When I first entered my 20s, my biggest concern was obviously breaking out or having less than desirable skin when I went out. Celebrating my birthday this past weekend and continuing the journey through my (sigh) late 20s, I started considering the other skin care problem some of us are already dealing with, aging! I have been trying to be preventative for the past little while, dabbling here and there with my skin, but I know now is the time to nurture my complexion.
So when is a good time to start thinking about anti aging? Like many things, sooner rather than later. Research says we should start in our 20s. As early as 25, our skin’s two structural proteins, collagen (keeps your skin firm and plump) and elastin (which gives skin its flexibility) starts to decrease. The first signs of sun damage generally start showing up in your late 20s and early 30s, as your skin starts to weaken (brown spots, crow’s feet, laugh lines, dull skin, greeeeat). Another thing to think about, don't forget your neck! I know its not top of mind when applying your skincare products but extend the products down your neck to keep the skin there looking tight and firm.
What are some causes of premature wrinkles? Welp, here are some possible culprits:
Sleeping on your stomach
Eating too much sugar – poor skin nutrition and leads to pro-aging!
Not wearing sunscreen – did you know sun exposure accounts for up to 70% of the skin’s aging?!
Not drinking enough water – this can lead your skin to have a papery look and will make fine lines more apparent
Air pollution can cause premature aging for people who live in the city! Yikes!
Consuming a lot of alcohol…it dehydrates your skin!
Overusing skin care products
You are stressed beyond belief
You smoke or are exposed to smoke
Not sleeping enough
Squinting a lot or furrowing your brows
Here is a late 20’s skincare routine to help you get started with ingredients you should be on the look out for:
1. Cleanser: Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Tangerine Oil, Chamomile, Olive Leaf Extract You should buy: Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging Cleanser
2. Moisturizer: Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Zinc Oxide, Jojoba Oil
You should buy: Olay Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream
3. Anti-Aging Treatment: Tretinoin (Retinoid, Vitamin A), Vitamin C You should buy: Kate Somerville Dermal Quench Liquid Lift + Retinol
4. BHA or AHA Treatment: Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Beta Hydroxy Acid
You should buy: Cane + Austin Retexturizing Cream 5. Anti Aging Eye Cream: Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides
6. Antioxidant or Hydrating Serum: Hyaluronic acid, squalene, glycerin or vitamin E, Vitamin C, green tea
You should buy: Tata Harper Resurfacing Serum<--review on this coming soon!
7. Anti Aging Sunscreen: UVA/UBV, Zinc Oxide, titanium oxide, antioxidants
You should buy: Shiseido Sports BB Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Although I can do without the wrinkles, with age comes wisdom, so here’s to being a whole year wiser ;)
Nel xoxo
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