20+ skincare tips for women in their 20’s

Our 20s are the years to lock-in and establish a solid skincare routine. During this decade, we begin to lose 1% of collagen each year. All those nights of falling asleep with makeup on, picking and popping pimples, skipping proper hydration, and neglecting your skin barrier will eventually catch up—unless you change those habits now.

The menstrual cycle also plays a significant role in your skin health over time.

As your virtual esthetician, I want to share some habits and tips you can start incorporating into your routine. These practices are not only holistic but also incredibly beneficial for your menstrual and skin health.

• Daily Routine Essentials

  • Cleanse Twice a Day: Use a gentle cleanser in the morning and at night to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.

  • Moisturize Regularly: Hydrate your skin with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer suitable for your skin type.

  • Always Wear Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30 or higher every day, rain or shine, to protect against premature aging and UV damage.

  • Remove Makeup Before Bed: Never sleep with makeup on to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

  • Avoid Over-Exfoliating: Exfoliate 1-2 times per week with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant to avoid irritating your skin.

• Preventive Measures

  • Start Using an Eye Cream: Target dark circles, puffiness, or fine lines with a hydrating eye cream.

  • Incorporate Antioxidants: Use serums with vitamin C or E to protect your skin from free radical damage and brighten your complexion.

  • Don’t Skip Toner: Use an alcohol-free toner to balance your skin’s pH and prep it for other products.

  • Hydrate Inside Out: Drink plenty of water to maintain overall hydration and support your skin’s natural glow.

  • Get Enough Sleep: Prioritize 7-9 hours of sleep each night for optimal skin repair and renewal.

  • Focus on Hormonal Acne Zones: Understand facial mapping to treat common breakout areas (chin and jawline) associated with hormonal fluctuations.

  • Balance Oil Production: Use lightweight, mattifying products during ovulation when sebum production may peak.

• Hormonal and Acne Management

  • Monitor Hormonal Fluctuations: Adjust your skincare routine based on your menstrual cycle to address hormone-driven skin changes.

  • Spot Treat Acne: Use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide products to treat breakouts without over-drying your skin.

  • Avoid Picking at Pimples: Picking can lead to scarring and infections. Use a pimple patch if needed.

• Cycle-Specific Skincare Adjustments

  • Track Your Cycle: Use a period tracker to understand when your skin might become oilier (ovulation) or more sensitive (premenstrual).

  • Switch Products During Breakouts: Use salicylic acid or tea tree oil during your luteal phase to prevent and treat hormone-driven acne.

  • Hydrate During Menstruation: Hormonal dips during your period can cause dryness; add hyaluronic acid or heavier moisturizers to your routine.

  • Soothe Skin During Sensitivity: Opt for calming ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile when your skin feels inflamed or irritated.

  • Support Skin Barrier During PMS: Incorporate ceramides or niacinamide to strengthen your skin’s protective barrier.

• Healthy Lifestyle Choices

  • Eat Hormone-Friendly Foods: Include omega-3s, zinc, and magnesium-rich foods to help balance hormones and reduce breakouts.

  • Limit Sugar and Processed Foods: These can exacerbate hormonal fluctuations and increase the likelihood of acne.

  • Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness or yoga to lower cortisol levels, which can contribute to hormone-driven breakouts.

• Long-Term Planning

  • Start Retinoids Early: Use a gentle retinoid in your routine to combat early signs of aging and improve acne-prone skin.

  • Stay Consistent: Stick to your routine throughout all phases of your cycle, making minor adjustments as needed for hormonal changes.

  • Consult an Expert: Work with a dermatologist or esthetician to understand how your menstrual cycle impacts your skin and create a tailored regimen.

Are you ready to build the skin of your dreams and menstruate with ease?

I created a beginner’s friendly skin cycling cheat sheet. I encourage you to grab your FREE downloadable now and start your skin cycling journey! Learn the main theme’s of each phase and which aspect your skin you should prioritize during different phases of the month.

just click on the image (: