*PR: Ark Skincare items were gifted

Sian Victoria © - Ark Skincare: Cleanser, Moisturiser & Masque

How to Look After Your Skin from Teens to 20s & Best Products

Picking out skincare in your teens or 20s can feel pretty confusing with so many products and advice floating around. Your skin is still figuring itself out, and starting good habits now can lay the groundwork for healthy skin down the line. This guide gives you practical skincare tips specifically for teenagers and those in their 20s, helping you understand what your skin needs and how to take care of it.

During these years, your skin goes through all kinds of changes because of hormones, lifestyle, and the environment. It’s super important to create a skincare routine that adapts as your skin evolves. Getting to know the basics, like figuring out your skin type, will make it way easier to pick out the ideal products that actually work for you. Remember, proper cleansing, staying hydrated, and protecting your skin from the sun are essential steps everyone should include in their daily routine.

What you eat, how much water you drink, and your overall lifestyle really affect how your skin looks and feels. Making smart choices about your diet and how you treat your skin can lead to long-lasting benefits. The upcoming sections offer a complete guide to help you keep your complexion glowing and healthy as you move through your teen years and into your 20s. At the end of this post, I’ll also be reviewing a 3-step skincare routine from the brand Ark Skincare, which has kindly gifted me a set of products formulated for this age range.

1. Get to Know Your Skin Type

Figuring out your skin type is super important for putting together a good skincare routine. Skin can usually be broken down into four main types: oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. If you have oily skin, like me, you probably deal with extra shine and more breakouts because of all that sebum.

Dry skin, on the flip side, might feel tight and could look flaky or rough since it lacks moisture. Combination skin means you’ve got a mix going on—typically an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and drier cheeks.

Sensitive skin can be a bit tricky; it might react with redness, itching, or irritation when it comes into contact with certain products. Choosing skincare that’s made for your specific skin type helps keep your skin happy and healthy, cutting down on any negative reactions. Getting to know these skin traits can really help you pick the right cleansers, moisturisers, and treatments for your unique needs.

2. Cleansing Every AM and PM is a Must

Cleansing your face is absolutely necessary for getting rid of all the gunk that can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Start off with lukewarm water to help open up your pores, then grab a gentle cleanser that works for your skin type. Massage it into your face in circular motions to lift away dirt, oil, and leftover makeup. Make sure to rinse well so there's no residue left, as that can irritate your skin.

Cleansing in the morning helps wash away sweat and oils from the night, while the evening routine takes care of all the dirt and grime from the day. Steer clear of harsh soaps and hot water since they can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.

If you wear makeup, give double cleansing a shot. Start with an oil-based cleanser to help break down all that makeup, then use a water-based one to make sure your skin gets really clean. This way, you’ll ensure that all your makeup is gone, leaving your skin feeling fresh. Regularly cleansing your face is key to keeping your skin clear and healthy.

3. Moisturising Matters

Moisturiser is needed to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. A lot of people think only dry skin needs a moisturiser, but even if you have oily or combo skin, you can definitely benefit from some regular hydration.

The trick is to pick a product that matches your skin type: go for lightweight, gel-based moisturisers if you're oily, and richer creams if you’re on the dry side. Make sure to choose non-comedogenic options to avoid clogging your pores.

Moisturisers work to strengthen your skin’s barrier, making it better at battling stuff like pollution and harsh weather. After you've cleansed your face, apply your moisturiser while your skin's still a bit damp to really lock in that hydration. This not only keeps your skin comfy but also helps it look naturally glowing.

Sian Victoria © - Ark Skincare Age Protect Cleanser

4. Apply Sun Protection Every Day

Put on a facial sunscreen every day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Go for a broad-spectrum product with at least SPF 30 to defend against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can accelerate ageing and raise the chances of getting skin cancer, while UVB rays are mainly responsible for sunburn.

Make sure to slather it on all the skin that's exposed, and don't forget to put more on every couple of hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Even if it’s cloudy, don’t skip the sunscreen. Up to 80% of UV rays can actually get through and still reach your skin.

