Last Updated on October 6, 2025
With every birthday, we tend to look back – sometimes with pride, other times cringing at the choices that shaped us. Beauty is no exception. The fads we embraced, the products we skipped, the skincare steps we ignored… hindsight really is 20/20.
If I could send a message to my younger self, these are the lessons I’d pass on – part wisdom, part warning, and all designed to help you glow a little smarter.
“Less really is more, especially when you start early. Treatments like Botox and fillers are about keeping things natural and low-maintenance as you age.”
— Diane Howard, RN Phoenix Botox
- Tattoos Are (Mostly) Forever
Body art can be stunning, but it’s not always as timeless as we think at twenty. A sudden change in taste, a rushed design, or even a spelling mistake can easily turn self-expression into regret. Yes, laser removal exists, but it’s not an instant fix. Expect at least 6–12 sessions, a decent investment, oh and the best bit – its sometimes even more painful than the initial tattoo so expect some discomfort along the way.
Laser Tattoo machines are powerful pieces of technology is clever – lasers break tattoo pigment into particles that the body naturally flushes out but it’s not pain-free. Translation? Make sure your ink is something you’ll want to keep as much as the memory behind it.
- Sunscreen Isn’t Optional
I know the allure of bronzed skin – but here’s the fact: around 80% of visible ageing is caused by UV exposure. That means fine lines, dark spots, and loss of elasticity often come from the sun, not genetics.
The truth is, tanning now means faster ageing later. Daily SPF (30+ at minimum, ideally 50) is a non-negotiable – even if you don’t plan on being outside. The sun’s ray’s can penetrate windows so it best to just get in the daily habit of applying it as your last step in your skincare routine.
Luckily, today’s formulas are lightweight and often built right into BB creams or tinted moisturisers, so it’s easier than ever to make sunscreen your most reliable beauty product.
- Laser Hair Removal Will Save You Years
If I could go back in time, I’d tell myself to ditch the endless waxing and constant shaving and go straight for laser. Six to eight sessions can mean smoother skin for years, with minimal upkeep.
Laser hair removal machines work by targeting hair follicles with light energy, stopping regrowth in its tracks. The result? Less irritation, fewer ingrown hairs, and no more last-minute wax appointments. Compared to the sting of a Brazilian, laser feels like a blessing.
- Step Away From the Pimple
We’ve all done it: leaned into the mirror and popped a spot, only to regret it days later. Picking doesn’t just prolong breakouts, it can also leave scars and pigmentation that last MUCH longer.
For acne scarring, treatments like microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy) are a lifesaver. By creating micro-injuries in the skin with a micro needle pen or skin needling device, microneedling triggers collagen production, helping to soften fine lines, fill in pitted scars, and even out texture. Younger me? Hands off. Let the pros – and your body’s natural healing do the heavy lifting.
- Skincare Is a Long Game
My younger self saw skincare as a jumble of impulse buys and bathroom shelf clutter. What I wish I knew: a simple, consistent routine beats out everything else. A cleanser, serum, moisturiser, and daily SPF form the foundation.
Even better? Seek professional advice early. A dermatologist or dermal therapist can tailor recommendations to your exact skin type, saving you years of trial and error. Good products are an investment, not a splurge.
- Confidence Is the Best Glow-Up
Above all, beauty is less about products and more about perspective. Every shape, shade, and size has its own beauty – and learning to appreciate your uniqueness is the ultimate secret.
Comparison is a thief of joy, and no cream or laser can replace the radiance that comes from self-acceptance. Confidence really is the best filter you’ll ever wear.
- Don’t Skip Sleep…It Shows on Your Skin
When we’re young, it feels easy to run on late nights, minimal rest, and plenty of caffeine. But what I didn’t realise is how quickly a lack of sleep shows up on the skin. Dark circles, dullness, and slower cell renewal are just the beginning – chronic sleep deprivation can also accelerate fine lines and weaken your skin barrier.
Your body does its best repair work overnight, releasing growth hormones that help with collagen production. In other words: beauty sleep isn’t just a cliché, it’s a genuine skincare essential. Younger me, put down the phone and go to bed earlier – your skin (and your mood) will thank you.
- Less Really Is More
Back then, I believed more products meant better results. I layered serums, masks, oils, and toners like my bathroom was a mini department store. But in reality, overloading your skin can do more harm than good – stripping your barrier, causing irritation, and confusing your routine.
What I’ve since learned is that skincare thrives on simplicity and consistency. A handful of well-chosen products, tailored to your skin type, will outperform a 10-step routine that doesn’t match your needs. Younger me, save your money and your skin – quality beats quantity every time.
Final Word
If I could whisper in my younger self’s ear, I’d say this: choose tattoos wisely, protect your skin with SPF, invest in laser hair removal early, stop picking at pimples, and stick to a routine that works. But most importantly, love the skin you’re in….because confidence never goes out of style.
Your beauty journey is ongoing, and the smartest choices you make today are the ones your future self will thank you for tomorrow.
