From the first step to the first pimple, parents are there for it all! Navigating skincare for your tweens and teens can be puzzling, even more so with the internet raving about a new viral product every week.
As children approach the 9-12 age range, their bodies begin to change, and so does their skin. Hormonal shifts often mean that traditional children’s products or simple soap-and-water routines may no longer suffice.
We will guide you through understanding your tween or teen’s skin type, choosing appropriate products, and establishing an effective routine!
Understanding their skin type
Identifying your tweenager/teenager’s skin type is crucial for developing an effective routine.
By understanding their skin and selecting appropriate products, you can help them achieve healthy skin. It is always recommended to let the experts play their role in identifying the skin type.
Generally, there are four main skin types:
1. Oily Skin
Oily skin may be indicated by a shiny appearance, large pores, and breakouts. To identify, use blotting paper on the T-zone. If it shows oil residue, or if the skin becomes shiny shortly after washing, it’s likely oily.
Product type recommendations:
- Lightweight or non-comedogenic
- Salicylic acid
- Succinic
- Clay or charcoal
2. Dry Skin:
Dry skin is characterized as flaky and tight, especially after cleansing. To identify, you can ask your kid if they feel tightening in the skin, especially during the colder months.
Product type recommendation:
- Moisturising or hydrating
- Low-foaming and gel-based cleansers
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Shea butter
3. Combination Skin:
Combination skin has a dual nature: an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) coupled with drier cheeks. To identify, look for shine in the T-zone while noting any dry or flaky areas on the cheeks.
Product type recommendations:
- Balancing and Multi-functional
- Niacinamide
- Gentle exfoliating ingredients, such as lactic acid
4. Sensitive Skin:
Sensitive skin often reacts with redness, itching, or burning sensations. To identify, observe how your teen’s skin responds to new products or environmental changes.
Products type recommendations:
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic-fragrances
- Gentle, non-irritating ingredients
Building a Basic Skincare Routine
Less is more! Tweens and teens should follow a simple 3-step routine:
- Cleanser: It is very important for tweens and teens to cleanse properly with active ingredients that effectively unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and fight spot-causing bacteria. The best acne cleanser for them will be a product that combines gentle ingredients with effective actives that target excess oil and spots.
- Moisturizer: A very important step, adding a moisturizer for tweens and teens, will not only help rehydrate skin after cleansing but will also help protect the skin. At night, introduce a more hydrating night cream to keep skin looking and feeling smooth, less irritated, and more moisturized.
- Sunscreen: It’s never too early to start your child on a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Try to find one that’s preferably SPF50 for the best sun protection.
Ingredients 101 for Healthy Skin
Let’s talk about the products and ingredients for various skin types:
To avoid:
Tweens and teens should avoid products containing:
- Retinol.
- Vitamin C.
- Alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids.
- Peptides
- Anti-aging or wrinkle-reducing products
- Brightening or firming products
- Exfoliating acids
- Chemical peels
To use:
Products containing the following ingredients can be effective for tweens and teens:
- Salicylic Acid
- Niacinamide
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Succinic Acid
- Azelaic Acid
- Jojoba Oil
Always patch-test new products and consult a dermatologist if you have concerns about your tween’s or teen’s skin.
At AAYNA, our world-renowned dermatologists will help you understand your kid’s needs. Schedule an appointment with us now!
Healthy Habits for Teens and Tweens
Along with an age-appropriate skincare routine, it is also essential to inculcate the following lifestyle habits into your tween’s and teen’s everyday routines:
- Balanced Diet: Encourage a diverse diet rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These nutrients are the building blocks for healthy, glowing skin.
- Hydration: Promote regular water intake throughout the day. Proper hydration supports skin elasticity and helps flush out toxins, contributing to a clearer complexion.
- Stress Management: Introduce stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. These practices can help mitigate stress-induced skin issues.
- Adequate Sleep: Emphasize the importance of quality sleep. During rest, the skin undergoes crucial regeneration and repair processes, promoting a fresh, radiant appearance.
FAQs
Q: At what age should my child start a skincare routine?
A: Most dermatologists recommend starting a basic routine around age 10-12, or when early signs of puberty appear.
Q: How often should teens wash their face?
A: Teens should wash their face twice daily—morning and night—to remove dirt, oil, and sweat. Overwashing can irritate the skin.
Q: Are acne products safe for tweens?
A: Mild, over-the-counter acne products with ingredients like salicylic acid are generally safe for tweens when used as directed.
Q: Should teens use anti-aging products?
A: No, teens don’t need anti-aging products. Focus on gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection for healthy skin.
Q: How important is sunscreen for young skin?
A: Sunscreen is crucial for all ages. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily to prevent sun damage and reduce future skin issues.
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