Six Skincare Tips I Wish I Knew In My 20s

We’ve all heard the phrase, “hindsight is 20/20.” If it were possible to go back in time, there are many things we’d probably do differently—and once you reach your late 30s or 40s, taking better care of your skin back in your 20s may be one of them. The good news is, it’s never too late to be proactive about the health of your skin and give its appearance a boost.

Tip #1: Get your daily dose of vitamin C

Pollution, UV rays and other environmental factors generate free radicals that can accelerate the development of visible signs of skin aging. Vitamin C (and a form called L-ascorbic acid in particular) has been scientifically proven to neutralize damaging free radicals while improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration.

SkinCeuticals product to try:C E Ferulic is an award-winning, dermatologist-recommended daily vitamin C serum that provides superior environmental protection as well as visible anti-aging benefits.

Tip #2: Over-moisturizing can do more harm than good

If you have dry skin, applying an extra-thick layer of moisturizer several times throughout the day isn’t going to help. In fact, over-moisturizing can actually make dryness worse by impeding the skin’s production of its naturally hydrating oils. The key for soothing and smoothing dry skin is using an effective moisturizer formulation twice a day—and with the proper product, you only need a small amount.

SkinCeuticals product to try:Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is formulated with the optimal ratio of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids to replenish moisture, reinforce the skin’s barrier and promote natural self-repair.

Tip #3: Hydration doesn’t always come in a cream

If your skin still feels dry after moisturizing properly, turn to your other skincare steps for extra hydration. Nourishing cream-based cleansers, moisture-packed serums and hydrating sunscreen formulations can be effective ways to supplement skin moisture levels.

SkinCeuticals product to try: For drier skin in need of extra moisture, layer Hydrating B5 Gel under moisturizer. Those with oily skin may find this lightweight, oil-free serum provides just the right amount of hydration on its own.

Tip #4: Reapply SPF every two hours

The directions on every bottle of sunscreen include reapplying every two hours. Why? Because the active ingredients that provide UV protection begin to break down as they do their job. This means you likely need to touch up your sunscreen mid-morning and mid-afternoon for optimal protection against the sun’s rays throughout the day. And remember that UV rays can penetrate glass (as well as clouds on an overcast day), so be sure to screen up before you buckle up in the car.

SkinCeuticals product to try: Appropriate for all skin types, Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection in a lightweight, 100%-mineral, tinted fluid formula. Its translucent color spheres instantly enhance most skin tones without leaving a white cast, and the natural-looking radiant finish is perfect for a no-makeup look.

Tip #5: Double-cleanse at night

At the end of the day, it’s important to start your evening skincare regimen with a clean slate. You want to make sure your skin is free of sunscreen (especially if you use a water-resistant formula) and every last trace of make-up (particularly if long-wear foundation is your go-to). This is where double-cleansing comes in—and the extra step can provide additional skin benefits. In general, a foaming cleanser that helps dissolve lingering residue from the day is the ideal first step. From there, a second pass with a hydrating or calming cleanser can ensure a deep-down clean while meeting your skin’s unique needs.

SkinCeuticals products to try:Purifying Cleanser kicks off your double-cleanse with a mild yet effective formula that simultaneously conditions, softens and smooths the skin. As an added bonus, glycolic acid delivers a light exfoliating boost. For those with sensitive skin, Gentle Cleanser is a cream cleanser suitable for sensitive or traumatized skin that removes excess oils and debris, while calming and comforting the skin.

Tip #6: Don’t forget to exfoliate

The buildup of dead skin cells can lead to a dull complexion as well as clogged pores—but it’s easy to pave the way for more radiant, healthy-looking skin. In addition to occasional scrubs and masks, daily-use cleansers, toners, serums and moisturizers that are formulated with exfoliating ingredients can go a long way for smoothing and clarifying the complexion without an extra skincare step.

SkinCeuticals product to try: If streamlining your skincare routine is primary goal, Retexturizing Activator is an oil-free serum that simultaneously exfoliates and hydrates all skin types in one simple step—and it’s safe for twice-daily use.