Preventative Anti Aging: Do You Need It?
Hello, Beautiful Readers! Today I wanted to talk about something that has started to take the spotlight recently: preventative anti aging. It seems like everywhere I look, twenty-somethings are dipping their toes into the anti-aging pool, including undergoing Botox and filler procedures for a more ageless appearance. Which has begged the question: do we need preventative anti aging?
I started using eye creams when I was in my early twenties, and I can tell you right now that my 30-something self greatly thanks me for it! Indeed, I am an advocate of preventative anti aging. But hear me out here, because I am not telling you that you should book an appointment with your local plastic surgeon for some fillers. I am simply telling you that the best way to avoid fine lines and wrinkles is to prevent them. Of course, we are all going to age regardless. But if keeping your skin youthful, longer is a priority for you; you will definitely want to keep reading!
So what is a 20-Something to do?
If you do not have the desire to reach for preventative Botox, that is A-Okay! It is not a requirement for preventing aging; it is simply something many are experimenting with today. The key to prevention is actually persistence, so I want to share some of my favorite must-have tips for preventative anti aging in your 20’s, so you can look better in your 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, and beyond!
Essential #1: Cleanse, Cleanse, Cleanse – Of all of the age groups I work with, teens and early twenties seem to fall culprit to not cleansing their face as often as they should. It is easy to brush off as a “fluff” step, but let me tell you, it is absolutely essential. It helps to rid your skin of dirt, oil, and makeup (which, if left on, can age you and cause blemishes) while prepping your skin for better product absorption. It is essential that you get in the habit of cleansing both AM & PM. I am a firm believer in cleansing twice at night.
Essential #2: Find Yourself an Eye Cream – Your eyes can be much more than a window to the soul… They can be an indicator of your age. The skin around your eyes is much thinner and more delicate than the skin on the rest of your face, so it is crucial to give them a little extra love. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to eye creams. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and make sure you are buying the correct formula for your skin type (this applies to all areas of skin care, but is especially important when it comes to your eye cream).
Essential #3: Don’t Be Afraid to Peel – So many people are afraid of peels, and I don’t entirely blame them! There has been a picture painted that you will turn red and endure flakey skin before the beautiful skin is revealed. And while with some procedures, this is absolutely true; it absolutely does not apply to every peel product. Reach for formulas that help to exfoliate and brighten your skin for a quick pick-me-up. If you are nervous about any potential redness or peeling, do not be afraid to ask questions or consult an esthetician! But rest assured, many of the peels you can pick up for at-home use will not have this effect if used properly. You typically have to visit your esthetician or dermatologist for procedures that powerful (and the results are very often worth it!). A Great Option For At Home Use: HydroPeptide’s Anti-Wrinkle Polish & Plump Peel. This amazing duo allows you to instantly receive the benefits of microdermabrasion, a light peel, and more in just two steps, all from the comforts of home! Pro Tip: If you are still too anxious to use a product designated as a “peel”, try your hand at physical exfoliants (such as rice exfoliating powders). Again, following instructions is key here!
Essential #4: Don’t Discount the Power of Sunscreen – I cannot stress this enough, find a good sunscreen and wear it each and every day. I can’t tell you how many women I meet who say they wish they had worn more SPF in their 20’s, and with good reason! Unprotected exposure to UV rays can result in fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and skin cancer. Incorporating a sunscreen into you AM routine and being diligent about applying throughout the day is essential to anti-aging and overall skin health. The general rule of thumb for reapplication is every 2 hours. However, if this does not sound ideal for you, and you spend much of your time indoors throughout the day, 1-3 reapplications are better than none. Pro Tip: If you avoid sunscreen reapplication because you do not want to ruin your makeup, look towards powdered SPF brushes. I have talked about these so many times, because not only are they great for layering sunscreen over your makeup in a pinch, but they are easy to take on-the-go and even help to mop up excess oil on the face. Basically, they freshen you up while delivering SPF protection!
Essential #5: Stay On Top of Your Routine – They say it takes 21 days to make a habit, but unfortunately it can take far less time to break one. Taking time out of each day to care for your skin is a time investment, but I can assure you that when done properly, it is an investment that will be well worth it down the line. Other essentials include: finding a great serum/moisturizer, avoiding cigarette smoke whenever possible, staying healthy (this includes eating well, staying hydrated, and getting adequate exercise) and getting enough sleep each night. It really all boils down to living the healthiest lifestyle you can, while remembering to take care of your skin on a daily basis. Remember, it may take some time to get used to, but your future self will definitely thank you.