5 Things I Wish I Had Done Differently for My Skin

Some people do not take care of their skin because they do not see the need to do so. Until the day they start seeing skin problems occur. Here's a short list of what we could do for our skin to age gracefully.

Life may make us busy to notice the little things that change every day until you get a breather. You look in the mirror and see the lines that weren’t there before. Some people do not take care of their skin because they do not see the need to do so until the day they start seeing skin problems occur.

When you are in your late 20s or early 30s you feel you’ve aged so much. Don’t you wish you can reverse the clock and prevent those fine lines and signs of premature skin aging?

We are all for aging beautifully, but when you see wrinkles and age spots early on, don’t you want to cry? Despite the endless options and anti-aging products available in the market, you can’t help but think “Where did I go wrong?”

Here are the things our younger selves have neglected and wish we could change:

Neglecting sunscreen

We need to apply sunscreen daily, even on overcast days. Our younger selves would not have understood the importance of using sunscreen daily. We thought sunscreen is only needed if we spend time under the sun.

Sunscreens block harmful rays from the sun that causes premature aging. Even if you do not see obvious signs of damage, your skin undergoes physiologic changes that are difficult to reverse. Watch this video to see evidence of sun damage.

Not drinking enough water

Some people are not keen on drinking plenty of water. Most preferred sodas or sugar-infused drinks rather than plain, tasteless, and boring water.

55-65% of our body is made up of water. We need to replenish this to maintain bodily processes. Proper hydration not only aids in nutrient absorption but makes our skin well hydrated and glow as well.

Poor nutrition

Eating fruits and veggies may not be as fun as digging into fries and other sugary comfort foods but knowing the benefits will make you think twice.

Fruits and vegetables are known as “Glow foods” because they are packed with nutrients that make our skin glow. Not only that, but they also boost our immune system so we can fight common diseases.

“Grow Foods” include meats and proteins and we should also incorporate these into our diet so we can repair tissues and muscles.

“Go Foods” are those rich in carbohydrates that give us the energy to complete our activities of daily living. We need to remember that we have to eat in moderation and that we should strive to have a balanced diet.

Drinking (alcohol) and smoking

Alcohol consumption and smoking make our skin look tired and old. Both also dehydrate our skin. Those who smoke tend to see signs of aging earlier than those who do not. This is particularly obvious around the lips.

If you can't forego alcohol, consume dry red wine instead to have beneficial cardiovascular effects.

Neglecting proper skin care

This is perhaps the most important thing you need to do for your skin. And you have to start early in doing so. It's not just about "looking good" but also feeling good.

Our skin plays a huge role in our confidence to face the world. Those who are suffering from acne would know. Having acne and acne scars are confidence-busters and have a negative psychological effect on people. The same is true with signs of aging. Although having wrinkles is inevitable, having them early is a bummer.

So how do we prevent these skin problems? We need to establish a skincare routine early on!

The key to having great skin is taking care of it. There are plenty of skincare products that could help keep your skin in tip-top shape. You just need to figure out which is best for you.

We all have different skin so we need to use products that are beneficial to our own skin type. Just because a certain product has gone viral on TikTok doesn't mean it could work wonders for you.

Remember, we have different skin types and skin issues, you just need to find that gem that can help you reveal your best skin.

An ideal skincare routine should be simple.

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
Apply a face serum fit for your skin needs.
We need to moisturize daily to keep our skin well hydrated.
Again, we need to use sunscreen because the sun can cause premature aging.

We also need to exfoliate a few times a week to keep dead skin from dulling our complexion. Do not over-exfoliate and compromise your skin barrier! If you are using a retinol, avoid other forms of exfoliation.

You may also invest in a red light therapy device to heal your skin from the inside out.

The Power of a Tailored Skincare Routine

It’s not enough to follow just any routine; tailoring your skincare to your specific needs is crucial. This starts with selecting the right face wash for your skin type. For dry skin, opt for a gentle gel or cream-based cleanser that hydrates as it cleanses, leaving your skin feeling soft. If your skin is oily, a salicylic acid-infused facial cleanser will help reduce excess oil and clear out your pores.

Once your skin is clean, it’s time for a toner. Toners can help balance the skin's pH, shrink the appearance of pores, and prep your skin for the next steps. Look for a toner enriched with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid to brighten and infuse the skin with moisture. Toners are essential, especially for those struggling with uneven tone or redness.

The Importance of Moisturizing

One of the most common mistakes in skincare is skipping the moisturizer, especially for those with oily skin. However, moisturizing is essential for all skin types. For plump skin and a radiant glow, choose a face moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid, which helps the skin retain moisture throughout the day. If you're looking for something lightweight and non-greasy, a gel moisturizer can be the perfect option. Don't forget to use a moisturizer for men that addresses specific skin concerns like irritation after shaving.

In the evening, switch to a more nourishing product like a night cream to help the skin regenerate overnight. An overnight mask can also lock in moisture, ensuring you wake up with radiant skin. Incorporating a moisturizer specifically for the eye area can help reduce dark circles and fine lines, which are among the first signs of aging.

Don’t Forget the Body

While many focus on their facial skincare routine, body care is just as important. Invest in a high-quality body lotion that nourishes and hydrates the skin. Ingredients like collagen, alga extract, and vitamin B5 can help strengthen the skin’s elasticity, making it appear firm and youthful. If you have sensitive skin, opt for a fragrance-free lotion to avoid irritation.

After showering, a body wash that contains glycolic acid or mineral-rich ingredients will gently exfoliate and smooth your skin, revealing a healthier glow. For those who prefer vegan or cruelty-free options, many brands now offer high-performance, ethical products that are perfect for achieving soft skin without compromising on values.

Advanced Skincare for a Radiant Complexion

For those looking to enhance their skincare routine, advanced treatments like red light therapy and clinical-grade anti-aging creams can take your regimen to the next level. These treatments work on a deeper level to stimulate collagen production and reduce fine lines. Additionally, incorporating a vitamin C serum into your morning routine will protect your skin from environmental stressors, thanks to its potent antioxidant properties.

For smoother, more even skin, consider adding a gentle scrub or exfoliating mask with glycolic acid once or twice a week. This helps to slough off dead skin cells, encouraging the growth of new, radiant skin. Just be sure not to overdo it, as over-exfoliation can lead to irritation and compromise the skin’s natural barrier.

Shop Skincare that Works for You

Finding the right products can be overwhelming, but focusing on your specific needs will simplify the process. Whether you're looking for a 24-hour skin moisturizer or an ultra-nourishing night cream, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs. Consider subscribing to a skincare subscription service that delivers best-selling and brand-new products to your doorstep, giving you the chance to try new formulas without the guesswork.

Don’t forget to browse through options that cater to both men’s and women’s skincare needs. This ensures that you’re using products designed with your specific concerns in mind, whether it's acne, anti-aging, or simply maintaining healthy skin.