It’s never too early or too late to start a skin care regimen. The skin is the largest organ on the body. Of course we need to take care of it asap!
That means starting in childhood with gentle cleansers, gentle moisturizers that are fragrance free, and sunscreen. Of course every child and adult is different and most regimens need to be curated individually by a professional. This means by your board certified dermatologist and not your Sephora® or department store salesperson. I love Sephora® (you should see how many VIB points I have), but stick with buying your haircare, makeup and perfumes there; not your skin creams.
The simple basic childhood regimen should continue through the teen years. A teen with acne will need to add some some anti-inflammatory and exfoliating products like benzoyl peroxide and/or salicylic acid. More moderate-severe acne will likely need prescription products like topical antibiotics and retinoids. This is a great time in life to see a board certified dermatologist (BCD) and develop a skincare routine that includes OTC and possibly prescription products.
Prejuvenation?!??
The 20s is a great time to start “prejuvenation” and add antioxidants and retinols/retinoids to the mix.
- This should continue into your 30s and beyond. Other “rejuvinating” products can be incorporated later on like growth factors, stem cells, and DNA repair enzymes.
- I’ll discuss what products are worth splurging on and what can be bought at CVS later on.
- Great skincare starts with gentle cleansing, moisturizing and avoiding and protecting your skin from the sun. 23% of sun damage occurs before the age of 18 so train your kids to apply their own sunscreen. Just like 6-pack abs are made in the kitchen no matter how many crunches you do, great skin is made and maintained with consistency and compliance to your regimen no matter what facials and lasers you get done.
Dr. Litani’s Faves
- Cleansers:
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Foam Face Wash, SkinMedica facial cleanser, Neocutis gentle cleanser. I also am partial to Garniers blue top micellar water. - Moisturizers with Sunscreen:
Elta MD UV daily and UV clear, Eucerin Daily Protection Face Lotion, Cerave AM. - Moisturizers without Sunscreen:
Cerave PM, Neutrogena Hydroboost, SkinMedica HA5, SKin Medica Ultra sheer moisturizer
