When you are in your 20s, you may be blissfully free of acne and not yet worried about wrinkles and age spots. While you likely have supple and youthful-looking skin now, the way you treat your skin can determine what it will look and feel like in the future. Conversely, you may be several years out of adolescence and still battling acne. Good skin care in your 20s can clear up blemishes and pave the way for you to age gracefully.
Step 1
Wash your face twice daily with a mild facial soap and warm water. Use a cleanser made for oily skin if you suffer from acne. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.
Step 2
Apply a lotion containing benzoyl peroxide if you are prone to acne, recommends TeensHealth from Nemours. If not, skip this step.
Step 3
Slather on a moisturizer containing an SPF of at least 15, suggests the American Academy of Dermatology. Using sunscreen in your 20s can prevent both skin cancer and wrinkles in your later years. If you tend to break out, look for a moisturizer formulated for oily skin that bears the term "non-comedogenic." This means that the product will not clog your pores and cause pimples.
Step 4
Eat foods rich in antioxidants for healthy skin. The Mayo Clinic states that certain foods seem to have a protective effect on skin. These include blueberries, spinach, carrots, apricots, tomatoes, legumes, nuts and fish.
Step 5
Don't use tanning beds. You may think you're getting that sun-kissed look without the risks, but tanning beds can damage the skin just like the real sun. The American Academy of Dermatology advises using self-tanning products instead.
Step 6
Check your skin at least yearly. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests looking over your entire body on your birthday to watch for signs of skin cancer, which include changes in moles or bleeding. If you find anything that concerns you, see a dermatologist promptly.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid touching or picking at your face, recommends TeensHealth from Nemours. Touching your face can spread oil and bacteria, leading to acne. Picking at acne lesions can cause an infection.
Things You'll Need
- Mild facial cleanser
- Benzoyl peroxide lotion (optional)
- Moisturizer containing sunscreen
- Foods rich in antioxidants
- Self-tanning product (optional)
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