10 Skincare Rules For Preventing Fine Lines in Your 20s

Reminder: sun protection is one of the most important things to include in a skincare regime to prevent premature aging — so get on it! Consider using something that will perform double duty as a sunscreen and sheer foundation, like the La Roche Posay Anthelios 50 Tinted Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen ($34).

Avocado actually aids in developing healthier, more balanced skin. "Add healthy fats rich in omega-3 fatty acids as well as antioxidants to your diet," said Dr. Michele Farber of Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC. "Think avocados, olive oil, salmon, and nuts like almonds, as this helps reduce inflammation and regenerate the cell membrane."

Just another excuse to go brunching on the weekends.

Now that you're at least in your 20s, you must be responsible and take off your makeup before bed, no matter what. You should cleanse, tone, and moisturize while you're at it, but at the bare minimum, take the makeup off. Keep a pack of Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes ($12 for a twin-pack) on the bathroom counter. Your skin will thank you!

"Drinking at least 1.5 liters of water a day will detox your body, hydrate your skin, and make you look more fresh faced and dewy." Dr. Erin Gilbert MD, PhD, and director of Gilbert Dermatology told us.

I used to have a tough time remembering to drink enough water. Then, I started carrying a giant water bottle around with me at all times. Those who have the same problem should consider doing the same, because it could make a huge difference.

You might be tempted to slather on the antiaging night creams, but doing so could make things worse. "When younger women use these products, they can break out, since they contain a higher concentration of heavier moisturizing ingredients." Dr. Gilbert explained.

Opt for products that contain hyaluronic acid, retinols, and retinoids, which will stimulate collagen without weighing the skin down and causing nasty breakouts.

Does anyone need an excuse to eat strawberries and raspberries by the handful? Well, in case you do, they are basically a coveted superfood formulated for great skin. "Antioxidant-packed foods like berries help fight damage at the cellular level for healthier skin," Dr. Farber said.

When it comes to using an eye cream, the earlier, the better. You can prevent fine lines and wrinkles that form around the eye, often some of the first to appear.

Dr. Gilbert recommends the NeoCutis Lumiere Riche Bio-Restorative Eye Balm ($108), which also reduces puffiness and dark circles (which, if we're being honest, we all need).

Eating nutrient-dense, whole foods has a positive impact on skin, but be sure to not overload on the fruit. Even too much of the good type of sugar can cause problems for the skin: beyond breakouts, it can also add on to the aging process.

"The most important thing is to avoid juices and shakes that contain too much sugar," Dr. Gilbert explained, "I tell my patients to opt for those with fewer than 25 grams of sugar, since consuming a lot of sugar creates glycation metabolites that actually contribute to skin aging."

Getting in the habit of a preventative skincare regime will help when fine lines do come in. Take the time to find cleansers, toners, exfoliants, serums, retinoid and retinol products, and moisturizers that are best suited for your skin, and stick with them.

"Using a retinol/retinoids and antioxidant serum at night is also helpful to stimulate collagen and neutralize environmental damage." Dr. Farber said. "It’s a powerful cocktail to repair and prevent future damage to your skin."

Getting regular (or semiregular) facials will prevent aging and keep skin hydrated, glowing, and smooth. That being said, not a lot of 20-somethings can afford once-a-month facials, so DIY facials can be a great asset. Grab a good exfoliant, a clay-based face mask, and a moisturizing mask, and finish off with a good moisturizer for an at-home spa experience.