Skin-Care Habits to Start NOW to Get Gorgeous Skin for Years to Come

Sometimes, being a creature of habit can work in your favor at least when it comes to your skin. a Manhattan-based dermatologist, shares the routines that are musts for beautiful skin now and that will set you up for great-looking skin later on down the road, too.

Going to a Dermatologist:
If you haven't done so yet, book an appointment with a dermatologist in your area . Green says that having an expert on your skin works to your advantage in major ways. That way, you can get on a scientifically proven treatment plan that is tailored specifically to you. Regular checkups help your dermatologist keep track of changes in your skin, so your routine can change as your skin does.

Buying Products Meant for Your Skin Type:
Combination, sensitive, dry, oily knowing your skin's needs is half the battle. Each skin type requires different types of cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and treatments. Save yourself years of trial and error with products by asking your dermatologist what your type is.

Wearing Sunscreen:
Green says nothing ages the skin quite like sun damage. For skin that will stay beautiful as you mature, wear an SPF 40 sunscreen underneath your foundation every single day. Seriously, your foundation's sun protection isn't enough. You'd have to use an entire bottle to match the power of a stand-alone sunscreen so use both.

Using a Serum:
If you don't have a serum in your skin-care arsenal, you're seriously missing out. They provide a concentrated dose of active ingredients that absorb into the skin lightning-fast. Look for one that satisfies your skin's needs, whether it's extreme hydration or pigment lightening.

Fighting Aging:
Are you getting wrinkles from worrying about wrinkles? The minute you're aware that your skin is not perennially gorgeous, it's time to take preventive measures. Green says you should start looking for products that have anti-aging benefits as early as your 20s.

Researching Your Purchases:
That serum touting insane anti-aging claims? There's a fair chance it won't deliver on its promises. Many products that claim holy-grail results actually have little-to-no evidence backing them up, says Green. She recommends looking for evidence such as clinical studies before making a big investment.

Using Vitamin C and Retinol:
The number one thing that Green's star patients have in common? They all use vitamin C and retinols in their youth. Vitamin C provides antioxidants and promotes collagen production, while retinol smoothes wrinkles and boosts elasticity. Incorporate both products into your routine to keep skin looking youthful.

Cleaning Up Your Diet:
Unfortunately for your face, all of the toxins you put into your body will eventually show up on your skin. Green's best advice? Limit your exposure as much as possible.

Sleeping with a Humidifier:
Sleeping with a humidifier running every night can eliminate dry skin and help minimize environmental toxins.

Treating Yourself to Regular Facials:
While they aren't a cure-all for your skin woes, facials work wonders at restoring oxygen and moisture to the skin. Get one done by a pro every month or two, and find an at-home formula that you can use once weekly.

Being Gentle with Your Skin:
Scrubbing your face won't solve your skin issues in fact, Green says it will only make matters worse. Your skin is most receptive to products when they're applied with a soft touch in swooping, circular motions.