You have a wonderful opportunity at 24 to really age well. 14 years ago you were 10 – I bet it doesn’t seem that long ago. In another 14 years you’ll be close to 40. What you do in the meantime will make a difference. It’s possible to look less well if you’re stressed and worried, then bounce back with a bit of tlc. The body can be pretty miraculous.
Find a good SPF 50 you’re happy to wear every day (doesn’t cause breakouts, can be worn with your make up, etc.), including one for round your eyes (e.g. LRP).
If you smoke, stop now. Twin studies show that even smoking for a couple of years during youth make a huge difference to how you look for the rest of your life. It’s a certainty that you are making yourself look older than you would have, whether you can see the damage yet or not.
Don’t assume any damage caused by unhealthy lifestyle (diet, smoking, tanning) now can be repaired – there is no certainty in cosmetic procedures and not everyone responds well to anti ageing products.
Moderate your drinking. Regularly drinking alcohol is one of the worst things you can do for your skin, and it can 100% affect your appearance as early as your mid 20s. I know people late 20s who look seriously rough and haggard as a result of drinking, and the damage is irreparable (not just ‘spider veins’ or red skin – gaunt face, bags under eyes, slack skin, etc.). If you do enjoy drinking have days off in between for your body to recover.
Drink lots of water – it sounds wishy washy but really makes a difference.
Exercise – regular cardio will make a huge difference to how you look and is probably one of the best things you can do for your skin. It literally strengthens your cell DNA. It will also help you handle stress.
Nutrition – again, sounds wishy washy but your diet will make a huge difference to how you age. Sugar destroys collagen while vegetables & good nutrition will keep you looking young.
Look after your teeth – in your 40s your gums recede and if you’ve not been looking after them they will start to fall out.
All that said, as you get older you do have to come to terms with ageing, and it’s something you just learn to accept. You have to learn to enjoy life and appreciate what’s really important – the people you share it with and the impact you make with your words and actions. It’s possible to age well, however your appearance will not be the be all and end all. You are much more than just the skin on your cheeks and a smile is the most attractive thing you can wear. Find enough meaning and purpose in life and connection with others that you glow from the inside and your looks become trivial.
Right now it sounds like you need a bit of looking after – so be kind to yourself and don’t worry about not looking your best while you’re under stress. Having a laugh with friends or looking after someone else will make you feel much better than having perfectly contoured cheeks or flawless skin does.