When you’re in your 20s, your skin still has a youthful appearance. The challenge is keeping it that way! Research has shown that by your mid-20s, the structural proteins in your skin start to decrease. Collagen keeps your skin firm and resilient, while elastin gives it flexibility. The less you have of each, the more signs of aging your skin will show. That’s why this is the perfect time to begin a proactive skincare routine!
If you’re not sure what your first steps should be, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. The team here at Dermatology Realm can help you maintain the long-term health of your skin, and you can help by implementing these simple tips into your daily (and nightly) routine starting now! Keep reading below to learn more about making the most of your 20s when it comes to Memphis skin care.
Always remove your makeup before bed
We’ve all fallen asleep with a full face of makeup on before—it happens! But making this a habit can be harmful to your skin by blocking the pores and trapping oil inside. This allows bacteria to build up, stretching the pores and causing breakouts. Look for a gentle cleanser that includes witch hazel, a natural toner with antioxidant and anti-irritant properties. Products with willow herb extract can also be helpful, as it is antibacterial by nature.
Find the right cleansers
Speaking of cleansers, it’s important to find the right one for you! If you’re still using the same cleansers and astringents you used in your teens, it may be time to reevaluate what your skin needs now. As we get older, our skin develops different needs. Teenagers are prone to oilier skin and acne, but the oil glands begin to shrink as you get into your 20s. That means that products designed to reduce oil and acne may be too strong now. This can lead to redness, flaking, and irritation.
You may still be suffering from occasional breakouts, but adult acne should be treated gently. Harsh cleansers and intense scrubbing can exacerbate the problem by causing irritation that leads to more breakouts. You should also avoid over-the-counter treatments that can dry your skin out. Our Laser Acne Treatment can be a great solution! We use a ThermaScan laser to heat the sebaceous glands in your skin, which can reduce active acne outbreaks for up to 6 months.
Don’t forget to exfoliate!
Exfoliating daily will help with the collagen renewal process. This will remove dead skin cells and dirt from your skin’s surface and go beneath the surface to unclog pores. Adding exfoliating into your daily skin care routine will help prevent future breakouts, smooth the texture of your skin, and boost cell renewal. For the best results, look for exfoliators that contain some combination of salicylic, alpha, and beta hydroxy acids.
Pay attention to SPF
UV rays are everywhere, all the time, whether the skies are sunny or grey. Even if you’re just inside working by a window or driving your car somewhere, you’re affected by UV radiation. These harmful rays can also bounce off surfaces like concrete, water, snow, or sand. Sun exposure is the number one cause of premature skin aging, and it’s already affecting you.
Using a quality SPF product year-round can help reduce the impact of UV rays. We carry a range of Obagi sunscreens, including the Sunshield Tinted, Mineral, and Matte options. You can only get these quality skin care products through a prescription, so give us a call or visit our Germantown office for more information!
Add an anti-aging product to your skincare routine
You’re still young, so there’s no need to throw everything at the skincare wall to see what sticks! You’ve got time to ease into the process by trying different ingredients to find what works for you. The easiest place to start is with products containing vitamin C or other antioxidants. These help prevent signs of aging by preventing the oxidative damage that can occur with UV exposure and environmental pollution.
Retinol is another multitasking ingredient. Conservative use of retinol in your 20s can slow down the aging process and establish a healthy skincare routine. It can also help keep acne at bay! There’s actually a fair bit of crossover between acne and anti-aging products, and retinol can cover both issues, making them a useful solution for adults struggling with problem skin.
Keep it simple
Making your skin a priority in your 20s is smart, but keep things simple, especially in the beginning. Using too many products can cause irritation and damage, especially if they’re harsh or drying. Strong retinoids and excess exfoliation can also lead to skin sensitivity. If you’re trying a new skin care routine and it isn’t giving you the results you want, simply change up one product at a time rather than all at once. This reduces the chance of you having a reaction you can’t pinpoint. Aim to use any new product for at least four weeks before adding another into your routine.
Keep your skin looking its best with Dermatology Center
Like the rest of your body, your skin will change in many ways over the years. While you might not be worried about the state of your skin in your 20s, this is the best time to establish a good skin care routine. You don’t have to do it alone, though!
Dermatology Realm offers a broad spectrum of medical and cosmetic Memphis skin rejuvenation treatments to enhance the natural beauty of your skin. Our team’s in-depth experience is coupled with the latest in laser technology to consistently deliver proven results. We also carry a variety of Obagi products in our office that include a wonderful Vitamin C line, facial cleansers, and exfoliators.
For your convenience, our Germantown office has extended hours, and we also offer FREE cosmetic consultations. Get in touch today to schedule an appointment or check out our products for Memphis skin care! Your skin will thank you, both now and in the future.