For added convenience, look for moisturisers or foundations that contain SPF. Don’t forget those often-overlooked spots like your ears, scalp, neck, and the backs of your hands. Making sunscreen a habit can help keep your skin youthful, reduce dark spots, and lower your risk of skin cancer.

5. Consume Lots of Water and Hydrating Fruits

Drinking around eight glasses of water a day is ideal for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. This internal hydration helps your skin look its best from the inside out, helping to keep your skin elastic and giving it that plump, glowing look.

Try to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, but feel free to adjust that based on how active you are or the weather. When you're low on hydration, your skin can end up looking pretty dull and dry, and it might show more fine lines and wrinkles. You can also munch on foods that are really high in water, like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon, as it's one of the best ways to boost your hydration.

Keeping a reusable water bottle with you is a great way to remind yourself to sip water regularly throughout the day. Keeping hydrated from the inside out helps your skin stay resilient and youthful.

6. Eat Natural and Colourful Foods

Eating a balanced diet can really do wonders for your skin and overall well-being. It's all about adding a mix of nutrient-packed foods to what you eat every day. Fruits and veggies like berries, carrots, and leafy greens are packed with antioxidants that help battle free radicals, which in turn keep your skin looking fresh and young.

Lean proteins—think chicken, fish, and tofu—give you the essential amino acids needed to keep your skin strong and aid in healing. Don’t forget about healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and olive oil; they help keep your skin hydrated and soft.

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially from fish like salmon and flaxseeds, are great for reducing inflammation and keeping your skin moist. Whole grains like quinoa and brown rice are good too, providing steady energy and B vitamins for your skin.

Also, cutting back on sugary and processed foods can help you avoid breakouts and other skin problems since those high-glycemic foods can mess with your insulin levels and increase oil production, leading to acne. When paying attention to what you eat, you can really boost your skin's health from the inside out.

Sian Victoria © - Ark Skincare Skin Perfector Hydration injection masque

7. Avoid Picking at Your Skin

As tempting as it might be, try not to pick at your skin or squeeze pimples. Doing that can make things worse by spreading bacteria, leading to more breakouts and possible scarring. Instead, stick to targeted acne treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to tackle those unwanted spots. These are designed to calm inflammation and help your skin heal without causing more damage.

Keep your hands clean and try not to touch your face too much since that just puts more oils and dirt on your skin, which can cause even more breakouts. If you find it hard to resist picking, using hydrocolloid patches can help. They not only speed up healing but also act as a barrier to keep you from picking at them.

Just keep in mind that being patient and choosing the right treatments is key to handling breakouts well. So, resist the urge and give your skin time to heal on its own for the best outcome, preventing scarring and bursting facial veins.

8. Exfoliate for Smooth Skin

Exfoliation is a great way to scrub off all those dead skin cells that can hang around and make your skin look dull and uneven. When you exfoliate, you're helping to clear out your pores, which can stop breakouts and let your other skincare products soak in better, making them work harder for you.

There are basically two kinds of exfoliants: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliants do the scrubbing, while chemical ones work by breaking down dead skin with ingredients. I personally prefer to avoid physical scrubs like apricot ones nowadays, as they use tiny yet sharp particles to scrub away dead skin. So, just be careful with these, as they can cause small tears in your skin if they're too rough.

The best option is facial chemical exfoliants; on the flip side, use ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to dissolve dead skin without the scrubbing part. AHAs, like glycolic acid, mix well with water and are awesome for dry or sun-damaged skin, helping to improve texture and tone. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are oil-based and get deeper into the pores, making them perfect for oily and acne-prone skin.

If you're adding exfoliation to your skincare routine, start off slow, especially if you’re new to it or have sensitive skin. Try a lower concentration of acids or a gentler scrub once a week. Then, as your skin gets used to it, you can ramp it up to two or three times a week. Always follow up with a moisturiser to keep your newly fresh skin calm and protected. And don’t exfoliate on days when you’re using other strong products like retinoids to avoid irritation.

