In your 20’s you could easily get away with falling asleep with a face full of makeup or spending the day at the beach sans sunscreen. Unfortunately, at some point we all must begrudgingly bid adieu to that decade of our lives. In your 30’s, you’ll most likely start to see noticeable signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. This is the perfect time to revamp your skin-care routine to help slow the signs of aging. Here is what you need to know about skin-care in your 30’s:
Exfoliation is Essential
Beginning in your 30’s, cell turnover and metabolism start to slow down, causing your skin to look dull and aged. Fret not, my dears. The answer to this worrisome dilemma is simple: just exfoliate! Topical exfoliation (such as a scrub) helps stimulate cell turnover by sloughing away dead skin cells. Many aestheticians also recommend that in addition to topical exfoliation, exfoliate at a deeper level once you hit the big 3-0. This can be done by using an exfoliating acid (such as glycolic, lactic or salicylic) every other night, which can help dissolve pigmented cells, purify large pores and keep the skin looking smooth and radiant. There are some great natural exfoliating acid products out there, but if you want to keep it super natural (and simple) try using apple cider vinegar or plain yogurt. Simply slather either one on your face and rinse off after 10 minutes.
Use a Gentle Cleanser
Keeping your skin hydrated is important at any age, but it’s especially important after you hit 30. This is because as you age your skin gets drier, thinner and more sensitive. In order to avoid stripping any much-needed moisture from your skin, make sure your cleanser is gentle, natural and sulfate-free.
Feed Your Skin- Inside and Out!
Vitamins, such as A, C and E, and antioxidants can help neutralize free radicals created by sun exposure, environmental pollutants, eating unhealthy or non-organic foods, drinking alcohol and stress. These vitamins and minerals can be obtained by consuming antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, dark leafy greens, avocados, goji berries and citrus fruits. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants will help protect your cells and nourish your skin from the inside out. To nourish your skin from the outside, you can apply these nutrients topically in the form of cleansers, creams, serums and toners. When buying facial products look for ones that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Sunscreen is a MUST
Unprotected exposure to the sun is the #1 cause of premature aging. Many twenty-somethings skip sunscreen in favor of getting a golden glow. While that may seem harmless in your 20’s, it can really make a visible difference in your 30’s. If you haven’t been religious about wearing SPF daily, now is the time to start. Look for a natural, lightweight formula containing zinc oxide (we love Badger Balm’s new line of sunscreens) and wear it every single day- rain or shine! This alone will dramatically slow down the aging process of your skin.
Get a Good Eye Cream
Most people start to show signs of aging around their eyes between the ages of 28-32, which makes your 30’s the perfect time to add a quality eye cream to your beauty arsenal. Look for an antioxidant rich formula that contains peptides, which help combat dryness and fatigue, fill lines and return cellular activity to its youthful state.
Minimize Stress
If you are in a state of chronic stress (i.e. You are constantly frazzled, stressed out, rushed or overwhelmed), your inner environment is most likely being bathed in stress hormones, which can cause oxidative damage to your cells. And what does oxidative damage lead to? Wrinkles, acne breakouts, sagging skin, skin rashes and inflammation. Basically, everything you are trying to avoid! Stress itself cannot always be avoided, but it can be minimized and/or alleviated. In order to minimize stress, avoid overbooking yourself or taking on too many projects at once. As for alleviating stress, we recommend catching a yoga class, practicing deep belly breathing, taking a warm bath, listening to music, taking a nap or getting support from a friend.
Not 30? Check out our skincare tips for Radiant Skin in Your 20's and 40's and 50's!
