Skin-Care Products Every Woman Should Use Before She Turns 30

 

By Aditi Rana

 

What is it about hitting the big 3-0 that suddenly makes us skincare fanatics for our 20s? Yeah, we start freaking out over every little zit and barely-there wrinkle, but is it just in our heads, or does our skin actually start changing the moment we hit our thirties?

 

Vitamin C Serum

Adding a vitamin C serum full of antioxidants to your routine is a game-changer for that extra sun protection. Sunscreen alone isn’t a total shield—UV rays still get through. That’s why it’s great to have something underneath your SPF to zap those free radicals and boost collagen production. Some sunscreens say they have antioxidants, but there’s no proof they pack enough to really protect you. So, it’s best to use a separate serum for that extra layer of defence.

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Daily Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must-have every single day. With so many options out there, go for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—they give a smooth finish and help prevent breakouts, which is perfect for those in their 20s. If you’re out and about, reapply your SPF every one to two hours. But if you’re mostly indoors, once in the morning should do the trick.

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Retinol Treatment

Retinoids might not be the flashiest, but they’re still the gold standard. They’re proven to boost collagen, tackle photoaging, and improve skin. Choose a gentle, over-the-counter retinol that’s not too harsh or exfoliating, and start using it every other night. To make it easier on your skin, mix it with a bit of moisturizer. Ideally, you should start in your late 20s and gradually build up to prescription-strength retinol by your 30s or 40s.

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Eye Cream

The skin around our eyes is super thin and often the first place to show signs of aging. Starting an eye cream early is a game-changer—it not only helps prevent wrinkles but also keeps the skin hydrated and plumped. Even if you’re wrinkle-free now, it’s like setting up future you for success. Mix it up by using different creams with various active ingredients. Start with one that has a bit of retinol to boost collagen, and then switch to a hydrating formula with hyaluronic acid once you’re done. Your future self will thank you!

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Exfoliating Treatment

By your late 20s, you might start noticing early signs of sun damage or smoking, and it could be time to step up your game. There are some awesome acids you can use at home once a week or every other week to give your skin a serious refresh. Just remember, there’s a bit of a learning curve—make sure to moisturize and use a gentle cleanser to keep your skin from getting too stripped. It’s all about balance.

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