4 Tips for College Skincare
When you’re in high school a makeup wipe and a washcloth to clean your face would get the job done.
Now that I am in my twenties, I have realized that it is time to start taking better care of my skin to stay looking youthful for as long as possible. It is easier to take preventative measures rather than try to correct your wrinkles when you are in your 30s or 40s! After doing some research and speaking with my dermatologist, these are a few tried and true ways to keep your skin looking youthful.
1. Wear sunscreen every day
As a child, I wore sunscreen strictly at the beach or the pool. I had yet to learn about the importance of wearing it regularly. The sun is the main reason for our skin aging and causing spots and wrinkles. My esthetician’s number #1 tip for keeping youthful skin was to wear sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather. Initially, I was worried about the oil causing me to break out, but I found some great options for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
2. Tretinoin Cream
Tretinoin is one of the best things I have done for my skin. It is a vitamin A cream or gel available by prescription that works to reduce acne breakouts, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of lines. Although you might suffer a “purging” cycle when you begin using Tretinoin, as it can irritate the skin at first, be patient throughout the process. The light at the end of the tunnel is smoother, healthier skin.
3. Do not pick!
I'm as guilty as the next- I love to pop a pimple. Doing this only worsens your skin and puts you at risk for scarring. Next time you get the urge to pick at your skin, remind yourself that it will heal faster if you leave it be! I use patches to cover my blemishes which prevent me from touching them and making them worse. Mighty Patch is a hydrocolloid sticker that visibly flattens pimples overnight. Stick it on, get some beauty sleep, and wake up with clearer skin.
4. Wash your makeup off
Although the last thing you want to do after coming home from a long day, or after a late night out, is to wash your face, this should be a non-negotiable! Going to bed with an unwashed face can clog your pores, cause swelling and irritation, and can even put you at risk of infections. Set yourself up for success by setting your skincare products on the counter with everything you will need to do before bed. Additionally, instead of spending a fortune on single-use makeup towelettes, it is a good idea to invest in a reusable makeup removal cloth. I love using my Makeup Eraser— just add water and it works like magic!
Although it might not seem extremely important now, your future self will be so thankful that you adopted these simple preventative measures to take care of your skin and preserve your young, glowing skin!
Stay youthful, and…
Be Well, Auburn.
Writer
Born and raised in the small town of Clanton, Alabama, Lydia grew up eating peaches and cheering on the Auburn Tigers. Lydia’s parents are Auburn alumni, and they claim they began “brainwashing” her and her twin into attending Auburn University at an early age.
Lydia is a junior studying Business Marketing. Upon graduation, she hopes to live somewhere in the beloved south and work in the jewelry industry.
When she is not working or attending class, you can find her taking long power walks around Auburn, attending a workout class, or watching Wheel of Fortune.
Her favorite things include Starbucks, Hokas, her family, and her Apple Watch. Lydia’s goal for her remaining years at Auburn University is to continue growing as a person so she can become the best version of herself and serve those around her to the best of her ability.
