In today’s fast-paced world, people are prioritizing self-care more than ever before, and living a soft life is the goal, with Generation Z leading the charge. With thousands of beauty and skincare tips on their social media pages, this generation has unlimited access to education on the importance of implementing routines, and making time for skincare is high on their list.

In fact, more than one-third of Gen Z participants spend an average of $21 to $50 on a single skincare product. The study also found that Generation Z is the top consumer of skincare products of all generations that participated in the study, outnumbering Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers.

When it comes to skincare and overall skin health, there is much to learn from Gen Z and their commitment to healthy practices for their skin. From prioritizing the use of sunscreen lotion to staying hydrated and more, there is room to adopt similar practices from these young adults. 

Sunscreen Is Your Best Friend: Fight UV Ray Exposure

When it comes to your skin health and daily skincare routine, wearing sunscreen or moisturizer with SPF is critical because exposure to UV rays is an environmental risk factor for melanoma and other types of cancer. Protecting your skin is key, and using sunscreen and SPF moisturizers isn’t just for days at the beach or special occasions where you’ll be exposed to more sun. According to Maureen Hewitt, MD, Hematology/Oncology, Chester County Hospital, it’s an everyday essential that should be implemented into your routine (including on winter days). “You should choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and if you spend a lot of time outdoors, pick a product with SPF 60 or greater,” said Hewitt.

Aside from being a risk factor for skin cancer, daily exposure to UV rays also increases your risk for aging your skin. Photodamage, which is damage the sun does to skin, can be caused by chronic sun exposure and UV radiation. It can show up as wrinkles, sagging, and pigmented spots, which can all play a role in aging your skin. As you build your skincare routine lineup, ask yourself, “What would Gen Z do?” and don’t skimp on the sunscreen.

Less Is More: Keep Your Skincare Routine Simple

Cleansers and toners and serums, oh my! With so many skincare brands and dozens of product options to choose from, it may be overwhelming to determine where to begin. But keeping your routine simple and consistent is best for overall skin health. Dermatologists recommend a few essential steps in your skincare routine: cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin from the sun.

The next time you’re at your favorite retailer or are online shopping for products for your skincare regimen, don’t let the countless options of creams, masks, and peels overstimulate you. Consider taking a more minimalist approach to keep your skin happy and healthy.

Clean Beauty Matters: Choose Wisely

Generation Z is passionate about clean beauty and prioritizes using products free from harmful chemicals and unnecessary additives. A recent study found that 76 percent of Gen Z participants answered “yes” when asked if they specifically plan to buy beauty products in the future that are “clean.”

From paraben-free hair care to skincare products with simple ingredients, this segment of shoppers is opting for more natural products, and other generations should consider following suit. Natural anti-aging compounds, such as vitamins, hydroxy-acids, and many others, can play a crucial role in skincare.

Hydration Is Key: Drink Up!

When it comes to prioritizing your skin health, it’s important to note that healthy skin starts from within. While implementing a daily skincare routine can help you reach your goal of having healthy skin, ensure you’re also focusing on your diet and prioritizing a healthy water intake. 

Hewitt also stresses the importance of hydration. “Drinking enough water is crucial for healthy skin, keeping you hydrated from the inside out,” she said. “Hydrated skin is less prone to dryness, dullness, and irritation. Keep your H2O handy and get the recommended intake of 9-13 cups (8 oz) of water each day.”

Don’t Forget About Mental Health: Mind-Body Connection

When understanding how healthy skin starts from within, you must focus on this holistically and consider the health of your mind, body, and soul. This is another area where Generation Z gets it, making their mental health a top priority. 

A 2023 survey found that of more than 1,000 Gen Z and Millennial survey participants, 93 percent said they are hoping to improve their mental health in 2024. They know that poor mental health can wreak havoc on their skin, and stress is widely thought to trigger acne, among other skin issues like dryness.

Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, getting enough sleep, or prioritizing therapy, a healthy mind can lead to healthier skin.

The Importance of Regular Exercise: Sweat It Out

Exercise isn’t just good for your body — it’s good for your skin too! Breaking a sweat can help remove toxins from your body through your pores, which can lead to healthier skin. Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or practicing yoga, staying active can play an essential role in your skincare routine.

Additionally, when you exercise, you work your heart muscles, which fuel blood and oxygen circulation that lasts even when you’re no longer exercising. Your body’s cells, including skin cells, are replenished by this blood flow, which can lead to more effective cellular replacement and improved skin as a result.

Get Your Beauty Sleep: Rest and Repair

Beauty sleep is real. Lack of rest can lead to dark circles, skin dehydration, and other issues, so prioritizing a full night of sleep can play an important role in your overall skincare. Make sure you’re not only focusing on practicing your skincare regimen daily but getting your full eight hours of sleep, too!

When it comes to looking and feeling your best, think like Gen Z and make time for your skin health every day to help reduce your risk of skin cancer, slow down aging, reduce dark spots, and more.

Learn more at Chester County Hospital. Chester County Hospital, part of Penn Medicine, is dedicated to the health and well-being of the people in Chester County and the surrounding areas.