Navigating the vast world of skincare can be overwhelming, especially with the myriad of products promising everything from youthful radiance to blemish-free complexions. One of the most common questions that arise is: "When is the right time to start using specific skincare products?" Whether you're a teenager dealing with acne, in your twenties and looking to preserve your youthful glow, or in your thirties and beyond focusing on anti-aging strategies, understanding the appropriate age to introduce certain skincare products can make a significant difference in achieving optimal results. In this post, we'll breakdown when to start using a variety of popular products as well as share our recommendations for products to use.
Products you should start using NOW: (any age)
Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a non-negotiable in any skincare routine, providing essential protection against harmful UV rays, preventing premature aging, and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Start using sunscreen as early as possible, regardless of age, to maintain healthy, youthful skin. Here you can find more information about SPF, and what products we recommend.
Moisturizer: A good moisturizer helps maintain skin hydration, prevents dryness, and supports the skin barrier function. It's vital to incorporate a moisturizer into your routine from a young age to ensure your skin stays soft, supple, and resilient. We recommend Restore Intensive Night Cream because it is lightweight, and non-comedogenic, and contains peptides, niacinamide and cucumber extract that work to calm and nourish your skin barrier. It also contains natural retinol alternative bakuchiol which works to correct fine lines and wrinkles.
Cleanser: Cleansing is fundamental for removing dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin. Using a gentle cleanser appropriate for your skin type should start as early as possible to maintain a clear and healthy complexion. For acne-prone, oily or teen skin, we recommend Refresh Gel Cleanser, as it contains menthol and white willow bark extract to help calm inflammation and tea tree oil to balance sebum production and pH levels. For normal or dry skin, we recommend Ritual Foaming Milk Cleanser for a gentle foaming cleanse that balances plant-based amino acids with antioxidant rich fruit extracts to leave your skin thoroughly cleansed without drying and stripping your skin’s natural moisture.
Eye Cream: The skin around the eyes is delicate and prone to early signs of aging, such as fine lines and puffiness. Starting an eye cream like Refine Eye Serum early can help keep this area hydrated, reduce dark circles, and prevent premature aging. Ours contains high-performance ingredients like bakuchiol, caffiene, green tea and more to hydrate, minimize fine lines, aid in depuffing and firming the skin around the eyes. When to start using this product is entirely up to your preference.
Products you should start using in your early 20's:
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin, evens out skin tone, and protects against environmental damage. Introducing a Vitamin C serum in your early 20's can help maintain a radiant complexion and prevent early signs of aging. We recommend our Glow Vitamin C Serum because it is unlike others on the market in the best way - learn more about why here.
Products you should start using in your late 20's / early 30's:
Retinol: Retinol is renowned for its anti-aging benefits, including boosting collagen production, reducing fine lines, and improving skin texture. Starting retinol in your late 20's to early 30's can help combat early signs of aging and keep your skin looking youthful and smooth. For acne-prone skin, we recommend Differin Gel, and for normal to dry skin, we recommend Tru Alchemy Retinol Reset.
Products you should start using in your 30's:
Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells, enhances cell turnover, and reveals a brighter, more even complexion. Incorporating exfoliation into your skincare routine in your 30's can help address skin dullness, uneven texture, and promote a more vibrant appearance. We use our Resurfacing Enzyme Mask 2-3 times per week for gentle but effective exfoliation. We love Sunday Skin Fresh Face Exfoliating Cleanser as a cleanser and exfoliator in one.
