If you’re in your twenties, you may think your skin is invincible. It’s taut and plump even when you first wake up in the morning, and it looks even better when you have a nice tan. Unfortunately, this joyride only lasts so long. By the end of most people’s twenties, there are already slight crinkles starting to form on the sides of the mouth, and a few dark spots may have even popped up on the hands, face, and chest. To prevent early signs of aging down the line in your thirties, forties and beyond, you have to take good care of your skin in your twenties.
Stay out of the Sun
This is the most important advice you can use for avoiding a face full of wrinkles in your forties and fifties. Even the smallest amount of ultraviolet rays from the sun can damage your skin over time. This means you should be wearing sunscreen every day, even on overcast days.
To simplify your skincare regimen, simply choose a foundation or moisturizer that already has an SPF of 30 or higher in it. You can also protect your skin from UV rays by wearing sunglasses, long sleeves, and hats. Finally, don’t forget that sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours if you’ll be out in the sun for the entire day. If you’re swimming, reapply it every hour.
If you Smoke, Quit Now
Researchers have examined the skin of twins in their forties and fifties. In their studies, one twin is a smoker and has been for most of their adult life. The other twin never smoked. The results showed that the twin who smoked had significantly more skin damage, wrinkles, creases, and dark spots. Smoking cuts off the normal blood supply to the skin, and in turn the skin ages much more rapidly. If you are currently a smoker, talk to your doctor about ways to quit. There are patches, gum packs, and even fake cigarettes that can help you kick the habit.
Have a Go-to Skincare Regimen
Lastly, you should have a set skincare regimen that you religiously follow. Each morning and night, wash your face with a gentle cleanser that is non-comedogenic or in other words, won’t clog pores. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel. In the morning, apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or higher. At night, apply a moisturizer containing retinol. Retinol is derived from vitamin A and is extremely powerful at preventing wrinkles. You can’t wear it during the day because it accelerates sun damage. Also apply an eye cream at night to prevent fine lines around the eyes.
Remember, even little things can reduce your chances of having smooth and clear skin in your older years. Avoid rubbing or touching your face, and don’t squint. This can cause deep creases to form over time. In addition, try to sleep on your back when possible. A scrunched face on your stomach or side can also cause wrinkles to set in. Follow all of the advice above and you will enjoy youthful skin long after your youth has ended.
