For anyone out there in their thirties or beyond, you know what I'm talking about when I say things start to change in this decade! Gone are the carefree days of our teens and twenties; now, life gets real. During this decade, many start families and have babies; careers are forged, and long hours are toiled away at the office. Balancing work and home becomes more challenging, more stressful, and often, healthy habits like exercise, nutrition, and self-care go out the window. I know they did for me!

Oh, and by the way, have you noticed a change in your skin's appearance lately? It might be looking less bright, less full, and lines are starting to show up even when you're not moving. Relax, it's just a new chapter in life—a time that's both exciting and potentially stressful. To all those navigating their thirties, here's a tip: Now is the right time to make impactful changes in your skin, and it starts with creating a healthy skincare routine.

The good news is, this doesn't have to be complicated.  However, before we jump into the world of skincare products and ingredients, let's take it a step further. Taking care of our bodies goes a long way in making our skin look and feel better!

Here are some habits to start now for healthy skin for decades to come:

1) Exercise

Is there anything exercise doesn't make better? Turns out, it's great for our skin too! Doing resistance training, like lifting weights, helps make your skin thicker by boosting collagen. So, exercise isn't just for staying fit—it's a win for our skin too!

2) Diet and Nutrition

It's time to ditch the ramen noodles and pizza from your dorm days. Opt for a diet rich in nutritious foods packed with antioxidants, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates. These choices are the secret to achieving that radiant, glowing skin you've been aiming for!

3) Water

Hydration is key! Get your favorite cup or trendy beverage holder ready because it's time to drink up! Skip those sugary sodas and juices in favor of refreshing, pure water. Want to make it more exciting? Try adding a twist of lemon or lime for a zesty kick, or opt for sparkling water to add a festive feel.

4) Sun protection

SPF is your BFF during this decade and beyond! Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, and consider sun-protective clothing as an extra layer of defense. By prioritizing sun protection now, you're actively safeguarding yourself from future skin concerns and the possibility of skin cancers.

So, apart from maintaining healthy body habits, what's the ideal skincare routine for those in their 30s?

Well, it's surprisingly simple: stick to a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen!  Yep that's it! Now, if you want to get a bit fancier for that optimal skin glow, try an antioxidant like Vitamin C serum in the morning and a Vitamin A cream, such as a retinol/retinoid, in the evening.

Avoid overloading your skin with too many products, as this might potentially worsen skin problems. If you are struggling with hormonal acne, rosacea, eczema, or other skin conditions, be sure to speak with your board-certified dermatologist on the best products for your skin type.

What about cosmetic procedures?

Usually the first cosmetic procedure people try is a neuromodulator like Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin. These treatments work wonders in softening lines and enhancing skin radiance. Surprisingly, even a few units can make a big difference! The best time to start is when you notice lines staying on your face after speaking or moving your facial muscles. However, the timing varies based on personal preferences.

Other cosmetic procedures that can be helpful during this important decade include fillers, biostimulants, IPL, laser, and other energy-based devices. You want to be sure to see someone well trained in skin and aesthetics to make sure you are selecting a procedure that you really need, and not just what your friend had!

While prevention and maintenance are key, no matter what decade of life you're in, it's never too late to make smart, healthy skin habits a priority. Your skin will thank you!

Join me for an exciting podcast episode this week, featuring Dr. Brooke Corbett. We're talking about why your thirties can trigger thoughts about aging, the changes in your skin, and tips for healthy aging. 

https://theskinreal.podbean.com

Follow Dr. Corbett here:-

https://www.instagram.com/brookecorbettmd/