Even if you still worry about the occasional breakout, it might be time to start thinking about wrinkles, too. Since signs of aging (like dark spots, fine lines, and loss of firmness) can appear as early as your 20s, we believe that it’s never too soon to start incorporating anti-aging products into your skincare routine.

But with so many products on the market promising to lift, firm, and smooth your skin, it’s easy to get lost in the cosmetics aisle. That’s why we created a simple guide to anti-aging skincare for beginners.

Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

UVA and UVB rays are one of the biggest factors that cause premature signs of aging in all skin types. The best thing you can do to protect your skin from them is to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every single day to keep your skin protected from potential sun damage.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is the first step to a preventative skincare routine: it gently removes dry, dead cells from the surface of your skin, revealing the brighter, youthful skin underneath. Regular exfoliation can also help reduce superficial sun damage and allow your anti-aging skin care products to penetrate deeper into the skin. We typically recommend a nightly retinol and  exfoliating cleansers with AHA acids. as part of your home routine. Procedures, such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels, are commonly utilized in-office exfoliating treatments.

Never Skip Moisturizer

Moisturizer makes a noticeable difference to the brightness and texture of your skin, which is why it should be the third most important product in your skincare routine (right after sunscreen and exfoliation). And we don’t just mean for your face – don’t forget about body lotion, too.

Invest in a Great Eye Cream

Whether or not eyes are really the windows to the soul, they can most certainly reveal your age. We like several different eye creams, each of which is best suited for a different sign of aging in the eye area, whether it be fine lines, dark circles, or puffiness. Depending on your skin type, most people are genetically programed to reveal their age with one of these issues more so than the others. We can help match you to your best eye cream.

Add an Antioxidant Serum.

Another major contributor to aging skin is free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules produced from external aggressors such as UV rays, smoke and pollution. These molecules can latch onto the skin and cause damage to cells in the form of fine lines and wrinkles. To get environmental protection from free radicals, try incorporating an antioxidant serum into your daily routine.

At the Dermatology Center of Acadiana, our mission is to provide patients with expert dermatologic care in a comfortable and welcoming office environment. Experience the difference that our skilled and friendly staff makes to your skincare experience and dermatological services when you schedule an appointment at 337-235-6886.