By Niki, clinical skin therapist since 2009
Skincare in your 20s doesn't need to be complicated. A gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and sun protection, used every day, is the routine that will look after your skin now and for years to come.
You don't need a drawer full of products. Here's what matters and what you can skip.
What skincare do I need in my 20s?
Just the basics:
Morning
- A gentle cleanser.
- A light moisturiser.
- Sun protection.
Night
- Cleanse to remove makeup, sunscreen and the day.
- A moisturiser or night cream.
That's it. Done every day, these few steps do more for your skin than a shelf full of trending products.
What's the biggest skincare mistake in your 20s?
In clinic, the most common thing I see in younger clients is doing too much. Social media makes it easy to stack acids, retinol, vitamin C and a new serum every week. Skin in your 20s often reacts by getting red, sensitive and breaking out more.
The good bacteria on your skin help keep its protective barrier healthy. Too many strong products upset that balance.
Think of your skin like an apple. The good bacteria on your skin help keep its natural protective barrier healthy, just like the skin on an apple protects what's underneath.
What should you skip in your 20s?
- Lots of strong actives at once. If you want to try one, add it slowly, one at a time.
- Harsh scrubs and squeaky-clean washes. They strip skin and can make breakouts worse.
- Sleeping in makeup. Always cleanse at night.
- Changing products every few weeks. Give each product a fair go before swapping.
What helps breakouts in your 20s?
Most breakouts come down to two things: blocked pores and bacteria. Gentle, consistent care usually helps more than harsh products. Cleanse twice a day, moisturise even if you're oily, and keep your hands off. If your breakouts are painful, deep or leaving marks, see your GP or a dermatologist.
What customers have found
"I've been using the complete set for nearly two weeks. It smells amazing and I've been really enjoying using it! BUT the best thing was I saw a friend a week after using it and she commented on how amazing my skin was looking. Well the only thing I'd done differently was introduce MiTru IQ skincare into my life! So stoked to find something that I enjoy using and has also glowing amazing results. My skin always feels soft and gently cleansed no stripping whatsoever!" Holly, verified buyer
Where does MiTruIQ™ fit in?
MiTruIQ™ is prebiotic, barrier-first skincare, made in New Zealand. Our Core Ritual is the routine I recommend most: three award-winning products in one simple, barrier-first routine, morning and night. It's suitable for all skin types, and both creams are light, so they suit oily skin too.
If you'd like to try us first, our Discovery Ritual is the same formulas in 15ml minis.
Read more on my page for keeping it simple, or see how prebiotics work.
Skincare in your 20s FAQs
Do I need retinol in my 20s?
Most people don't. If you want to try it for breakouts or texture, start low and slow, and keep the rest of your routine gentle.
Do I need a serum?
Not usually. A good cleanser and moisturiser cover the essentials.
Should I wash my face in the morning?
Yes, gently. A quick cleanse removes night cream and anything that's built up overnight.
Is it worth spending money on skincare in my 20s?
Spend it on the basics you'll use every day, not on lots of extras.
Not sure where to start?
Your skin isn't broken. It's stressed. Tell me what your skin is doing and I'll show you the routine I'd give you in clinic.