9. Consider Professional Advice

Seeing a dermatologist can really make a difference when it comes to figuring out the best skincare routine for you. These experts know how to diagnose and treat unwanted skin issues like acne, eczema, and rosacea, which can be tough to handle on your own. They can suggest products and treatments that are just right for your skin type, which saves you a bunch of trouble and cash instead of experimenting with random over-the-counter stuff.

Plus, they can do in-office treatments like chemical peels and laser therapy that can seriously improve how your skin looks and feels. Dermatologists also know how to help you use powerful ingredients like retinoids safely, which can be super effective but need to be applied carefully to avoid any irritation.

Regular visits to a dermatologist are great for keeping an eye on your skin’s health, helping catch problems like skin cancer early on. Whether you're dealing with stubborn acne, want to tackle signs of ageing, or just need some tips on keeping your skin healthy, getting professional help can really change the game. Investing in a dermatologist means you'll be making smart choices and using products that actually help your skin.

Sian Victoria © - Ark Skincare Age Protect Skin Vitality Moisturiser

10. Improve Sleep and How You Manage Stress

Getting a solid night’s sleep is the best thing you can do for your skin to heal and refresh itself. When you hit that deep sleep stage, your body pumps more blood to your skin, which gives you a fresh look in the morning. But if you’re not getting enough sleep, your skin might end up looking dull, and you could wake up with dark circles and more noticeable fine lines and wrinkles. Aim for about 7-9 hours of beauty sleep. To do this, you should ideally go to bed at the same time each night and make your sleeping space as calming as possible.

Stress can really mess with your skin, too. When you're stressed out, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can make your skin produce more oil, leading to breakouts and other issues. To keep stress in check, try adding some stress-reducing relaxation techniques to your day, like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. These can help lower cortisol levels and make you feel better overall.

And don’t forget about physical activity! Exercising is great for managing stress, and it helps your skin, too. It helps get blood pumping, which means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered, helping your skin look vibrant and healthy. Plus, regular workouts can help balance your hormones, which could reduce stress-related skin problems.

It's also essential to make time for things you love, whether that’s reading, picking up a hobby, or hanging out with friends and family. Doing things that make you happy can give your mind a break from daily stress, which is good for both your mental and skin health. So, by focusing on getting enough sleep and keeping stress at bay, you're helping your skin stay strong and radiant.

11. Pick Your Makeup Wisely

Picking the right makeup can really affect your skin's health. Always look for products that say "non-comedogenic" to avoid blocked pores and breakouts. Mineral-based makeup is usually a smart choice since it’s less likely to irritate your skin and doesn't have harsh chemicals. It’s super important to pick makeup that fits your skin type; for example, go for oil-free foundations if your skin is oily, and grab hydrating formulas if it’s dry.

Before you start your makeup, make sure to use a good moisturiser and primer. This gets your skin ready and gives you a smooth base, plus it helps protect your skin from all the potential irritants in the makeup. And don’t forget to clean your makeup brushes and sponges regularly! They can collect bacteria that lead to skin issues, so aim to wash them at least once a week with a gentle soap or a specialised brush cleaner.

If you have sensitive skin, steer clear of makeup with fragrances or alcohol, since those can irritate your skin. Whenever you try out new products, make sure to do a patch test so you don't end up with a bad reaction. Also, don’t forget to take off your makeup at night—it’s super important for your skin to breathe and recover while you sleep.

12. Be Patient and Consistent

Skincare is all about patience and sticking with it. You won’t see results right away, so it’s important to keep up with your routine even when changes aren’t evident. Products can take a while, sometimes weeks, to really start working, so be consistent with applying them. Try not to switch things up too often, as it can throw your skin off balance and slow down your progress.

It’s also totally normal to have setbacks like breakouts or dryness along the way. Just remember that consistency helps your skin adapt and get stronger. Celebrate even the little wins and trust that your hard work will pay off over time!

Ark Skincare: Review of 3-Step Skin Routine for Teens & 20s

If you follow my Instagram Stories, you may have seen that I received a lovely package from Ark Skincare, which included the Skin Clear Cleanser, Hydration Injection Masque, and Skin Vitality Moisturiser.

