At the age of 20, my skincare routine was almost non-existent. Apart from using a regular facewash once or twice a day and a moisturiser only during the winters, there weren’t any other products I invested in. This was mostly because I didn’t feel like I needed to.
There is a common misconception that skincare should start when you’re older or in your 30s, but the truth is that the earlier you begin your skincare journey, the better your skin will look and feel in the long run. Now looking back, I have realised that I have deprived my skin of so many essential nutrients.
It is in your early 20s that your skin looks clear and glowy because the hormonal imbalance causing pimples and acne starts to subside. But did you know that by the time you’re 25, your body’s natural collagen and elastin production drop down significantly? These are the two components that are responsible for keeping the skin firm, taut, and flexible. This new change is accompanied by a whole new set of skincare problems. Hence, establishing a skincare routine that works for you during this phase of your life is important.
Also Read: Summer Skin Care Routine
Looking Back, Here Are A Few Things I Wish I Could Tell My 20-Year Old Self
If you’re worried about where to begin, don’t worry, these few skincare tips will put you on the path to healthy skin.
Exfoliation Is Important
The skin renews itself daily, but the accumulation of dead skin cells, dirt, grime, bacteria and other pollutants can hinder this process. To aid in the daily collagen renewal, exfoliation is necessary. When you exfoliate, you get rid of any unwanted particles that have settled on the skin’s surface. Regular exfoliation prevents clogged pores, resulting in fewer breakouts and other skin issues. It also increases collagen production, which is key to radiant, glowing skin.
Do A Double Cleanse When Needed
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Anyone who uses makeup should incorporate double cleansing products to their daily skin care regimen. Double cleansing is simple and doesn’t take up a lot of time. This method includes using an oil-based cleanser to melt your makeup, sunscreen, and other product that could be clogging your skin followed by cream, gel, or foam-based cleanser to get rid of all other impurities. This ensures that your face is cleaned thoroughly and that there are no remanents of dirt, bacteria, and makeup left.
Use A Toner
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Toners are the unsung heroes of the beauty world. If you suffer from acne, face toners are a lifesaver. Applying a soothing toner after cleansing your face can reduce the appearance of large pores, balance the skin’s pH levels, and add an extra layer of protection for your skin.
If you’re searching for the best toner try the GLOW Iridescent Brightening Toner by MyGlamm. Powered by Rosehip oil and infused with hyaluronic acid, this product seeps deep into the skin’s layers, recharges the skin, locks in moisture and tightens the skin, leaving you with an iridescent glow.
Hydration Is Important
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It doesn’t matter if you have dry, sensitive, or oily skin- it’s important to always keep the skin hydrated. Adding a moisturiser that’s suitable for your skin type will prevent issues like inflammation and irritation. A good moisturiser also boosts the epidermal cells, leaving your skin looking supple and smooth all day long.
The GLOW Iridescent Brightening Moisturising Cream is packed with powerful vitamins and antioxidants that strengthen and heal the skin. It locks in moisture, lifts the skin and enhances your skin’s natural radiance.
Get Your Daily Dose Vitamin C
A vitamin C face product can work wonders for the skin. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that not only protects the skin from free radicals caused by environmental aggressors but also slows down the signs of ageing. Daily use of a vitamin C serum can help repair damaged skin by encouraging healthy cell regeneration, leaving you with tighter and radiant overall skin.
Eye Cream Is A Necessity
Just ‘coz you use a moisturiser, doesn’t mean you get to skip using an eye cream. In fact, you should try avoiding moisturisers around the eyes as they may contain preservatives or fragrances that could cause irritation. This skin around the eye is extremely delicate and needs proper care. Eye creams are specially formulated for the skin around your eyes to keep it moisturised, hydrated, and reduce fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles.
Treat Acne Instead Of Picking At It
This rule applies to everyone regardless of their age. Let’s face it, we’re all guilty of popping a pimple or two. While popping pimples might seem like a quick solution, it damages the skin and even leaves behind scars. Aside from scarring which, BTW, is much more difficult to get rid of, pimple popping can spread the bacteria and puss to other pores and result in more acne. Hence, it’s crucial to properly treat pimples rather than pinching or pressing it. Even though retinol is a cult favourite for treating acne, it’s always better to first consult your dermatologist before applying any products on your face.
Remove Your Makeup Before Bed
There is a good reason why this point is repeated over and over again. When you sleep, your body works overtime to repair and renew the skin and makeup hinders that process. We understand that after a long night of partying, heading to the washroom to remove every trace of makeup seems impossible, but no matter how tired you are, your head shouldn’t hit the pillow if you still have makeup on.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Work your way to a healthy complexion from the inside-out, after all, there’s only so much your skincare products can do. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day and increasing your intake of fruits and veggies will keep your skin hydrated and increase the overall moisture level of your skin which in turn will giving you a fresher and more radiant complexion.
Clean Your Makeup Brushes
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It’s important to wash your makeup brushes at least once a week. Why? Well, your makeup brushes are a hub for bacteria and germs, and these nasties transfer to your face every time you use the brush which leads to acne, breakouts, and other skin issues.
Bonus: Washing them once a week will also get rid of accumulated makeup, resulting in a much smoother and flawless application.
Due to the pandemic, you can take extra measures to get rid of bacteria and germs. After washing your makeup brushes spritz a bit of the WIPEOUT Sanitizing Spray to get rid of any nasties that were left behind.
Wear Sunscreen Daily
Sunscreen is not to be used only during summertime. You need to get your daily dose of SPF every day of the year, come rain or shine. The harmful sun’s rays never take a break, even on cloudy days, so it’s important to protect your skin from these UVA and UVB rays. Applying sunscreen daily will save your skin from years of visible damage later.
Don’t Forget To Do A Patch Test
Almost every day, a new skincare or makeup product goes viral but before you jump on the trend bandwagon, be sure to always do a patch test to avoid skin irritation. Everybody has different skin types, and just because a product worked wonders for your friend doesn’t mean it will do the same for you. When you buy a new product, first, apply a small amount to your inner arm to see how your skin reacts to the formula. If it’s all good after 24 hours, you can go ahead and use it on your face.
It doesn’t matter if you just turned 20 or you’re in your 30s, it is never too late to incorporate these skincare habits into your daily routine.
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