Effective Skincare Routines for Teens: The Basics Every Parent and Teen Should Know

Navigating the world of skincare can be overwhelming, especially when you’re a teenager just starting to develop a routine. With countless products promising clear, glowing skin, it’s easy to feel confused and unsure of where to begin. The key is to start with the basics, focusing on simple yet effective steps that will set the foundation for healthy skin. As a parent, understanding these essentials can help you guide your teen in creating a routine that not only addresses their skin concerns but also builds lifelong habits for healthy skin.

During adolescence, the body goes through numerous hormonal changes that can significantly affect the skin. These hormonal shifts often lead to increased oil (sebum) production, which can clog pores and cause acne breakouts. Establishing a skincare routine early on helps manage these changes and reduces the risk of long-term skin issues such as persistent acne, scarring, or excessive oiliness.

Beyond the physical benefits, an effective skincare routine can also have a positive impact on your teen’s self-esteem and confidence. Taking time each day to care for their skin encourages self-discipline and mindfulness, fostering a sense of control over their appearance and well-being.

When it comes to skincare, consistency is more important than complexity. Encourage your teen to stick to a routine that is simple and manageable. Below are the essential steps for an effective skincare routine that every teen should follow:

Cleansing is the first and most crucial step in any skincare regimen. It removes dirt, oil, sweat, and impurities that accumulate on the skin throughout the day. For teens, it’s essential to choose a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils or cause irritation.

Morning and Night: Encourage your teen to cleanse their face twice a day—once in the morning to remove excess oil and again at night to wash away makeup, sweat and dirt. Avoid harsh scrubbing or using hot water, as this can lead to dryness and irritation.

Choose the Right Cleanser: Look for products labeled as “gentle” but be careful with products that say “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog pores, because even though they are not supposed to clog pores many products actually DO have pore clogging ingredients! You can grab a free list of pore clogging ingredients HERE  to check you products at home.   For oily or acne-prone skin, a foaming or gel-based cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid may help prevent breakouts.

After cleansing, toning helps to balance the skin’s pH and remove any remaining impurities. While some might consider toning optional, it can be beneficial for teens with oily or acne-prone skin.

Choose Alcohol-Free Formulas: Alcohol-based toners can be too harsh and drying for teen skin. Opt for alcohol-free toners with soothing ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, or rose water.

Moisturizing is essential, even for teens with oily skin. A good moisturizer hydrates the skin, locks in moisture and creates a protective barrier. Without proper hydration, the skin can produce even more oil to compensate, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.  Think of it as your skin is trying to protect itself from becoming too dry so it produces MORE oil!

Pick a Lightweight Moisturizer: For teens, lightweight, oil-free or gel-based moisturizers are ideal. Look for non-comedogenic products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

4. Sun Protection: Preventing Damage Early On

Sunscreen is often overlooked but is one of the most important steps in a skincare routine. UV exposure can worsen acne, cause premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. It can also make dark spots from acne darker so getting into the habit of using sunscreen daily can prevent these issues. 

Use the pore clogging ingredient list to check your sunscreen.

Choose a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens with at least SPF 30. Lightweight, non-greasy formulas that are suitable for acne-prone skin will encourage daily use.

5. Spot Treatment: Targeting Acne and Breakouts

For teens dealing with occasional breakouts, spot treatments can be effective. Products containing clay, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or sulfur can reduce the size and redness of pimples.  Even pimple patches might be a good alternative for a spot treatment, especially if your child tends to pick at their pimples.

Use Sparingly: Apply a small amount directly to the affected area. Avoid using spot treatments all over the face, as this can cause dryness and irritation.

6. Weekly Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, but it should be done sparingly, especially on sensitive or acne-prone skin. A gentle exfoliant used once or twice a week can help maintain smooth, clear skin.

Avoid Over-Exfoliation: Over-exfoliating can damage the skin’s natural barrier, leading to more irritation and breakouts. Choose a mild chemical exfoliant with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).

Start Simple: Begin with a basic routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. Once your teen becomes consistent, you can introduce additional steps like toning or exfoliating.

Be Patient: Results take time. Encourage your teen to give their routine at least four to six weeks before expecting visible changes.  It can take up to 90 days for a pimple that's brewing under the skin to appear. That's 3 months, there is no quick fix when it comes to clearing acne!

Avoid Switching Products Frequently: Changing products too often can irritate the skin. Stick to a routine for at least 3 months before evaluating its effectiveness.  By teaching your teen the basics of skincare, you’re providing them with the tools they need to achieve healthy skin now and in the future. Focus on consistency, quality products, and creating a routine that fits their unique skin type and concerns.

If you'd like to try my exclusive "Epidermal Repair Method with Cellular Turnover" send me an email to see if your teen is the right fit! 

Email: acneclinic111@gmail.com

Have a fabulous day!

Jean Kelly

Licensed Esthetician

Acne Specialist

 PS.

You're invited to join my free Facebook Group "Parents of Teens With Acne", join HERE

If you want to get started right away with some secrets that are easy to implement and don't cost any money, grab the online mini course "Clear Skin Secrets" HERE and start using the secrets today! It's super affordable at only $28 and lots of moms are jumping in before the price goes up.