I’m a recent member of the 20-somethings club (it’s only been a little over a month or so). People say you’re at your prime, my co-workers tell me to take full advantage of my youth, and I not-so-secretly wish I was older. Go figure. But it’s not like I don’t enjoy being in my twenties: I’ve shed the dreadful –teens suffix, for one, and it comes with perks of good skin.

Here’s the thing: any breakouts have become an occasional, if rare, thing; they're carried over from hormonal fluctuations of the teen years. As a whole, however, 20-something skin is young and glowy and fabulous. It’s at its best: skin cells are regenerating at their optimum, cell turnover is at its prime (hence the naturally dewy complexion), and collagen and elastin levels are high (here’s to youth!). Cherish it, they all say. I do.

What you once needed isn’t so much relevant anymore – and what’s marketed at you is, well, what exactly? There’s anti-acne for teens, then a jump straight to intensive anti-aging. Where is it that the 20-something fits in?

What do you need?

Moisturizer (with SPF protection) used in the morning and evening is essential to preventing oil glands from going into overproduction in trying to compensate hydration. Always bring any remaining lotion to your neck area as well.

Deep clean regularly. Your main concern is most likely congestion and blackheads. Target those clogged pores with our Glycolic Foaming Cleanser and one of our Cleansing Tonic Masks. Help control oil by toning twice daily after cleansing the skin; toners like our Cucumber Cleansing Lotion help with T-zone shine and refreshing the pores.

Start preventing, now. There’s no harm in being a step ahead; our Vitamin C Serum is the perfect starting point for an anti-aging treatment that also tones and brightens complexions. While serums are optional (but highly recommended), eye cream is an essential. Mario Badescu once said:

“Every man or woman over the age of 21 should apply an eye cream in the morning and in the evening, as part of the daily routine. There are no exceptions.”

Take it to heart. The eye area is delicate and requires moisture; start with a lighter formulation like the Hyaluronic Eye Cream before upgrading to something richer in a few years.

Last but not least, always, always apply SPF whenever, wherever. SPF protection is the best preventive measure against signs of aging. Tanned skin may be in right now, but sun damage isn’t and never will be. If you must, see it to believe it. Never underestimate the power or the benefits of regularly using products with SPF protection: it’s always worth it in the end.

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