Skin care in your 20s

When it comes to skincare, your twenties are often the time when you don’t think about it, yet it’s the time to get serious about that complexion.
There are a number of anti-ageing steps that many experts say are important to start as early as possible: women should start being proactive about anti-ageing in their 20s.
Research shows that by the age of 25, the two structural proteins in our skin – collagen (which keeps it firm, tight and resilient) and elastin (which gives skin its suppleness, allowing it to stretch and then snap back into place) decline.

Here are some routine tips to implement at your own pace

Don’t skimp on exfoliation	To continue the daily renewal of collagen, exfoliate regularly. Products containing salicylic, alpha and/or beta hydroxy acids will help exfoliate dead skin cells and dirt from the skin’s surface, as well as penetrate below the surface to unclog pores, prevent future breakouts, smooth texture and stimulate cell renewal.
Never underestimate the power of SPF	The sun is the number one cause of external skin ageing, and people should be concerned about this level of sun exposure because it is not always thought of in everyday life. It is essential to protect yourself at all times as accidental sun exposure is always present, regardless of the season and contributes to premature skin ageing. That’s why the key to any healthy skin regime is to use a daily SPF product all year round.
Your diet is important, as is exercise	Drink plenty of fluids, eat fresh green vegetables and lots of fibre; supplement with vitamin D3. Exercise regularly and live a healthy lifestyle for maximum health.
Cleaning (and finding the right cleaner) is essential	It is important to cleanse your face in the morning and evening. As you age, your skin has different needs. You may not realise it, but at this stage of your skin’s life cycle, your oil glands start to shrink. Choose gentle cleansers that won’t damage your skin’s hydrolipidic film. Even if you have acne, the skin does not have to be perfectly clean. Too much scrubbing only exacerbates the problem as it can cause irritation and lead to more breakouts.
Opt for humectants	It is imperative to incorporate a moisturiser with humectants to help the skin absorb and retain moisture. But before you reach for a rich cream or foundation, remember that oil isn’t always a friend. Instead, look for moisturising ingredients that will work well with your skin. It’s always good to look for hyaluronic acid as an active ingredient as it hydrates via those humectants that essentially suck water vapour out of the atmosphere and into the skin. Hyaluronic acid is a natural ingredient found in the body that is completely compatible with the skin and does not cause rashes, which may still be a concern in this decade. It helps plump the skin and reduces fine lines, so you look instantly refreshed. Switch to an oil-free formula, especially in warmer temperatures.
Retinol is a key, multi-tasking ingredient	Your skin begins to lose the ability to repair itself in your twenties, so it’s important to start early with an anti-aging regimen. Using a conservative application of retinol and glycolic will significantly slow down the aging process while establishing a healthy routine. Not only is retinol an excellent anti-aging agent, but it also helps fight acne, making the star ingredient a skin care favorite. There is actually a lot of crossover between acne and anti-ageing products. Retinoids cover both problems, as do peels. Bakuchiol is a new natural alternative to retinol, a powerful plant-based ingredient perfect for sensitive skin.
Never sleep with your make-up on	This can block the pores, leaving oil trapped inside. This leads to a build-up of bacteria and, yes, rashes. It can also stretch the pores, which no one wants.
Treat adult acne gently	Acne occurs well beyond high school, but it is important to treat it before it gets worse. During this age, a few random breakouts may still emerge. Don’t over-dry your skin with astringent products.
Start your anti-ageing regime	Including at least one anti-aging product in your skincare routine could be a good way to ease the process and also try ingredients that work for you. Start with a product that contains vitamin C or other antioxidants. These products help prevent premature aging by preventing the oxidative damage that occurs with UV exposure and environmental pollution.
Don’t overdo it	It is important to remember that doing too much can cause irritation and damage. Some people use products that are too harsh or irritating to their skin, such as using too strong a retinol or products that are too exfoliating. If you are looking to solve sensitivity problems and your skin care regime is not giving you the results you want, just change one product at a time or you may have a reaction, and if you use five new products at a time, you will have no idea what is causing it. Use a new product for at least four weeks before adding another to your routine.