Health & beauty
Best New Beauty Gadgets (for Non-Nerds)
Skin care
The Best Skin Care Routine for Your Age
Still using that oil-free cleanser your mom gave you when you were 13? Then it's time to re-think how you treat your skin
If you're in your 20s ...
The issues you're most likely facing are acne and possibly some discoloration from sun damage. The most important thing to do is to keep your skin protected with sunscreen -- everyday. And "start protecting your neck, chest, and hands along with your face," says Waldorf.Your ideal regimen:
Step 1: Use a gentle foaming cleanser that will remove makeup and excess oil, but won't dry out your skin.
Step 2: For day, use a light moisturizer that contains sunscreen, and provides UVA and UVB protection. Look for a product that contains either zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, or Mexoryl.
Step 3: If you get mild breakouts (not serious acne -- your dermatologist should recommend the ideal treatment for that) use a spot treatment containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. And whatever you do, don't pick -- it can lead to long-lasting scars.
Step 4: If you are one to stay up all hours drinking, smoking, etc. you might want to kick start your anti-aging program now by applying a serum at night that contains Vitamin C. It'll help fight the free radical damage your lifestyle is causing.
Step 5: At night, choose a basic light moisturizer if you need it. "You don't want to play too much or you'll over do it and your skin will get out of wack," says Lorencin.
SEE NEXT PAGE: If you're in your 30s ...
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