Skin after 18: how to prevent issues and maintain its beauty.

After the age of 18, the skin undergoes one of its most crucial stages of development — the transition from adolescent to adult skin. Hormonal changes and external factors make it more susceptible to breakouts, inflammation, and the initial signs of dehydration. During this period, the foundations of proper skincare are established, which will impact the health and appearance of the skin in the future. Cosmetic specialist Tatyana Machukha shared how to build an effective routine, avoid common mistakes, and maintain healthy skin.

According to the expert, at 18, the hormonal balance continues to shift, affecting the condition of the skin. Increased oiliness, comedones (a.k.a. blackheads), rashes, or acne can become significant issues. Meanwhile, basic needs like hydration remain essential for all skin types.

The cosmetologist emphasized that it is especially important to remember that even at 18, skin is still considered adolescent, so care should be as gentle and individualized as possible.

Basic Skin Care

Cleansing

As Tatyana Machukha states, cleansing should be routine — twice a day, in the morning and evening. This helps remove excess sebum and impurities that can provoke inflammation.

"Cleansing maintains the balance of the skin's microbiome, which prevents breakouts. For oily or combination skin, it is important to use sebum-regulating products or those with anti-inflammatory properties. The choice of cleansing products depends on the specific condition of the skin, so consulting a cosmetologist is essential," the expert explained.

Moisturizing

The expert noted that even if the skin is oily, it often requires hydration. A well-chosen lightweight cream or gel for oily or combination skin can help maintain moisture balance without overwhelming it.

Care for Problematic Skin

As the cosmetologist explained, if the skin is prone to breakouts or has other issues, at-home care should be combined with professional treatments. It is crucial to consult the appropriate specialist first. A professional cosmetologist can suggest methods for cleansing the skin or therapeutic procedures to reduce inflammation.

"Nutrition, sleep, and stress are key factors that affect the skin's condition. Elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone) can trigger inflammatory reactions, so it is important to reduce stress through rest, physical activity, and a healthy sleep regimen," Tatyana Machukha explained.

Additionally, the cosmetologist advised minimizing the intake of dairy products and sugar, which can trigger breakouts. If in doubt about your diet, it's best to consult a dermatologist or nutritionist.

One of the most common mistakes is self-prescribing cosmetic products without consulting a specialist.

"Often, young people choose overly 'nourishing' creams or harsh cleansing products, which can increase oiliness or cause inflammation," the expert added.

As the expert clarified, a cosmetologist can help select the right care based on the skin's condition. According to her, there are no universal procedures that suit everyone, but a combination of professional techniques and home care will yield the best results. Tatyana Machukha pointed out that at this age, for instance, lightweight cleansing procedures, moisturizing masks, or peels are popular. She emphasized that proper skincare after 18 is the key to its health and beauty in the future.

Recall that earlier we wrote about skin after 50: tips from a cosmetologist on how to maintain youth.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may impact your health. If you have any issues, please consult a specialist.