Day 2. Skin care through the decades

What changes as you age.

DAY 2 OF 7 Skin Care Through the Decades In our teens and early 20s, many of us feel like our skin is invincible. Things like washing your face and putting on sunscreen daily might sound like suggestions, rather than rules. But even if you feel and look resilient day after day, skin damage is a cumulative process. Your skin keeps a score of all the sun exposure, cigarette smoke, alcohol, and so on. How do I change up my routine as I get older? You may be surprised to hear that most of the things you should do for your skin at 18 are the same things you should do at 78 (with a few important exceptions, which we'll go into later). Here's a basic overview of how to build a healthy aging skin care routine. And stay tuned, because on Day 7 we'll share a list of products that dermatologists stand by. Wear sunscreen every day: "I wish I wore less sunscreen when I was young," said no one ever. Research confirms that UV exposure significantly contributes to skin aging in lighter, medium, and darker skin tones. Use a topical antioxidant: Antioxidants like vitamin C and retinol can repair damaged skin cells and protect against future damage. However, you'll want to follow certain guidelines when using these ingredients (more on that later). Don't overexfoliate: Exfoliating properly can promote healthy aging by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. However, long-term overexfoliation can increase signs of aging by drying out skin cells and damaging the skin barrier. Keep your skin hydrated: Well-hydrated skin not only shows fewer signs of aging, but it can also improve your skin elasticity and slow the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. It's never too late to start If you weren't the most avid sunscreen-wearer as a younger person, honestly, that's pretty normal. So, don't get down on yourself. Use this challenge as an opportunity to commit — or re-commit — to caring for your skin. Today's challenge: Identify areas of your current skin health routine where you tend to drop the ball and work on improving them. Skin care consistency is essential for healthy, youthful-looking skin. That's all for today! Tomorrow, we'll dig into sun damage: what it is, how to prevent it, and how to repair what's already done. Take care, Healthline Read These Next Keep Your Skin Healthy at Any Age READ ON All About Your Skin Barrier and How to Protect It READ ON

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