20’s
In your twenties your skin is in its prime. It glows without much effort, and you can still smile without wrinkles forming. Now is the time to really live with reckless abandon. Start by drinking an alarming amount of alcohol and smoke tons of cigarettes. Lay out in the sun until your skin resembles that of an over cooked microwave dinner. We’re kidding, but you would be surprised how many of us are guilty of treating our face like it’s a rental. Although you are not currently seeing any damage you might be causing to your beautiful skin, it’s happening, and many outside elements–stress and environment included–have the potential to add unwanted years to the aging process. Here’s how to prevent it:

1) Though you should not be slathering on $300 anti-aging moisturizers and getting Botox, you should be mindful of hydration—even if you have oily skin–and keeping your skin clean. Now is the time to start good skin habits.

2) Wash your face before you go to bed. Experiment with oil cleansers; they’re great for taking off makeup and don’t dry out your face.

3) Don’t exfoliate everyday unless you are seriously breaking out. Once a week is more then enough.

4) Wear a sunscreen.

5) If you are breaking out, take it easy on all of the harsh products, because some can cause over-drying. Try washing your face with a mild exfoliating cleanser at night and letting your skin dry for at least five minutes, then apply a topical acne treatment. Wait another five minutes, then apply a moisturizer. Yes, acne is upsetting and frustrating–it mocks you and begs you to poke and prod at it. But try not to touch it. When you touch a pimple then touch another part of your face, you are essentially causing bacteria to spread. So keep your hands off.

See the next page for product recommendations.