Skincare for teens: Too much of a good thing? A guide for parents

For teenagers, taking care of their skin is a crucial step in growing up. But these days, teens are exposed to a lot of fad advice on social media about skincare. As parents and caregivers, it’s important to guide your teens toward reliable information and products that truly benefit their skin, avoiding those that might do more harm than good.

This guide offers skincare tips tailored specifically for teens, addressing common concerns and helping parents ensure their teens are thinking critically about their skincare routines.

Understanding teenage skin

The teenage years often introduce a variety of skin issues. Acne is one of the most common skin issues faced by teenagers. Hormonal changes during puberty can increase sebum production, leading to clogged pores and the development of pimples, blackheads and whiteheads.

Additionally, teens may experience oily skin, dryness or a combination of both, which can complicate their skincare routine. It's important for teens to understand that these changes are normal and temporary.

"During puberty, pre-teens and teens experience hormonal changes," said Rachel J. McAndrew, MD, dermatologist on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White – Austin. “Acne develops by a combination of plugging of the hair follicle with dead skin cells, excess sebum production (which is driven by hormones) and bacteria. With the hormonal fluctuations seen in adolescence, it is common to see the emergence of acne.”

What’s the right skincare for teens?

"There is no one-size-fits-all approach to skincare,” Dr. McAndrew said. “I would exercise caution in believing what social media influencers may be recommending. A basic skincare routine might include a gentle cleanser twice daily, a morning moisturizer with SPF 30+ and a gentle evening moisturizer."

Here are a couple of important factors to consider when choosing the best skincare for teens:

• Avoid harsh chemicals and irritants: Teens often have sensitive skin, so it's crucial to avoid products with harsh chemicals and irritants. These can cause redness, dryness and irritation. Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products to minimize the risk of skin reactions.
• Read skincare labels: Understanding skincare labels can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to know what you're putting on your skin. Pay attention to the order of ingredients listed, as they are in descending order of concentration. This helps determine if the product contains a high concentration of beneficial ingredients.

Simple skincare routine for teens

By incorporating simple steps into their daily regimen, teens can achieve the clear complexion they desire, while keeping it simple.

"I think it’s important for teenagers to be in charge of their own skincare routine,” Dr. McAndrew said. “I typically provide a written step-by-step guide for people to follow and ask them to tape it to their bathroom mirror as a reminder. That said, if someone seems to struggle with remembering to follow their routine, I often advise them to try setting a daily alarm as a reminder and to do their routine an hour or two before bed."

Here are three key elements to consider when building a skincare routine:

• Cleansing: Start by cleansing the face with a gentle cleanser formulated for your skin type. This removes dirt, oil and impurities, preventing clogged pores and breakouts.
• Moisturizing and hydrating:Hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, regardless of skin type. After cleansing, apply a lightweight moisturizer that suits your skin's needs. Moisturizers help replenish and lock in moisture, keeping the skin soft and supple. Look for non-comedogenic and oil-free moisturizers to avoid clogging pores.
• Sun protection:Protecting the skin from harmful UV rays is vital for reducing the risk of skin cancer. Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before heading outdoors, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, especially if sweating or swimming. Wearing protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, provides extra defense against the sun's rays.

Dealing with teenage acne-prone skin

Teenage acne is a common skin condition that can cause frustration and self-consciousness. Understanding the causes of acne is essential in preventing and managing breakouts effectively.

"I often recommend an over-the-counter face wash with salicylic acid as a good starting point,” Dr. McAndrew said. “If that's not helping or the breakouts are severe or bothersome, I recommend seeing your primary care physician or a board-certified dermatologist to discuss treatment options."

To prevent and manage breakouts, the skincare routine suggested earlier is a great place for teens to start. First, cleanse the face twice a day with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh products, as they can irritate the skin and worsen acne. After cleansing, apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.

A few key things to consider:

• Avoid touching the face and picking at acne lesions, as this can introduce more bacteria and lead to scarring.
• Keep hair clean and away from the face, as oils and styling products can contribute to breakouts.
• Be mindful about what you’re eating: low-fat dairy and foods with a high glycemic index (such as sugary desserts and white breads) may contribute to acne breakouts.

Skin health over skin craze

It is possible to have too much of a good thing.

"Using products that are too harsh (too drying or too oily) can lead to irritation in the skin,” Dr. McAndrew said. “You may notice worsening of eczema-like rashes or of acne-like breakouts if you are 'overdoing it.'"

There have also been instances where social media influencers have suggested basic household items to help with skincare. Dr. McAndrew cautions teens against using any harsh acids, which may be overly drying and irritating and against using kitchen products that are not formulated for the skin.

But in the end, overall skin health is essential. And it goes beyond the products you use:

• What you eat directly impacts the condition of your skin. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins provides your body with the necessary nutrients to support skin health.
• Regular exercise also plays a significant role in skincare. Exercise increases blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells. Just make sure to shower after exercise to minimize breakouts from sweat.
• Managing stress is another important aspect of maintaining healthy skin. Stress can trigger various skin issues, such as acne breakouts, eczema flare-ups and premature aging. Finding healthy ways to cope with stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques or engaging in hobbies, can greatly improve the condition of your skin.

Beyond skincare

Parents and teens alike know that there is increasing pressure on today's teens to look and act a certain way, fueled in large part by social media.

“When a teen seems particularly fixated on how they look, I work with them to help normalize the issues they’re concerned about to allow them to see that everyone’s skin and body is different and to love themselves for who they are,” Dr. McAndrew said.

Our expert dermatologists are here to help you navigate the best options for your teen's skin health. Find a dermatologist near you today.