We’ve all heard that age-old advice, “prevention is better than cure,” and if you’re still in your early twenties, this couldn’t be more true in the world of skincare.
This is the time to really take the reins on your skin because what you do now will make a big difference in your thirties and forties.
We’ve got the inside scoop from a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Shereene Idriss, on the three must-have skincare essentials to start including in your twenties – trust us, your future self will thank you.
Keep reading for the lowdown!
Sunscreen
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Yep, it’s pretty obvious, but sometimes the basics get overlooked.
Making sunscreen a non-negotiable step before stepping out into the sun is imperative. Our skin shields us from harmful ultraviolet radiation, making sunscreen a vital defence against the damaging effects of UV rays.
Even on gloomy days or when you’re indoors, your skin remains vulnerable to the sun’s rays, leading to issues like skin cancer, discolouration, and wrinkles down the road.
Once you get into the habit of washing your face and slathering on sunscreen, it becomes a lifelong habit that pays off.
Bonus: your bank account will thank you too, because you won’t be shelling out for loads of laser treatments in the future!
Related reads:
- 15 best sunscreen sticks to keep your skin protected while you’re on the go
- 14 best sunscreen serums for a double-dose of skin benefits
- 18 best body sunscreens to slather on, including lightweight and non-greasy picks!
Retinol
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Ever wondered how to achieve that coveted glass-like skin? The secret lies in incorporating retinol into your skincare regimen.
According to Dr. Idriss, making retinol a part of your routine will gradually even out and smooth your skin, giving you a more uniform tone and minimising those pesky fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen production.
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is a key ingredient in various skin products with anti-ageing effects and the added benefit of acne clearance. It’s crucial to note that not everyone can tolerate retinol. Dr. Shereene’s advice? It’s all about consistency over intensity.
No need for a prescription – an over-the-counter option a few times a week in your twenties sets the stage for glowy skin in your thirties and forties.
You can always amp up the intensity as your skin’s needs change.
Related reads:
- 16 best retinol creams that smoothen wrinkles, fade dark spots, and clear acne scars
- Ingredients you should and shouldn’t mix with retinol
- Beginner’s guide to retinol serum: Everything you need to know about this anti-ageing wonder
Antioxidants
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If you’re keen on protecting your skin against free radicals and keeping that collagen intact, an antioxidant in your skincare routine is a must.
This will protect your skin from premature ageing due to stress, the environment, pollution, and more.
Vitamin C, a popular antioxidant, is recommended by Dr. Idriss. Naturally present in your skin, vitamin C helps maintain skin firmness, but collagen production slows with age.
Applied topically, vitamin C encourages new collagen growth, preserves existing collagen, and shields it from damage.
Dr. Idriss also suggests incorporating coenzyme Q10, an excellent morning skincare ingredient. Q10 is known for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting collagen production, and preserving skin elasticity.
Related read: This antioxidant is supposedly better than vitamin C – here’s what it can do for your skin
By following these three steps consistently, you’ll be diligent about your skincare routine, paving the way for remarkable results in the future.
Featured image credits: @mcloving.friedrice/TikTok, @_skincaretips101_/TikTok, @yurileeeee/Tiktok.
