Back To School Skincare
School is back in session and everyone is getting back to their normal routines, which hopefully includes their skincare routines. Throughout this year we’ve seen a huge rise in the popularity of skincare amongst the younger generations and it left many of you asking, “does my tween really need these products?” and “what products should my kid be using?”
Let’s start with skincare for your tween. At this age the main goal is to keep their skin barrier healthy and get them started on good habits, including washing their face morning and night. At their young age their skin does not need retinols or chemical exfoliants like AHA’s and BHA’s. The best thing they can do is keep it simple and gentle.
Here’s an example routine for your tween:
Morning:
Cleanse with a gentle cleanser.
Moisturize.
SPF.
Evening:
Cleanse with a gentle cleanser.
Moisturize.
If your tween starts to experience issues with acne then it’s time to consult with an Esthetician or Dermatologist to determine the best products for treatment while still maintaining the health of their skin.
Teen skincare may not differ that much than the routine above. However, teens can start experiencing some changes in their skin due to puberty such as increased oil production and breakouts, which may require additional products. Acne and breakouts can not only be damaging to a teen’s self esteem it can be hard to navigate which products are best suited for them. That’s where an Esthetician, and if needed a Dermatologist, come into play. We can help you determine which products will be right for your teen.
Here’s an example of a simple skincare routine for your teen:
Morning:
Cleanse with a gentle cleanser, or treatment cleanser.
Spot treat any acne lesions if needed.
Moisturize.
SPF.
Evening:
Cleanse with a gentle cleanser, or treatment cleanser.
Treatment product for acne (what product will depend on your teen’s skin and the type of acne they have).
Moisturize.
Other important things for your tween and teen to know when it comes to skincare (and maybe you too, wink wink):
Stop touching your face! Seriously. Do not pick your face. Picking and squeezing your face not only spreads bacteria around that could potentially cause more breakouts, but it can also lead to scarring.
Avoid over exfoliating. Over exfoliating only leads to a damaged skin barrier which can actually make acne worse.
Remember, just because something worked for someone else does not mean it will work for you too. Your skincare should be tailored to your skin and your specific needs.
Have a great school year and don’t forget to wash your face before bed!