5 Visible Signs Of Aging That Can Occur As Early As Your 20’s

Starting about age 25, the first signs of aging start to surface on the skin. This usually occurs on the forehead or between the brows first. While everyone has wrinkles when they have facial expressions, everyone is different when it comes to the wrinkles that are visible when we are not making expressions (static wrinkles).  I think it is important to practice preventative skin care starting in our 20’s.

So what is preventative skin care and who should be doing it? Preventative skin care is just like it sounds. It is skin care directed at preventing common skin care complaints. I recommend it for all skin types and all ages.

1. Hyperpigmentation

A sure sign of premature aging is the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone and sun spots on the skin. This can occur as early as your early 20’s due to environmental UV damage and persistent sun exposure. To prevent and correct this common issue, wear SPF 30+ every single day and wear a hat, use an umbrella or stand in the shade when outdoors.

2. Dry and dull skin

Dry and dull skin that feels itchy and is easily irritated is actually the second most common visible sign of premature aging. This appearance is usually caused by environmental factors, stress, poor hydration, and bad nutrition. keep your skin super hydrated with a hyaluronic acid moisturizer and eat foods with lots on antioxidants such as berries and green leafy vegetables.

3. Fine lines and wrinkles

If you have static lines in your 20’s or deep wrinkles by you early 30’s these are signs of premature aging. I recommend a retinol serum and vitamin C serum. These help “plum up” fine lines and wrinkles and work very well together in your routine.

4. Sensitivity

I usually begin to see this in my patients in their early 20’s who have lack of sleep, smoke, and have very stressful lives. These lifestyle choices can negatively impact the immune system and increase production of axing oxidative radicals. This can make your skin have a leathery appearance and make those dreaded dark eye circles appear.

5. Start now.

It is never too early (or two late) to have an improved, purposeful skin care routine. I counsel my patients as young as their late teens and well into their 60’s about preventative skin care.