20 is the new 40: why you should start using anti-aging products now

Image Courtesy: Strike FSU

Aging is a process that we all go through. No matter how it affects us we are always beautiful however if you want to try to prevent the inevitable here’s some guidance. As the adage about education goes, “It is never too early to start.” When it comes to skincare and specifically anti-aging regimens, the saying also applies. The name of the game when it comes to aging is prevention. So, instead of waiting for fine lines and wrinkles to appear and then attempting to treat them, start before they appear.

While wrinkles, fine lines, and other aging spots are all a normal part of life and don’t define your beauty. But if you want to prevent some of these things Dermatologists and experts agree that starting incorporating anti-aging products into your skincare routine at 20 can help decrease the damage done to your skin. By the time you turn 20, your skin cell turnover decreases which is a key component to keeping your skin looking young. As you age, changing up your products will also be important, but for now, let's unpack what you should be doing in your 20s.

First, you are going to want to figure out your skin type. Knowing whether you are dry, oily, or combination is going to help you pick the best anti-aging product for you. For example, those with dry skin might find an oil-based product too oily and strip their skin. Those with oily skin might prefer a serum that is not too hydrating. If you need help determining your skin type you can take the quiz here: https://askthescientists.com/skin-type-quiz/

After determining your skin type you are going to want to adopt products that will be easy to incorporate into your routine. Switching your moisturizer to one that has SPF is a great start that won’t add a step. Adopting an eye cream to use before bed can reduce under-eye bags and crow's feet and is just one more step. Adding another serum with retinol can help reduce sun damage and wrinkles and can be easily added after other serums you might use. Knowing which of these products to add to your routine is going to rely heavily on your skin type. Under most descriptions of products on their websites, a section will say what type of skin it works best for. Pay attention and make sure that you are looking for this! Buying the wrong product for your skin type can not only hurt your skin but also could make your dryness or oiliness worse.

Image Courtesy: Sephora

Figuring out which product to start with can be confusing. Most dermatologists recommend sunscreen, vitamin C serums, and peptide-based products for beginning your anti-aging journey. Choosing between a moisturizer, serum, cream, or sunscreen can be difficult. Add to that the choice of which vitamin base, or acid-base, and the choice can be daunting.

Image Courtesy: Rodan and Field

Some of my favorite products are The Ordinary “Buffet” serum, Drunk Elephant “Protini” polypeptide moisturizer, Rodan and Fields “Redefine” multi-function eye cream, and CeraVe “Facial Moisturizing Lotion” (with SPF 30). While I love these products, I have combination skin, so what works for me might not work for you! However, I have had great experiences with all of these brands so finding one of their products for your skin type if you have no idea where to begin might help you.

Image Courtesy: CeraVe

Using anti-aging products in your 20s is a great way to prevent future wrinkles, fine lines, and bags. Aging is a normal process and isn’t something we should ever feel pressure to change. But if using these products to prevent some aging makes you feel better about yourself then highly recommend it. As our cell production begins to slow down, remembering to pamper the outer layer of our skin is crucial. By incorporating these various products, and adding a step to your skincare routine, you can help reduce the damage that comes with aging. Doing your research on your skin type and choosing products that will work best for you is the best decision when it comes to anti-age products. But, most importantly, start now. Your future self will thank you later.

Strike Out,

Writer: Alyssa Cuevas

Editor: Cali Robins

Graphics: Audrey Estupinan

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