As a parent, I know you want the best for your child, and that includes their skin. I get many questions about tween and teen skin, because, like you, I have a teen!
I am very aware of (and frustrated by) the crazy ‘hacks’ and recommendations that our children are being bombarded with via social media and friends, so I wanted to clear up a few things and make it simple for us and our precious little people.
As a teenager, your child’s skin goes through many changes, and it can be difficult to know how to properly care for it. In this guide, I will provide tips and tricks on how to establish a consistent skincare routine, choose the right products, maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, and be patient with the changes happening in their skin.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to establish a consistent but simple skincare routine for your child that includes cleansing, moisturising and protecting their skin from the sun.
Encourage them to cleanse their skin twice a day, in the morning and at night, to remove any dirt, oil, and makeup that has built up on their skin throughout the day.
Make sure they moisturise after cleansing to keep their skin hydrated and healthy.
And finally, remind them to use sunscreen daily to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. I have bought my daughter a moisturiser that doubles up as a moisturiser and SPF.
Now, alot of advice out there will encourage your child to exfoliate their skin, which, if they have acne breakouts or alot of congestion this might be appropriate but for most young teen skin I dont believe it’s required. At least not until a consistent cleansing routine is established – this might be all thats needed.
I do encourage my daughter to use a clean flannel each day to ensure all her cleanser is removed which will have a exfoliating effect, kind-of. But of course a regular flannel isnt OK with her so she uses this ‘Magic’ Cleanser.
If you believe their skin is very congested and they get multiple breakouts regularly, a gentle exfoliator might well be needed once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Think of a clay mask or cleanser or something gentle with salicylic acid in it, which can be applied to the congested area only. Then always moisturise afterwards.
When choosing skincare products for your child, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients they contain. Many over-the-counter products contain harsh chemicals that can be damaging to their skin.
Instead, guide them to choose gentle, natural, and non-comedogenic products that are specifically formulated for teenage skin.
Avoid the ‘Clear-Skin’ ‘Anti-spot’ products we used to buy when we were their age… They can cause absolute havoc with a young healthy skin.
A healthy diet and lifestyle can also play a big role in maintaining healthy skin for your child. Encourage them to eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables to nourish their skin from the inside out.
Remind them to drink plenty of plain water to keep their skin hydrated, and avoid fizzy drinks and those terrible energy drinks.
And I casually discourage smoking, vaping and alcohol consumption, by mentioing that they make you get really spotty, smelly and turn your skin yellow – which disgusts my daughter currently, and long may it continue!
Lastly, it’s important to be patient and understanding with the changes that are happening in your child’s skin.
Acne and other skin issues are a common part of adolescence and can be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that they are a normal part of the process. If your child’s skin issues persist or become severe, it’s important to not only take their concerns seriously (keep them talking), but also visit your GP or book a dermatology consultation with me.
In conclusion, taking care of teenage skin requires a consistent skincare routine, using appropriate products, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, and being patient with the changes happening in their skin. By following these tips, your child’s teenage skin can be healthy and radiant.
I hope this article has been helpful. If you’d like to ask any questions do email me: louise@theskinnurse.co.uk or find me on Instagram @theskinnurseuk
I plan to write more on this subject, for example about popping spots or not, and I will write out the products I get for my daugter with links and what i’d suggest for your child.
Best Wishes
Louise, Dermatology Nurse and teen Mum!