This is a skincare brand I had never heard of before, but after exploring their product range and reading reviews, I was eager to incorporate this trio into my beauty routine. I've been using them for almost two months, and they are almost empty now, so I thought it was the perfect time to review my new favourite British skincare brand.

Step 1: Ark Skincare Age Protect Skin Clear Cleanser

The Ark Skincare Age Protect Skin Clear Cleanser is specifically formulated for teens and those in their 20s. This soap-free face wash has antibacterial properties and effectively removes impurities without compromising the skin’s natural moisture balance. It contains watercress, nettle, oat amino acids, and horsetail to eliminate shine and excess sebum while helping to reduce acne. Additionally, it includes white tea and vitamin E to minimise skin damage.

I find that it lathers well and feels wonderful on my skin. I massage it in a circular motion, paying special attention to my T-zone. After rinsing the cleanser off with lukewarm water, I wash my face again. I’ve found that double cleansing has significantly helped my skin over the past few months by removing any traces of makeup and dirt, ultimately preventing unwanted blemishes.

Step 2: Ark Skincare Skin Perfector Hydration Injection Masque

The Ark Skin Perfector Hydration Injection Masque features a blend of vitamins designed to nourish the skin. It includes vitamin A, which keeps the skin supple; vitamin B5, which promotes smoothness; vitamin C, which brightens the complexion; and vitamin E, which provides antioxidant protection. Additionally, the masque contains hyaluronic acid, sugar beet, and Abyssinian oil to deliver moisture and a youthful glow.

After performing a double cleanse, I apply the hydration injection masque all over my face and leave it on for 20 minutes, allowing my skin to fully absorb all those vitamins. Ark, being an age-aware skincare brand, recommends that teens and those in their twenties leave the mask on for just five minutes. However, I prefer to keep it on longer for a more intensive treatment, which is suggested for those aged fifty and above. Once I rinse off the clear mask, I apply a toner followed by the Skin Vitality Moisturiser. By morning, my skin feels soft and looks healthy, bright, and pampered.

Step 3: Ark Skincare Age Protect Skin Vitality Moisturiser

To complete my skincare routine, I use the Age Protect Skin Vitality Moisturiser. This product is rich in antioxidants, featuring ingredients such as avocado (yes, I love those creamy green fruits!), marine algae, peach lipids, omega-9 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E. It helps to prevent dryness and dullness and protects against harmful environmental factors.

I find that the moisturiser leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated. However, I prefer to avoid using it before applying makeup, as it can contribute to my already shiny complexion. Instead, I apply it all over my face and neck before bed and stick to my usual matte skincare in the morning.

Overall, I am really impressed with the Ark Skincare range. Since I started doing a double cleanse, my blemishes have significantly reduced, and my forehead, which has had bumps for the past few years, has smoothed out. The injection mask adds moisture and makes my skin feel truly pampered.

To conclude

Doing the best for your skin in your teens and 20s sets you up for healthy, glowing skin as you get older. It’s the perfect time to establish good habits that will really pay off later on. Just keep it simple and stick to the basics: cleanse, moisturise, and always wear sunscreen. Also, knowing your skin type is super important—it’ll help you choose the right products and avoid things that might mess with your skin.

Don't forget about lifestyle factors! Eating lots of nutrient-packed foods and antioxidants can really boost your skin, and drinking enough water keeps skin hydrated and glowing. Avoid picking at your face to steer clear of breakouts and scars, and try gentle exfoliation to keep things smooth.

If you're having skin problems that just won't go away, talking to a dermatologist can really help you get the right treatment for your situation. Plus, improving your sleep routine and keeping stress in check is ideal; it helps your skin bounce back and look its best. When it comes to makeup, stick to non-comedogenic and mineral-based options to keep pores clear, and always make sure to take your makeup off thoroughly at the end of the day.

Getting healthy skin is a marathon, not a sprint. Sticking with your skincare routine will really pay off over time. Make sure to celebrate those little wins along the way and don’t be afraid to adjust your routine as your skin changes. If you put in the effort now, you’ll be well on your way to a gorgeous complexion that lasts for years.

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