How to get better skin as a 22-years-old? (photo)

It's great that you're thinking about your skin health at 22! Establishing a good skincare routine now can set you up for healthy skin in the future. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to get better skin:

1. Establish a Consistent Skincare Routine:

Cleanse: Wash your face gently twice a day (morning and night) to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Choose a cleanser suitable for your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive).  
Exfoliate: Exfoliate 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten your complexion. Use a gentle physical exfoliant (like a scrub with smooth, small particles) or a chemical exfoliant (like AHAs or BHAs).
Treat: Address specific skin concerns with serums. Common concerns at this age include acne, hyperpigmentation, and early signs of aging. Look for serums containing ingredients like:
Vitamin C: For brightening and antioxidant protection.  
Hyaluronic Acid: For hydration.
Niacinamide: To help with redness, pore appearance, and overall skin tone.  
Salicylic Acid (BHA): To unclog pores and treat acne.  
 
Moisturize: Even oily skin needs a moisturizer to keep the skin barrier healthy and prevent dehydration. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula.  
Protect (SPF): This is the most crucial step for preventing premature aging, sun damage, and skin cancer. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days.  
2. Understand Your Skin Type and Concerns:

Identify your skin type: Observe how your skin behaves throughout the day. Is it oily all over, dry and flaky, a combination of both, or generally balanced?
Address your primary concerns: Are you dealing with acne, occasional breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, redness, dryness, or are you looking to prevent future issues? Tailor your products and routine to these concerns.
3. Lifestyle Factors:

Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.  
Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can contribute to healthy skin. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive dairy, which can sometimes trigger breakouts in some individuals.  
Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. During sleep, your skin repairs and regenerates.  
Stress Management: High stress levels can exacerbate skin problems like acne and eczema. Practice stress-reducing activities like exercise, yoga, or meditation.  
Avoid Smoking: Smoking significantly contributes to premature aging and wrinkles.  
4. Gentle Practices:

Avoid Over-Washing: Cleansing too frequently can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.  
Use Lukewarm Water: Hot water can also dry out your skin.  
Pat Dry: Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing.
Be Mindful of Makeup: Choose non-comedogenic makeup and always remove it thoroughly before bed. Clean your makeup brushes regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
5. When to Seek Professional Help:

If you have persistent or severe skin concerns like cystic acne, eczema, rosacea, or any condition that doesn't improve with over-the-counter products, consult a dermatologist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend prescription treatments or in-office procedures.
Key Things to Remember for Your Age:

Prevention is key: Focus on establishing healthy habits and protecting your skin from sun damage.  
Keep it simple: You don't need an elaborate routine with many steps. Focus on the basics and address specific concerns as needed.
Listen to your skin: Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and adjust your routine accordingly.
Be patient: It takes time to see results from a new skincare routine. Be consistent and give products at least a few weeks to work.
By following these tips, you can work towards achieving healthier, clearer, and more radiant skin at 22 and for years to come.


Sources and related content

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin - Winnetka & Chicago. This is a great question. At 22, focusing on skin health and addressing concerns like redness and large pores is a smart approach to maintaining a youthful, glowing complexion. One of the most effective treatments for both of these issues is the CO2 resurfacing laser. This laser works by using fractional technology, which delivers precise beams of light that penetrate the skin’s surface to remove damaged layers and stimulate the production of new, healthy skin. For redness, which is often caused by skin inflammation or visible blood vessels, the CO2 laser helps to reduce irritation and promote an even skin tone. The treatment can also significantly improve skin texture and shrink enlarged pores by boosting collagen and elastin production, which helps the skin tighten and firm over time. Although CO2 resurfacing can require some downtime, the results are typically long-lasting, providing smoother, clearer, and more evenly toned skin. I hope this helps and best of luck!

It's difficult trying to guess on your own what the issues are with the skin and how to find the right balance. The best advice is to begin by visiting an experienced aesthetician in your area. A full skin analysis can be performed and a cutomized skin care routine can be established using medical grade skin care products. Treatments to address specific concerns can be discussed as well as maintenance treatments once you get your skin balanced and healthy.