Welcome to the first post in a five-part series about how to power your skin potential. We’ll cover all things skin care, from powerhouse products to skin function and structure.

Like most people, you may be wondering when to start using skin care products. Establishing a regular skin care routine is the best way to enjoy healthy, vibrant-looking skin throughout your life. And while a good routine doesn’t require dozens of products, it does require consistency. Plus,
skin care is self-care—and who doesn’t love indulging in a little self-care on the daily?

When to start using skin care products

You don’t need a four-step skin care regimen at age six, but you do need to layer on that sunscreen from an early age. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 is one of the best ways to battle the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.

And apply it every day, even if you don’t have plans to spend time outside or the sun isn’t shining. Those wrinkle-and-age spot-inducing rays can get to you through the clouds and a car window.

What to use in your teens and 20s

Good skin care routines start here. The health and appearance of your skin down the road depends on how you care for it now. Your teen years are blemish time, and your 20s bring the first signs of aging (gasp!), including:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Dryness
  • Dullness
  • Greater sensitivity
  • Age spots 

Yes! Age spots can totally show up in your 20s if you spend a lot of time in the sun and don’t use sunscreen regularly—more reason to apply that SPF.

If you’re in your teens, your skin care routine might be as simple as a gentle cleanser and moisturizer with SPF 15 or higher. Battling blemishes? Try an oil- or acne-control cleanser and spot treat with salicylic acid.

As you move into your 20s, power up your skin care regimen with anti-aging products that promote hydration, support skin renewal, and smooth texture. Look for products that contain:

  • Antioxidants like Vitamin C and green tea to help fight free radicals and enhance your natural glow
  • Hydroxy acid to help exfoliate and reveal more radiant-looking skin
  • Hyaluronic acid to help deliver deep hydration and improve skin’s resiliency

And never underestimate the importance of a balancing toner and weekly exfoliation. Both help slough off old skin cells and wake up a tired-looking complexion. 

Want an easy way to ensure you’re using skin care products that pack the biggest skin-loving, glow-boosting punch? We’ve got you covered. 

What to use in your 30s, 40s, and beyond

They say 50 is the new 20. Prove them right with standout-looking skin that defies age. How? Take a proactive approach with wrinkles and own your glow by infusing your skin care routine with a retinol or retinoid product. When paired with your favorite hydrating moisturizer, it powers up your skin’s ability to fend off fine lines and wrinkles. 

We’re all for a dynamic age-defying duo!

What’s the difference between retinol and retinoid?

We’re glad you asked! Retinoid is a term for any product that contains a retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A) derivative. Prescription-only retinoic acid is the most active form of retinol. It’s instantly effective, but its higher potency means greater potential for dryness, redness, and irritation. Over-the-counter retinol is less active and takes longer to work because the skin has to convert it to retinoic acid before taking effect. Its lower potency helps minimize harsh side effects with sensitive skin.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stick to the skin care basics: 

  • Gentle cleanser
  • Balancing toner
  • Reenergizing serum
  • Hydrating moisturizer

Pro tip: Add RENU28® Revitalizing Redox Gel to your day at any age for more luminous, youthful-looking skin—the kind of complexion that says “you glow, girl!”