Skincare products for teens

What should you buy first?

Noncomedogenic means designed not to clog pores. Teens prone to acne can also choose oil free sunscreen and makeup. Bright packaging and fun product names can attract attention, but neither is a skin need. Start with the products that do a useful job rather than buying a matching collection.134

Why does skin change during the teen years?

Hormonal changes during puberty increase sebum, the natural oil made by skin's oil glands. Excess oil and dead skin cells can block hair follicles, the openings where hair grows, and cause spots. Bacteria in those blocked follicles can contribute to inflammation and pus. That explains why a routine that suited a younger child sometimes needs adjusting during adolescence: new oiliness or acne needs attention, not an entire adult skincare routine.45

How should teens use the products?

1. 1Cleanse gently. For oily skin, wash up to twice daily and after sweating. Do not scrub, including when removing makeup.
2. 2Apply moisturizer after cleansing. Oily skin still needs hydration; trying to dry it out with a harsh wash can irritate skin and increase oil production.
3. 3Use sunscreen daily, and wear it outdoors. Shade and protective clothing, such as a wide brimmed hat, give additional protection.
4. 4At night, remove all makeup before going to sleep and cleanse gently. Follow with moisturizer.

Dry or sensitive skin can need less washing: cleansing once in the evening can be enough. Choose fragrance free products because added scents can trigger irritation or allergic reactions. Moisturizing regularly helps relieve dryness and itchiness, so do not replace moisturizer with more cleansing.2

What helps oily skin without more washing?

Blotting papers absorb surface oil during the day. Press a paper gently against the face for a few seconds rather than rubbing it, which spreads oil around. If you wear makeup, oil free, water based products are suitable options, and products labelled matte can reduce shine. Avoid oil based or alcohol based cleansers, which can irritate skin. More force is not a better cleaning method; scrubbing can make irritated skin look worse.3

Which products help teen acne?

Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are options for acne, rather than extras every teen needs. Benzoyl peroxide is a commonly used, effective acne medicine. Salicylic acid appears in acne cleansers, toners, spot treatments and medicated pads. Both can cause dryness and irritation, so retain a gentle daily moisturizer. Ask a pharmacist about an appropriate acne treatment; for a younger teen or sensitive skin, a dermatologist can help decide whether an active ingredient is suitable.26

If acne has not improved after a few months of shop bought treatment, see a dermatologist. Get help sooner if breakouts leave dark marks or scars. Prescription treatments include retinoids such as adapalene and tretinoin, which reduce inflammation and oiliness and help prevent spots. These are acne medicines, not a reason to add an anti aging retinol serum to every teen's routine.26

Which products should teens skip?

Healthy young skin does not need products aimed at wrinkles, sagging or other adult skin concerns, despite the industry's willingness to sell it homework. Younger skin is more delicate and sensitive to irritants, although skin becomes more resilient after puberty. Strong acids, peels and retinol can cause irritation rather than provide a useful everyday benefit. A clinician chosen acne treatment is different from using these ingredients simply because they appear in an influencer's routine.17

Avoid rough scrubs such as apricot kernel or walnut shell scrubs, which can damage and inflame skin. Essential oils are not automatically gentle because they are natural; some can trigger allergic reactions or sensitivity to sunlight. A mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is an option for young, sensitive skin. Occasional sheet masks for fun are different from daily use: their many ingredients make frequent application more likely to irritate.7

How do you introduce a new product?

Introduce one new product at a time so you can check whether skin tolerates it. For sensitive skin, try a small amount on a limited area before applying it to the whole face. If a product causes irritation, stop using it or reduce use. Skin that keeps reacting to shop bought products needs a dermatologist's assessment rather than more experiments.23

When is it time to see a doctor?

• Get medical help for lots of spots, deep painful lumps, scarring or acne that is not improving with treatment.
• See a doctor for hot, swollen, red skin that could indicate infection. Redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin.
• Ask for help if acne affects mood, confidence or everyday life. Emotional distress is a reason to seek treatment.
• Discuss skin concerns with your GP if you use hormonal contraception, because it can affect acne.
• Do not pick or squeeze spots, because doing so can cause scars.

How can parents help with product choices?

Talk about what each product is for and what it costs, rather than treating a friend's routine as a shopping list. Some influencers are paid to show their skincare routines, so the bathroom tour can also be an advert. Help teens read packages and choose products for actual needs. Occasional experimentation with friends is different from feeling compelled to perform a routine. Step in if skincare starts interfering with schoolwork, sleep or friendships, and discuss the concern without making the teen feel bad about their interest.17