Hey Lykkers! As teenagers, our skin undergoes a lot of changes, which is why having a skincare routine can feel like a puzzle. Recently, there's been an explosion of interest in skincare among younger consumers, largely thanks to social media.

Teens are flocking to skincare aisles, but should they really be using products designed for adult skin? And what's the best way to approach skincare at this stage in life?

In this article, we'll dive into the key elements of a teen skincare routine. We'll explore what products are truly beneficial, what to avoid, and how to build a simple, effective routine for youthful skin.

How to Choose the Right Skincare Products for Teens

One of the first steps in building an effective skincare routine for your teen is identifying their skin type. This will determine the products they should be using. Start by asking your teen a few questions: Does their skin break out often? Does their skin feel tight or dry? Is their face shiny with excess oil?

Depending on the answers, you'll know if their skin is dry, oily, or a mix of both. From there, you can find the right products tailored to their specific needs. For example, oily skin might benefit from gel-based moisturizers, while dry skin would require richer creams.

What to Focus on in a Teen Skincare Routine

Dr. Asha Shah, a medical director for Kenvue Skin Health, suggests keeping things simple: "Less is more." Teens should avoid overcomplicating their routine, as their skin is still developing. Dr. Shah advises a gentle approach with a mild cleanser, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) moisturizer, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Teens should steer clear of adult anti-aging skincare products, as these may damage their skin's protective barrier, leading to irritation, infections, and increased vulnerability to environmental damage such as sun exposure and pollution.

What Happens If Teens Use Anti-Aging Products?

Anti-aging products, while great for older skin, aren't ideal for teens. Julie Bianchini, Kenvue's manager for facial moisturizers and skin innovations, explains that ingredients like retinol, exfoliants, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, peptides, and others used in anti-aging treatments can actually cause irritation, redness, and even acne on teen skin. These ingredients are meant to address issues that don't typically arise until later in life, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

For teens, it's best to focus on keeping the skin clear and healthy rather than aiming for anti-aging benefits.

Dealing with Acne During the Teenage Years

Acne is a common skin concern for teens, primarily due to hormonal changes. As hormone levels increase, oil production ramps up, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. For acne-prone skin, over-the-counter products with ingredients like salicylic acid can help. Kenvue's Deep Cleanse Cleanser, for instance, works well for acne-prone skin as it gently removes oil and impurities without leaving the skin dry or stripping its natural moisture barrier.

However, if acne becomes severe, it's always best to consult a dermatologist who can recommend the right treatment. They can suggest topical products or even systemic medications, depending on the severity of the breakouts.

Can Teen Skincare Prevent Early Signs of Aging?

Although every skin matures over time, there's one essential product that can help prevent signs of aging from an early age: sunscreen. Dr. Bianchini emphasizes that sunscreen is critical for teens, no matter their skin tone. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays that cause aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer.

Incorporating sunscreen into a daily skincare routine can make a huge difference in preventing early signs of aging. Teenagers should develop safe sun habits, such as reapplying sunscreen every two hours, wearing protective hats, and seeking shade when the sun is strongest (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Should Teens Use Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a skincare trend that involves using two different types of cleansers, typically one to remove makeup and another to deeply cleanse the skin. But for teens, this step isn't a must—it depends on personal preference. If your teen wears makeup or sunscreen daily, double cleansing might be useful to ensure their skin is completely clean. The first cleanse can be with a gentle makeup remover or micellar water, and the second should be a soothing cleanser, like Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser.

However, if your teen doesn't wear makeup, a simple one-step cleansing routine may be all they need.

The Ideal Skincare Routine for Teens

A basic, effective skincare routine for teens doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, a simple 2-3 step routine can meet their needs. Here's a suggested routine:

1. Cleanse: Use a mild, non-drying cleanser both morning and night.

2. Moisturize: In the morning, apply a lightweight moisturizer followed by sunscreen. At night, use a richer moisturizer to keep skin hydrated while they sleep.

3. Sunscreen: Make sunscreen a daily habit, no matter the weather. This helps protect the skin from long-term damage and premature aging.

Conclusion

Lykkers, maintaining a simple skincare routine as a teen is key to keeping skin healthy and clear. Focusing on hydration, gentle cleansing, and sun protection will go a long way. Avoiding harsh anti-aging products and unnecessary steps will help prevent skin irritation and other issues.

What steps do you think should be a part of a teen's skincare routine? Feel free to share your thoughts and tips with us! Let's all make sure to keep our skin glowing at every age!