Things I wish I knew in my 20s: Skincare & Self-Care lessons to live by

My younger self

If we could go back in time and have a heart-to-heart with our younger selves, what would we say? Would we remind ourselves to slow down, to worry less, to enjoy the little things? Or maybe we’d give some practical advice—like always wearing SPF or drinking more water.

Hindsight is a funny thing. The lessons we learn along the way often seem so obvious once we know them, but back then, they weren’t even on our radar. When it comes to skincare and self-care, there are so many things we wish we had known earlier—things that could have saved us time, effort, and a few unnecessary breakouts!

So, if I could pass down a little wisdom, here’s what I would tell my younger self (and anyone else who needs the reminder):


So, if I could pass down a little wisdom, here’s what I would tell my younger self (and anyone else who needs the reminder):

1. Go to bed fully moisturised (looking like a glazed doughnut). Hydration is everything! Your skin repairs itself overnight, so give it all the moisture it needs.
2. Remember to wash your face in the evening and in the morning. Even if you didn’t wear makeup, your skin collects dirt, oil, and pollutants throughout the day and night. A fresh face is a happy face!
3. A skincare routine is key. Follow these easy steps:
Cleanser (to remove dirt and oil).
Tone (with an active toner for extra benefits).
– Treat (with a serum suited to your skin concerns).
Moisturise (to lock in hydration).
SPF (always use full-spectrum sunscreen, even on cloudy days).
4. Toners are great if they have active ingredients in them. A good toner preps your skin, balances its pH, and enhances the absorption of serums and moisturisers.
5. Drink at least 1L of water a day, if you can get to 2L, even better! Hydrated skin starts from within, and drinking enough water helps maintain that natural glow.
6. Hormones fluctuate! We are created that way. Your skin will go through phases—sometimes oily, sometimes dry. Be patient, listen to what it needs, and adjust accordingly.
7. You are what you eat. Yip, we went there.. A healthy gut = healthier skin. Support your skin from the inside with nutrient-rich foods and probiotics.
8. Moisturise straight after showering or bathing. Your skin absorbs moisture best when it’s slightly damp, so lock it in right away!
9. Facial massages work wonders. They help boost circulation, reduce puffiness, improve lymphatic drainage, and even soften the appearance of wrinkles.
10. When doing your skincare, don’t forget your neck (front and back!). The neck is often overlooked, but it shows signs of aging just like your face. Treat it with the same care!
11. Chamomile tea bags are great for puffy eyes. Their anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritation, reduce swelling, and give your eyes a refreshed, well-rested look.
12. Choose skincare products that are non-toxic and appropriate for YOUR skin. Not your best friend’s, not an influencer’s—your skin has unique needs, and your routine should reflect that.

If only we had known all of this sooner.. but that’s the beauty of learning—each step we take brings us closer to the best version of ourselves. If you’re reading this now, it’s not too late to start building healthier habits your future self will thank you for!
Whether you’re just beginning your skincare journey or refining your routine, every small change adds up to a healthier, happier glow. Here’s to embracing the lessons, caring for our skin, and feeling our best at any and every age!
If only we had known all of this sooner.. but that’s the beauty of learning—each step we take brings us closer to the best version of ourselves. If you’re reading this now, it’s not too late to start building healthier habits your future self will thank you for!
Whether you’re just beginning your skincare journey or refining your routine, every small change adds up to a healthier, happier glow. Here’s to embracing the lessons, caring for our skin, and feeling our best at any and every age!

If only we had known all of this sooner.. but that’s the beauty of learning—each step we take brings us closer to the best version of ourselves. If you’re reading this now, it’s not too late to start building healthier habits your future self will thank you for!
Whether you’re just beginning your skincare journey or refining your routine, every small change adds up to a healthier, happier glow. Here’s to embracing the lessons, caring for our skin, and feeling our best at any and every age!

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