Your skin in your 20s is usually firm and resilient, but it’s also the decade when the first signs of aging and damage from external aggressors like pollution and UV rays can start to surface. By developing a proper skin routine for women, you’re essentially setting up a protective barrier that maintains your skin’s health for the long term.
Morning Skincare Routine: Protect and Hydrate
Your morning routine should focus on cleansing away any excess oil from the night and protecting your skin from environmental factors like pollution and UV rays.
Step 1: Cleanser
Purpose: The first step in any routine is to cleanse your skin. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities that accumulate overnight. It also preps your skin to better absorb the products you’ll apply next.
Recommended Product: Plum Saffron & Papaya Face Wash
Step 2: Toner
Purpose: Toners help to balance the skin’s pH levels after cleansing, and they also remove any leftover impurities or makeup. A good toner hydrates and refreshes your skin, leaving it prepped for further products.
Recommended Product: Pilgrim Squalane Alcohol-Free Hydrating Face Toner & Mist
Step 3: Serum
Purpose: Serums are highly concentrated treatments that address specific concerns, like dullness, fine lines, or dehydration. In your 20s, a Vitamin C serum is particularly beneficial as it brightens your skin and protects against free radical damage.
Recommended Product: The Derma Co. 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum
Step 4: Eye Cream
Purpose: The skin around your eyes is thinner and more prone to dryness and fine lines. Eye cream is crucial in your morning routine as it hydrates, brightens, and protects the delicate under-eye area, keeping puffiness and dark circles at bay.
Recommended Product: TNW – The Natural Wash Under Eye Cream With Cooling Massage Roller
Step 5: Moisturiser
Purpose:
Moisturiser seals in hydration and provides a layer of protection for your skin. Even if you have oily skin, moisturising is key to maintaining balanced hydration without overproducing oil. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser.
Recommended Product: Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Moisturizer
Step 6: Sunscreen
Purpose:
Sunscreen is a must every single day. It shields your skin from harmful UV rays, which are responsible for 90% of skin ageing, including wrinkles, sunspots, and even skin cancer. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Recommended Product: Aqualogica Radiance+ Dewy Sunscreen
Weekly Add-ons for Extra Care
Face Masks (Once a Week)
Face masks provide an extra boost of hydration or treatment depending on your skin’s needs. Hydrating masks can lock in moisture, while clay masks help with oil control and deep cleansing. Incorporating a mask once a week can elevate your skincare routine.
Recommended Product: mCaffeine Naked & Raw Coffee Face Mask
Face Oils
Face oils, like argan or rosehip oil, are ideal for sealing in moisture and providing extra nourishment, especially during winter or for those with dry skin. They help restore the skin’s natural barrier, ensuring your skin stays hydrated and protected.
Recommended Product: Natural Vibes Ayurvedic Beauty Oil With 24K Gold Face Oil
Final Thoughts: Building a Skincare Routine That Works for You
Your 20s are the ideal time to start a daily skincare routine that promotes long-term skin health. Whether your goal is clear skin or preventing premature aging, these morning and night skincare steps will give your skin the care it needs.
