10 anti ageing tips for your 20s according to experts: Daily gua sha massage to facial acupuncture for collagen

If you want to minimise the signs of ageing, you need to master a few habits early on. Ahead, you'll find the secrets to maintaining a youthful glow.

In their 20s, people think they're never going to age and that they're invincible. But that is when you really need to develop good habits that will last you a lifetime. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Jasmine Modi, acupuncturist and founder of Acushastra Pvt Ltd said that your 20s are a great time to establish a consistent routine to prevent premature ageing and protect your skin for the long haul.

She said, “Ageing is inevitable, but premature ageing isn’t. The choices you make in your 20s shape how gracefully you age. As an Acupuncturist and Cosmetic Acupuncturist, I believe in a holistic, inside-out approach to youthful skin and long-term vitality,” adding, “Ageing gracefully starts with preventative care — and your 20s are the best time to begin. Invest in mindful habits today for a radiant tomorrow.”

Dr Zara Dadi, medical cosmetologist, aesthetician, and anti-ageing specialist also told HT Lifestyle that she ‘always tells her patients prevention and delaying is better than cure’. She said, “Ageing is a natural process, but taking steps early can help maintain youthful skin and overall health. While wrinkles and fine lines may not be visible in your 20s, the habits you develop now will determine how well your skin ages in the future.”

She added, “Starting an anti-aging routine in your 20s ensures healthier, younger-looking skin for years to come. By focusing on prevention now, you’ll thank yourself later.”

Here are some anti-ageing tips tailored for your 20s, according to Dr Zara Dadi and Jasmine Modi:

1. Facial acupuncture for collagen boost

Jasmine said, "Facial acupuncture naturally stimulates collagen production, improves circulation, and prevents fine lines—keeping your skin firm and radiant."

2. Balance your Qi for ageless skin

According to Jasmine, stress, poor digestion, and imbalanced Qi accelerate ageing in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). "Acupuncture and herbal remedies restore harmony, reducing inflammation and promoting youthful energy," she said.

3. Prioritise sleep between 10 pm–2 am

"Your skin repairs itself during these golden hours. Acupressure on the yintang (forehead) and kidney 3 (ankle) points enhances deep, restorative sleep," Jasmine added.

4. Nourish your skin from within

Jasmine said, "Eat collagen-rich foods like bone broth, sesame seeds, and walnuts. Hydrate with goji berry tea to replenish skin elasticity."

5. Protect and rejuvenate with gua sha, acupressure

Daily gua sha massage and acupressure improve lymphatic drainage, sculpt the face, and prevent sagging over time, Jasmine added.

6. Sun protection is key

Dr Zara Dadi said, “The sun is the biggest culprit behind premature aging. Exposure to UV rays causes collagen breakdown, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.” She added using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day — regardless of the weather — prevents sun damage and keeps your skin looking youthful.

7. Hydration and a healthy diet

Drinking enough water keeps your skin plump and hydrated, according to Dr Dadi, who said, “A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats helps combat free radicals, which accelerate aging. Include foods like berries, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish to nourish your skin from within.”

8. Skincare routine with active ingredients

“A proper skincare routine is essential. Use a gentle cleanser, a hydrating moisturiser, and sunscreen in the morning. At night, incorporate retinol or peptides to boost collagen production. Vitamin C serums can also help brighten your skin and protect against environmental damage,” Dr Dadi said.

9. Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep increases stress hormones, leading to dull skin and early signs of ageing, Dr Dadi said. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep to allow your skin to repair and regenerate overnight, she added.

10. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol

“Smoking and alcohol consumption accelerate aging by depleting moisture and reducing collagen levels. Avoiding these habits can help maintain your skin’s elasticity and radiance,” Dr Dadi said.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.