping tanning, protecting your skin from the sun, not scrubbing your skin, removing makeup before bed, and limiting sugar intake.
How can I get reliable skin care advice?
By following board-certified dermatologists on social media, such as the American Academy of Dermatology’s platforms.
When should I see a dermatologist?
If you have a skin condition that affects your quality of life, such as eczema or rosacea.
