I always say skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, and this applies to pre-teens and teenagers as well.

Pre-teen and teen skin can sometimes seem impossible to manage. The constant fluctuation of hormones can lead to common skin issues like acne, blackheads, dry skin, excessive oiliness and more. A simple, effective skincare routine can go a long way and help keep breakouts at bay.

The Basics

Whether your pre-teen or teen is experiencing the occasional spot or suffering from more severe acne, knowing the basics of skincare will help set them up for success, both in the short and long-term. Here is a breakdown of the first steps to take, followed by an example morning and evening routine.

Step 1: Figure Out Their Skin Type

Before choosing products, it’s important that they understand their skin type. Here’s how:

  • Ask them to wash their face with a gentle cleanser, then wait about two hours (don’t apply any other products).
  • Observe their skin:
    • If it’s shiny and looks or feels oily, it’s likely have oily skin.
    • If it feels tight, red, or flaky, it’s likely they have dry skin.
    • If they notice oiliness in some spots (e.g forehead and nose) and dry patches in others, it’s likely they have combination skin.

Knowing their skin type will help them pick the right products.

Morning Skincare

The morning routine should be quick and simple. One important thing to note – if your pre-teen or teen has acne-prone skin, make sure they introduce new products gradually. Overloading the skin too quickly can cause irritation.

  • 4. Apply sunscreen: Daily sunscreen is crucial, even on cloudy days. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sun damage and helping prevent acne.

Evening Skincare

At the end of the day, it’s important for your pre-teen or teen to cleanse their skin to remove sunscreen, makeup (if they wear it), dirt, and pollutants.

  • 1. Remove makeup: Use a gentle, barrier-supporting cleanser to get rid of makeup.
  • 2. Double cleanse: If their skin is feeling particularly clogged, try double cleansing. Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gel, milk or water-based cleanser to clean the skin. Some gentle oil-based cleansers and balms I love below.
  • 3. Moisturize: Finish with a light, gentle moisturizer to replenish skin’s hydration without clogging pores.

Dos and Don’ts

Building good skincare habits now will help keep your child’s skin healthy and balanced. Here are some extra tips to keep them on the right track:

  • Don’t over-exfoliate: Scrubbing too hard can cause irritation and breakouts. Stick to exfoliating once a week with a gentle product, if necessary. Some recommendations for gentle exfoliants below: The Inkey List PHA Toner, Medik8 Press & Glow Toner, Neostrata PHA Exfoliating Pads.
  • Avoid touching the face: Hands carry bacteria that can transfer to the face and cause breakouts.
  • Do double cleanse: It’s especially effective if they wear makeup or have oily skin.
  • Don’t squeeze spots: It’s tempting, but squeezing spots can cause scarring and make breakouts worse.
  • Use sunscreen daily: Even during the winter, sunscreen is their skin’s best defense.
  • Don’t sleep in makeup: Always remove makeup before bed to avoid clogged pores, breakouts and irritation.

Keep It Simple

Your pre-teen or teens skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated. Stick to the basics, and add products as needed. If they have severe acne, however, or if their spots are leaving scars, consult your GP or Dermatologist immediately. A medical treatment plan may be necessary.

I hope this guide is helpful. For more skincare guides click here.

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