Good skin that lasts a lifetime doesn’t happen by accident. No matter how amazing our mom (or grandma) looks, our genes are only part of the equation. So even when we're preoccupied with a pimple the size of a small village, freaky dry flakes, or zombie-grade dark circles, we still have to plan ahead for long-term wear and tear. After all, aging is also triggered by things like sun exposure, diet, and stress, which — unlike our DNA — are within our control. So what's the best way to tackle our daily skin dramas and achieve an always-envious complexion? According to NYC dermatologists Joshua Zeichner, MD, and Dendy Engelman, MD, we need to incorporate a few "big picture" preventative solutions into our routine as early as possible. In the spirit of being proactive, we're heeding their advice: Starting with adding a treatment serum like bareMinerals SKINLONGEVITY™ Vital Power Infusion, we'll be one step closer to glowing skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. But, as you might have guessed, there's a lot more to great skin than great products, like a proper cleansing ritual (yep, there is a wrong way to wash your face) and sun protection. Ahead, we've compiled your derm-approved playbook, with strategies that show results in as little as five minutes and ones that will maintain your flawless face 10 years from now and beyond. Even if grandma's genes don't have your back, you've got this.
Wash your face with an actual cleanser.
See results: 5 minutes
Why it works: Friendly service reminder: Makeup-removing cloths are meant to be a backup plan for late nights or travel — not a permanent substitute for soap and water. The most effective way to wash your face is with a gentle formula appropriate for your skin type. The goal is to thoroughly remove the sweat, excess grease, makeup, and random gunk that settles in your pores throughout the day — without stripping away all your natural oils. Cleansing cloths can leave a residue behind, plus they prevent your fingers from actually touching your skin. Why is making contact important? “Gentle skin massage not only gives you a deeper cleanse, it can help encourage blood flow and improve skin tone,” says Dr. Zeichner. Post-cleanse, be sure to slather on a moisturizer to maintain that fresh glow.
“Namaste” your way to more glow.
See results: One day
Why it works: Need another excuse to squeeze in a yoga class in your already-slammed schedule? Here’s three: Mastering your downward dog not only melts away muscle tension and stress, the mind-body practice helps your complexion, too. “Yoga can give your skin a beautiful glow,” says Dr. Engelman. “The increased blood flow increases oxygen and micronutrient delivery to your skin.” And when you make a steady date with your mat, the benefits keep getting better. Regular exercise stimulates mitochondria (your cells’ powerhouses) to function better, which may slow the aging process, according to Dr. Zeichner.
Add a serum to your daily skin-care routine, pronto!
See results: Two weeks
Why it works: It’s time to take serum off your “optional” list and add it to your daily lineup. Several of your skin’s repair processes begin to slow down as early as your mid-20s — even before it shows on your face. A serum gives your skin an extra boost of radiance and keeps it looking healthy. Check out vitamin- and mineral-rich serums like bareMinerals SKINLONGEVITY™ Vital Power Infusion, which contains a blend of Long Life Herb (a Japanese superfood), California Poppy, and Lempuyang Ginger extracts. Lightweight and fast to absorb, it also provides light hydration, leaving your skin smooth and glowy. Apply a thin layer under your moisturizer and never look back.
Use a retinoid two or three times a week (to combat pretty much everything).
See results: One month
Why it works: Vitamin A derivatives are a triple threat against wrinkles, age spots, and acne. “They work on the cellular level to enhance exfoliation and reveal healthier, younger-looking skin,” says Dr. Engelman. You don’t have to look very far to find a good retinoid; just know that they come in different forms and strengths. Retinol is a weaker over-the-counter version found in many drugstore creams, while tretinoin is the prescription-strength, more potent version you can get from a doctor. Both are effective, but results take at least four weeks. Also, your skin may get cranky as it adjusts to vitamin A. “Because retinol accelerates cell turnover, it may increase dryness, irritation, and peeling,” says Dr. Engelman. Start with a light application once or twice a week and then increase to a nightly application if you can tolerate it.
Disappear your dark spots.
See results: Three to six months
Why it works: Pigment enlarges and accumulates over time, so those cute freckles that pop up in summer may morph into brown spots and splotches come fall. Sunscreen can prevent new ones from forming, but you’ll need a topical fading agent to tackle existing spots. Dr. Engelman recommends an over-the-counter brightener that contains hydroquinone or kojic acid. You can apply it twice daily to the dark area immediately after cleansing, then top with your other treatments and daily SPF, she says.
The sooner you deal with hyperpigmentation, the better. Once your melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment) are stimulated, it’s hard to turn them off — especially if your hyperpigmentation is triggered by hormones. Be patient. Clearing melanin pigment from the skin is a slow process, says Dr. Engelman. “It takes eight to 12 weeks to lighten hyperpigmentation.”
Clean up your diet.
See results: Today (and for years to come)
Why it works: Of course we all love a late-night slice and savory drunken noodles, but don’t expect to love them every night without it taking a toll on your skin. Consuming too much sugar and processed food triggers inflammation in your body, which can give your face a puffy, bloated look that no amount of contouring skills can deflect. “Your diet provides your body with the building blocks for healthy skin cells,” says Dr. Zeichner. What’s the best menu for your skin? “One that’s rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants. Think colorful fruits, green leafy vegetables, and fatty fish like salmon.” Feed your face the good stuff, and you’ll tone up your skin from the inside out...and probably trim your takeout spending in the process.
Wear SPF every. single. day.
See results: 10 years and beyond
Why it works: Beside making our skin look like leather, ultraviolet radiation does some pretty messed up things. It causes DNA cell damage and increases our skin cancer risk. UV also degrades skin's collagen, leading to premature aging, says Dr. Zeichner. Since UV is present year-round, don’t leave it up to a weather app to remind you to slather on your best line of defense. Make it a daily habit to apply a cream with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher before you head out the door. Trust us on this one — your future face will totally thank you.
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