If only I was given skincare advice at an early age. I remember when I was 13, I used my very first, glittery eyeshadow. My mom wasn’t really big on makeup and had very select items in her dresser. She was though, very good with her skincare and I remember that she would display her Oil of Olay on the dressing table. I remember sneaking some of the “golden skincare” every now and again just to feel the silkiness on my skin. If only I discovered it sooner, I think my skin would be even better today.
There are a few things I wish I did more of. Take the advice! I wish I could go back in time and do things a little differently.
1. Do not bake in the sun and wear the SPF.
I think this is the most important of all. Back then, I was big into sports at school. I did running, netball, hockey, I loved it! What I also loved, looking back on photos was how tanned I was and then the thought occurred, I never ever wore SPF. Now, I wear AT LEAST SPF 30 rain or shine. Yes, rays peak through the clouds. I learned when I got laser removal. I am not saying become a vampire but, you’ve got to protect your skin from the harsh rays at least during the peak hours of 12-3.
2. Pay attention to your neck and décolletage.
Yes, I moisturized my face. I even put on eye cream from my early 20’s but did I pay attention to the connected areas…nope. Nothing gives your age away more than chest wrinkles. While you are at it, slap on that sunscreen there too.
3. Start Retinoids now.
Don’t wait until you start to see wrinkles, start BEFORE you do. Early prevention is key. Read about a great range here and here.
4. Stop overwashing your face.
A little oil will not make you have a breakout for Pete’s sake. Stop scrubbing your face the way you do burnt cheese off your late-night toasted cheese plate.
5. Do not wax excess hair on your face.
Being the Mediterranean, I had/have a mustache. I waxed it so much it affected my skin. Starting waxing at a young age really takes a toll on the skin later in life. I started laser hair removal in my early twenties and it’s the best money spent. It is not as expensive as you think. It pays itself off if you compare it to all of the waxing appointments over the years.
6. Eat healthy.
You are what you eat and consuming foods with chemicals and too much sugar WILL affect your skin. Look I’m no saint- I drink coke every day but everything in moderation.
7. Limit drinking alcohol.
We all know this is dehydrating to the skin. Save it for when you are over 50 with college kids and bills…but follow it with tons of water at least.
8. Don’t stress it.
Stress can really affect your skin. Everything always works out in the end.
