Skincare Routines for Teens

Credibility: Many TikTok users who share skincare advice are not dermatologists, cosmetic scientists or skincare professionals.

Often, they are people trying to grow their audiences, get free stuff from brands or sell stuff for brands. While they may have personal experiences, their advice is likely biased, is unlikely to be based on scientific evidence and it definitely not tailored to your skin, budget and needs.

Fads and Trends: TikTok is known for quickly popularising trends, which can often lead to the over-use of certain products or ingredients.

These trends can be harmful if not used correctly or in moderation. Over-exfoliation, shunning the use of sunscreen and slugging are just a few trends which, at best, can really mess up your skin barrier, at worst, can cause actual, real harm.

They are not you, you are not them: Everyone's skin is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another.

TikTok advice might not address your specific skin concerns or sensitivities. Having an actual skin professional to guide you on not only getting a set of products and routine that works for you and your lifestyle, but also, being on hand to guide you through potential side effects and help you reach your longer term skin goals, is a real game changer.

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So, what should a typical teen skincare routine look like?

The basics are the same when it comes to skincare, regardless of age.

Gentle Cleanser: There are a huge range of cleansers. Gel, foam, balm, oil, cream, micellar. Ideally, you want a cleanser that isn’t expensive…as you wash most of it down the drain and is suited to your skin type.

If you’re on the oily side, a foaming cleanser containing salicylic acid might be best. If your skin is dry, a cream, balm or oil cleanser might work better for you. Brands like Cetaphil and Cerave have a good range of cleansers that are often recommended by dermatologists.

Be gentle with your skin. You don’t need to scrub and scour. Let the cleanser do the job of cleansing by massaging it into the skin for about a minute then rinse with lukewarm water and a clean flannel.

When? AM & PM

Moisturiser: Even those with oily skin should moisturise regularly. A lightweight moisturiser can help to hydrate your skin without clogging pores. Sometimes the simplest moisturisers are the best. Look for one with ceramides, which help maintain the skin barrier and prevent water loss from the surface of the skin. Again, brands like Cetaphil and Cerave have a great range of affordable moisturisers.

When? AM & PM

SPF: Protecting your skin from the sun is essential for preventing premature ageing and reducing the risk of skin cancer. This step is a non-negotiable. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF30 or higher that’s suited to your skin type. La Roche Posay has an extensive range of SPFs for all skin types.

Consistency is key when it comes to real changes in skin. A solid routine, done every single day, will deliver improvements. By starting with a simple, but effective skincare routine, your teen is building great, long term skincare habits.

When? AM

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My teen has acne, what do they need?

There are a few key ingredients to look for in skincare for anyone prone to breakouts or acne. These are readily available in products you can pick up on your local high street or even in your supermarket shop.

• Salicylic Acid: This ingredient helps to unclog pores and exfoliate the skin - look out for this in cleansers and moisturisers.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: This ingredient kills bacteria that contribute to acne - Acnecide (which you can buy in Boots) have a great range of products, from washes to topical creams with benzoyl peroxide in them. Go carefully with this ingredient, as it can lead to dryness and irritation if you over do it.
• Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient is a powerful humectant that helps to hydrate the skin. It’s great as a serum applied to the skin before a moisturiser for an added boost of hydration. It can be really great to help counteract some of the dryness often associated with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
• Niacinamide: This ingredient can help to reduce redness, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation. If you’re a picker and you get left with marks after the spot has gone, this ingredient is your friend.

Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with a skincare professional if you have persistent or severe skin issues. They can provide personalised advice and recommend products that are right for you. They can also support you through any side effects you experience. If you’re looking for someone in your area, head to Glowday.com and book a Skincare Consultation.

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