Teen Skincare Routine and Essentials

Teen skincare needs to answer for the unpredictability that comes with this age. Wild fluctuations in dryness, oiliness, spots, and everything else can break havoc on skin texture. 

Having glowing, healthy skin all comes down to knowing the right routines and beauty products tailored for young skin.

Suddenly experiencing troublesome skin?

Entering puberty marks the start of the battle with skin problems for many. What’s important to remember is that this is 100% normal—but you can impact the future condition of your skin, with the right care during your teen years.

The main cause of troublesome skin in your teens is the rapid hormonal changes that make the skin’s sebaceous glands work even harder. These glands begin to produce more sebum, which can result in clogged pores, blackheads, and oily skin. It can also lead to inflammation and the formation of acne.

The best beauty products for teen skin

Some of the best products for teenage skin are those that are specifically designed for it. Skincare products for teens are a great start and can help you fight against your blemishes—and win! But in order for them to be effective, you’ll want to choose the right products for you.

Start by checking out skincare products that are targeted toward young skin. Many products marketed to teens contain substances that remove excess sebum, unclog pores and minimize acne. Keep an eye out for ingredients like tea tree, witch hazel, green tea, and salicylic acid.

But what specifically will you need in your skincare arsenal? Well, that’ll depend on exactly what type of skin you have and what your problem areas are. But it’s pretty safe to assume you can’t go wrong with a cleanser, toner, and a spot treatment product. If the options overwhelm you, there’s always the option of buying a multi-step set that contains products from the same line.

Keeping your skin moisturized is the key for adolescence and beyond. Read more about how to achieve glowing skin here. When selecting a moisturizer or face cream, always go for one with an SPF filter. If you have dry to normal skin with occasional issues, go for a hydrating or soothing cream. For teens with combination to oily skin, try out a formula that’s both moisturizing and mattifying.

When it comes to makeup, light coverage cosmetics work best. By using lightweight formulas, you’ll experience fewer clogged pores and blackheads. As with skincare, avoid using makeup that has harsh ingredients and fragrances. Instead, explore your choices of their hypoallergenic or plant-based counterparts.

Caring for and maintaining teen skin

As with adult skin types, teen skin can vary from person to person. However, most teens have combination skin—which is both dry and oily at the same time. In combination skin, the skin on the cheeks is often dry, while the T-zone appears greasy. Because of the overproduction of sebum on the T-zone, it becomes the perfect breeding ground for blackheads and acne.

Soap matters

But regardless of what type of skin you have, the basis is thorough cleansing. Don’t use ordinary soap! It’s important to use a cleansing gel or foam designed for the face. Otherwise, you risk changing the pH of your skin. The skin is acidic to prevent bacteria from entering it, and regular soap cannot only make it more alkaline but also strip the skin of its protective layer.

Additionally, calcium compounds found in soap can contribute to clogging the pores. The best cleansers are those that create a foaming effect when combined with water, which will gently clean the skin without changing its pH. You can use your desired face wash in combination with other skincare products to target issues such as acne or dry skin.

Moisturizers for teens

Aside from keeping the skin as clean as possible, applying a moisturizing mask once or twice a week will give it the nourishment it needs. On a daily, stick with a lightweight cream with a natural formula. Toners can help with skin disinfection and soothing. And every once in a while, exfoliating scrubs made with ingredients like honey or milk can work wonders.

So what else is important in keeping your skin as clear as possible in your teens? Keep your hands off! Avoid touching and picking at your face throughout the day, so as not to transfer dirt and microbes from your hands to your face. This can lead to new flare-ups and can worsen the condition of already problematic skin.

Taking care of your skin during adolescence can not only help you eliminate short-term problems, but it can also have long-lasting positive effects, well into adulthood—so always remember to take proper care of it. And if you ever want to up the ante on treatments, use Booksy to schedule an appointment with a cosmetologist or dermatologist near you.