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So SELF talked to three dermatologists to see what they recommend for their clients at every age.
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(Spoiler alert: Every one of them saidSPF is a daily requirementin every age group).
When youre living the #NoWorries life, its about minimalism.
And having great skin is more about how you live your life overall.
Photo by Constantin Renner / EyeEm
Your 20s are all about taking a preventative stancegood habits now mean better skin in the future.
Here’s how to start.
These active ingredients will help get rid ofacne-causing bacteriaand calm an oily, acne-prone complexion.
Photo by Jena Ardell
Try Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser ($7,ulta.com).
A SPF moisturizer:The foundation of any good skin-care routine is SPF.
Sinai Hospital in NYC, tells SELF.
Photo by Thanasis Zovoilis
They prevent UV light from penetrating skin and minimize free radical damage, which can cause premature aging.
And we know that UV rays are the culprit behind80 percent of the visible signs of aging.
Wearing SPF 30+ daily is also crucial to preventing skin cancer.
Photo by Kevin Clogstoun
We like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ulta Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 60 ($30,ulta.com).
An over-the-counter retinol:Youre probably thinking, Why do I need retinol if I dont have any wrinkles?
News flash: Collagen can start to break down as early as your mid-20s.
Retinoids not only stimulate collagen production, but they also help even out skin tone.
The production of collagen starts to decline, leading to thinner skin.
There is also diminished functioning of the sweat and oil glands, so our skin becomes drier.
In addition to the daily SPF, consider adding the following to your skin-care routine.
Deep within skins layers, the dermis loses support and skin becomes less bouncy, says Dr. Russak.
On the epidermis, the outermost surface layers, cellular renewal slows and discoloration and dullness appear.
Hormonal flare-ups andcystic, stress-related pimplescan be the norm for thirtysomethings, too.
An antioxidant serum:Antioxidants are a key addition to your beauty routine once you hit age 30.
Antioxidants act like fire extinguishers, says Dr. Zeichner.
They put out any fires because of UV rays because were not perfect at applying and reapplying sunscreen.
Serums with vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid can help repair the skin in the daytime.
A prescription retinol:Consider seeing your dermatologist for a prescription retinol 0.25 percent to use at night.
Related:Is Retinol Really the Best Antiaging Ingredient Out There?
Most women enter the perimenopause phase in their 40s (that’s the phase right before menopause begins).
This means the bodys hormonal makeup is in flux, which can also have an effect on the skin.
The collagen and elastin fibers break, thicken, stiffen, clump together, and lose their elasticity.
This results in wrinkles and aging lines, says Dr. Russak.
“Peptides tell your skin to do a specific job like to stimulate collagen, says Dr. Zeichner.
Look for an emollient formula that has antioxidants or retinol to see the best results.
Try dabbing on RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream ($23,drugstore.com) right after your nightly moisturizer.
As hormone levels drop, collagen production slows drastically, says Dr. Russak.
Moisturize well and hydrate continually to help skin retain its elasticity, bounce, and radiance.
Look for a cream or oil cleanser that will remove dirt without stripping skin of moisture.
Try Jason Naturals Gentle basics Facial Cleanser ($9,target.com).
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally derived ingredient that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
It is very light, thin, and usually is not sticky, says Dr. Russak.
You might also like: 7 Bad Beauty Habits to Stop Immediately
