Discover the secrets to maintaining radiant, healthy skin at any age with our comprehensive guide. From protecting your skin as a young adult to nurturing mature skin as you age, we’re sharing dermatologist-approved skincare routines for each stage of life.
“It’s a myth that your skincare routine should have multiple steps and expensive products,” says Frank Morocco, DO, dermatologist at OhioHealth “Finding a routine you can maintain is what’s important. Having an adjustable plan that can be tailored to your needs will help you maintain your skin health through the decades.”
Through the ages
While age-specific skincare routines are a good way to keep your skin healthy and beautiful, Dr. Morocco says some universal skin care practices can improve your skin’s health and appearance in every age group.
Limit UV exposure
An estimated one in five people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. While people with a family history of skin cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease, for most people a few simple habits can help prevent it. While Dr. Morocco says that the best sunscreen is the one you will wear every day, he does favor mineral-based formulas. He also stresses that you should limit your time in the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and avoid tanning beds.
“Skin cancer is easy to detect and one of the few cancers we can easily prevent,” says Dr. Morocco. “Regularly wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) 30 or higher and reapplying it every two hours is a proven method to prevent skin cancer later in life, as well as premature aging.”
Diet and lifestyle
Your stress levels, how well you sleep and your diet can all impact your skin’s health and appearance. Eating foods that support your overall health, such as those included in a Mediterranean-style diet, is also good for your skin. Dr. Morocco says plenty of hydration is also key to optimal skin health.
In your teens and 20s
Developing a routine that is suited to your skin type is important during your teens and 20s. Dr. Morocco says that while it might be tempting to use harsh exfoliating scrubs and cleansers, a gentle face wash twice a day is all you need to remove makeup and excess oil. In addition to preventing breakouts, mild cleansing helps your skin retain the moisture it needs to stay healthy. During these decades you should also get into the habit of using a moisturizer with sunscreen daily to help prevent photoaging and skin cancer. Choosing products that are oil-free and labeled non-comedogenic is important to prevent clogged pores that can lead to acne.
Some professional treatments are suitable for young adults. Dr. Morocco says that mild chemical peels, microdermabrasion treatments and facials can promote skin cell turnover, reduce acne scaring and prevent acne breakouts.
In your 30s and 40s
Your 30s and 40s are when fine lines and wrinkles start to appear, as well as the effects of sun exposure from your teens and 20s. Dr. Morocco explains that it’s common to also notice a decrease in collagen production and pigment changes. In addition to using a gentle cleaner twice daily and a moisturizer with sunscreen, your 30s are a good time to start using an eye cream, as well as anti-aging retinols and serums that contain vitamins C and E. Products with hyaluronic acids can also help boost your skin’s elasticity, skin tone and moisture retention.
“A solid skincare routine in your 30s and 40s should focus on cleansing and moisturizing twice a day,” says Dr. Morocco. “Adding a vitamin C or antioxidant serum in the morning and a retinol in the evening should be all you really need.”
This is also the time to begin annual skin cancer screening with a board-certified dermatologist. Early detection can ensure skin cancer is caught at its most treatable stage.
At this age, fractional lasers, micro needling, Botox and dermal fillers are good options for people who want to address more advanced signs of aging, such as deeper wrinkles, melasma or a loss of skin volume.
In your 50s, 60s and beyond
In your golden years, you can expect to see increased dry skin on your face, as well as over the rest of your body. You’ll probably also notice more significant signs of aging. Dr. Morocco says that this is the time many people transition from thinner to thicker moisturizers. Your skin can become more sensitive as you age and unscented products are a good choice.
In addition to maintaining good skin care habits such as cleansing twice a day and using sunscreen, there are some options to boost hydration. Dr. Morocco says that products containing ceramides can help your skin cells retain more water, which provides a plumping effect. He adds that serums and moisturizers with peptides can also help to smooth lines.
“As we age, our skincare needs change. What worked in your 30s might not work in your 50s and you’ll need to adapt,” says Dr. Morocco. “There are many products out there with good science behind them. And your dermatologist is ready to help you maintain healthy beautiful skin.”
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