Our 20s are more important than we think when it comes to taking care of our skin. Of course, during these college years it is hard to avoid the late nights and unhealthy consumption of coffee, but there are anti-aging habits to adopt in your 20s that will benefit your skin in the future. Sure, we’ve got a ways to go till then, but trust me, its time to get started!
Always Apply SPF
No matter the season or the temperature outside, you should always wear sunscreen. No matter what. SPF is invaluable in maintaining a youthful complexion and protecting the skin from UV damage. It will help prevent against dark spots and melanoma. If you have a hard time remembering to add the extra step to your morning skincare routine, invest in double duty foundation or moisturizer that has SPF in the formula. SPF 30 is the ideal strength for daily use, but if you’re going to be out in the sun all day opt for SPF 50 for the extra protection.
Seriously, Stop Going To Bed With A Face of Makeup
We all already know this, but there are those late nights where you just want to go home and go straight to sleep. It’s time you start doing something about it! Sleeping with a face of makeup can cause wrinkles, breakouts, and even infections. For these reasons, it is worth taking the few extra minutes before bed to take off your makeup. I like to use micellar water on a cotton pad to remove my makeup, it is gentle on the skin and does a really good job of breaking down product. For the couple of us that are super lazy, have a pack of face wipes on your nightstand, to remove your makeup as you are falling asleep.
Indulge In A Weekly Face Mask
So many aspects of your daily life can cause clogged pores, that is why you need a weekly clay mask. This will give your skin a deep clean, leaving your complexion glowing. You can also use an exfoliating mask to help with cell turnover and getting rid of dead skin cells. Pick one night out of the week where you can relax and do a mask. Make this a ritual you can look forward to, and you definitely won’t forget to do it!
(photo via @jaidabrinkley_)
Toner Is Key To A Deep Clean
For some of us, our 20s can be our greasy time. Many people think of toner as an unnecessary step, but it is actually a crucial one. Even after you cleanse your face, there is always makeup and dirt residue that is left behind. Soak and cotton pad and sweep (do not harshly rub) it on your face. You will be surprised how dirty the pad will be after! Toner not only balances the oils in your T-zone, it also hydrates dry patches. My favorite product is witch hazel toner, it does its job and is 100% natural.
Keep Your Skin Hydrated
This is one step that people skip because they think it will make them more oily. That is not the case. Not using moisturizer will actually make your skin more oily. Your skin will be thirsty and actually produce more oils to compensate for the lack of hydration. By using moisturizer, it prevents flaking and dullness, boosts hydration, and reduces the rate of premature wrinkles. You should have both a morning and night moisturizer. Your morning moisturizer should be oil free and include SPF, like the product shown above. For night, my personal go to moisturizer is coconut oil. It can be used all over your body and will be that perfect about of hydration your skin needs.
Not only do you have to moisturize your face, but you need to moisturize under the eyes to keep the most delicate part of your face hydrated and bright. You are never too young to wear eye cream. Using this will help with puffiness, dark circles, and will reverse some of the most difficult signs of aging. You should apply eye cream both in the A.M. and P.M.
Cleanse On The Regular
While most of us already use cleansers, it is important to choose one based on your skin type and does not contain any harsh ingredients. It is important to be informed and know what ingredients are in your skincare products. Take your time to do research and read labels, your skin will thank you in the future. My all time favorite, of course, is Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap, but from time to time I opt for something different to switch it up now and again.
Get Your ZZZ’s
Sleep is something we definitely lack in our college years. It is important to try your best to make sure you get your needed hours and try to stay on a schedule. Lack of sleep disrupts valuable overnight repair that works against, inflammation, dark circles, uneven skin tone, wrinkles and sagging skin. If that doesn’t make you want to get your rest, I don’t know what will! In other words, Beyoncé got a lot of z’s to “wake up like this.”
(photo via @itsandie)
It may seem like a lot, however, they are quick, easy preventative measures that your skin will definitely thank you for in the future.
