A Comprehensive Guide To Choosing Skincare In Your 20s

Taking care of yourself is crucial at any stage of life – but when it comes to your skin, prevention is undoubtedly better than cure – so establishing a solid skincare routine as early as possible is essential. And if you’re in your 20s, take note – as now’s the time to lay the foundation for healthy and vibrant skin in the coming years. 

Beauty Daily spoke to Clarins Retail Trainer Jason Roberts on exploring the unique skin characteristics in your 20s, how to identify your skin type, and his wisdom on essential skincare steps for glowing skin in your 20s and beyond. 

Understanding your skin in your 20s 

“Typically, in your 20s, skin will look healthy, glowing, and radiant, and this is to do with the fact that at this stage of life, collagen production is at an optimum level,” Roberts says. However, lifestyle factors can have a significant impact during this period. Adding: “Burning the candles at both ends and not taking the right amount of self-care and considering the importance of skincare essentials such as cleansing and SPF protection can lead to breakouts, dull skin, and ultimately premature ageing in the long run.” 

Read: How To Exfoliate Your Face Whatever Your Skin Type 

Identifying your skin type 

The importance of understanding your skin type cannot be overstated. “Selecting the correct products for your skin type will deliver the best possible results and be the most cost-effective,” Roberts advises. “Different skin types require tailored approaches. For example – typically, oily skin has a shine across the entire face and is prone to breakouts, so it requires products that specifically tackle this,” he adds. 

“Dry skin can be dull, flaky, and red. Combination skin is the most common type, noticeable due to a shiny T-zone and drier cheeks. Skin prone to sensitivity and irritation exhibits sensations of heat, tingling, itching, and visible signs of redness and possible breakouts.” 

Methods to determine your skin type 

To determine your skin type, Roberts suggests several methods. “The best way to determine your skin type is by touch. Feel your skin for any sticky areas, as this will be excess oil,” he says. “Look for how visible pores are and how dull or radiant the skin appears – additionally, seeking professional help, such as with a Clarins skin check, can provide a more comprehensive assessment of your skin type and related conditions like dehydration and premature ageing.” 

Essential skincare in your 20s 

“Your skin type is pretty much within your genes, and it’s with us for our entire lifetime. If you start off on the wrong path, this will lead you to select the wrong products, which could cause further issues,” He advises. 

Taking all of this invaluable advice into consideration, let’s explore the essential steps you should incorporate into your skincare routine during your 20s. 

Read: 9 Skincare Myths To Avoid, According To Experts 

Cleansing 

“When it comes to cleaning your skin, it’s more about your lifestyle and the specific products you use, such as makeup products and SPF,” explains Roberts. “Therefore, tailor your cleansing routine to ensure thorough cleansing. Look for gentle cleansers that effectively remove impurities without stripping the skin. The MyClarins range offers a simple, effective, and vegan-friendly selection of products, including cleansers, moisturisers, and the recharge sleep night mask, which is ideal for 20-somethings.” 

Toning 

Toning plays a crucial role in balancing the skin’s pH level. Roberts advises, “Look for toners with hyaluronic acid, witch hazel, or rosewater for added benefits.” Incorporating a suitable toner into your routine helps remove any remaining impurities and prepares the skin for better absorption of subsequent products. 

Try: Clarins Purifying Toning Lotion, £36, an alcohol-free formula that works to balance the skins natural flora for clear, radiant skin.

Serums 

“In your 20s, it’s important to integrate serums into your skincare routine,” says Roberts. “Serums are potent formulations that target specific skin concerns. Choose serums with key ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide (vitamin B3), and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients promote radiance, refine pores and skin texture, prevent imperfections and breakouts, and provide optimal hydration.” 

Read: Retinol serums: Which are the best and how do you use them? 

Moisturising 

Maintaining hydration is crucial for preventing dryness and promoting a healthy complexion. “Opt for lightweight moisturisers that suit your skin type,” advises Roberts. For enhanced hydration and a strengthened skin barrier, consider moisturisers containing ingredients like ceramides or niacinamide. Tailor your moisturiser choice to your specific needs. 

Eye care 

To prevent premature signs of ageing around the eyes, Roberts recommends using eye creams or serums. Look for products with ingredients like peptides or vitamin E. Gently apply them using your ring finger to avoid excessive pressure on the delicate eye area. 

Sun protection 

“The most sun damage to the skin takes place before the age of 21, so always consider protection and prevention,” highlights Roberts. “Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun.”  

Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas, like Clarins UV PLUS [5P] Anti-Pollution SPF 50 Translucent, £34, to ensure sun protection without clogging pores. 

Exfoliate 

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and promotes a smoother complexion. Roberts advises using physical exfoliants (gentle scrubs) or chemical exfoliants (products containing AHAs or BHAs) once a week. But – be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s natural balance. 

Masks and treatments 

Face masks and treatments are excellent add-ons to target specific skin concerns. Roberts suggests incorporating them into your weekly routine. “Look for masks and treatments that address hydration, brightening, or calming, depending on your needs,” he says. 

Key ingredients to look for 

Vitamin C  

A key skincare ingredient that promotes radiance and collagen production.  

Niacinamide (vitamin B3)  

Vitamin B3 is known to refine pores and skin texture.  

Salicylic acid  

One of the most popular ingredients for preventing and targeting imperfections and breakouts.  

Hyaluronic acid  

An ingredient that ensures optimal hydration for plump, radiant skin and prevents premature ageing. 

Try: Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Hydrating Multi-Protection Mist, £26, a hyaluronic acid-infused facial mist that instantly hydrates, protects and soothes lacklustre skin.

Skincare tips and advice for your 20s 

In addition to a consistent skincare routine, lifestyle factors play a significant role in maintaining healthy skin. Roberts emphasises the importance of a balanced diet, hydration, and sufficient sleep. He also suggests avoiding common skincare mistakes, such as harsh scrubbing, using products with irritants, and neglecting sun protection. 

In short? Understanding your skin type, establishing a suitable skincare routine, and incorporating key ingredients will help you achieve and maintain healthy, glowing skin throughout your 20s and beyond. Remember to embrace consistency, protect your skin from the sun, and nourish it with the right products. By taking action and investing in your skincare regime early, you’ll enjoy the benefits of youthful and radiant skin for years to come. 

Next read: Sustainable skincare to buy now