Your 20s are the perfect time to begin the wrinkle prevention process. The key to tackling the pesky lines is to remember that prevention is easier than correction. One of the main causes of wrinkles is overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Although the heat wave temperatures have come to an end, you’ll still need to keep your sunscreen on deck. Dr. Debra Jaliman, author of Skin Rules, recommends that you apply a sunscreen with retinol even on gloomy days. “The SPF and retinol work together to prevent the breakdown of the skin’s tissue while also fighting constant exposure to damaging UV rays,” she says.
In addition to fine lines and wrinkles becoming more prominent, discoloration becomes a problem for many women in their 30’s. Pigmentation irregularities show up in the form of age spots, melasma, and acne scaring.
If you moisturized with a lotion this summer, get rid of it. Opt for a corrective cream based formula; it packs extra humectants that give skin an extra dose of hydration. Dr. Ted Lain, Austin based board-certified dermatologist, suggests avoiding products in pumps and instead reaching for containers. Cream products are oil-based and contain humectants, which lock-in moisture, while lotions are usually water based.
During this decade the skin’s tone and texture begin to breakdown. Your skin should be exfoliated more often in the fall to allow other products to fully penetrate the skin. Stronger treatments and dermatological procedures, such as laser and glycolic peels are more effective in evening out the skin’s texture. Manual exfoliants (scrubs with beads or grit) can be too harsh on skin during cooler temperatures and should be left behind in the summer. A chemical exfoliant (cleanser with lactic and glycolic acids) is the perfect option for those who do not have sensitive skin. According to Dr. Lain, these are gentle and glide on more evenly across the skin.
Hormonal imbalances can result in a loss of skin’s elasticity and volume. Growth factors should be introduced into your routine to increase the skin’s collagen. In order to get that summer time glow and plump up skin’s volume you’ll need to pump up your vitamin C intake this fall. Dr. Harold Lancer, dermatologist to the stars, says, “The body cannot produce collagen without vitamin C.” Look for products with ascorbic acid in the ingredients to give your skin a youthful appearance throughout the season.
