Skincare for Preteens and Teens: Finding the Right Balance
A trending topic making waves is the skincare habits of young adolescents. It's alarming to note that children as young as eight are diving into the world of skincare, experimenting with potent ingredients like Vitamin C and Retinol. Concerns are growing about the potential harm they may be causing to their delicate skin.
Skincare for Young Children: The idea of kids as young as eight using potent skincare products typically reserved for adults with established routines is concerning. While instilling healthy self-care habits like good hygiene, adequate sleep, and grooming is commendable, skincare for children should remain simple. At this age, all they really need is gentle cleansing and a light moisturizer to maintain skin health and barrier function. Their young skin is still developing, and excessive use of active ingredients can lead to damage, dryness, and irritation.
Dealing with Teenage Breakouts: As puberty approaches, hormonal changes often trigger oily skin, congestion, and breakouts in teens. This is when a few targeted products can be introduced to manage excess oil and inflammation. Ingredients like Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide can help, but opt for gentle formulations designed for teenage skin, such as Dermalogica's Clear Start line. Simplifying the routine is crucial to avoid overwhelming the skin with too many products, which can lead to dryness, dehydration, and more breakouts.
Navigating Social Media Influences: The allure of skincare trends among younger children is largely fueled by social media platforms like TikTok. However, many of these trends are not suitable for their age or skin condition, leading to unnecessary concerns about appearance and premature aging. Encourage following influencers who promote realistic practices and advocate for skin and body confidence. Additionally, consulting a skincare expert can provide tailored advice on skincare needs.
Dos and Don'ts for Younger Skin:
Do:
- Cleanse daily with a gentle cleanser
- Moisturize with a light formula
- Apply SPF when outdoors
- Maintain a consistent AM & PM routine
- Avoid products with artificial fragrances and drying alcohols
- Focus on skin health over perfection
- Establish healthy rituals like proper sleep and nutrition
- Seek advice from a Professional Skin Therapist
Don't:
- Use potent actives like Retinol and Vitamin C
- Follow trends without considering suitability for your skin
- Overcomplicate your skincare routine
- Pick at your spots; use spot treatments instead
- Switch brands and products too frequently
- Invest in expensive formulas unnecessarily
- Compare your skin to others; everyone's skin is unique!