Teenagers using active skincare has been a hot topic of conversation over the last few months; whether or not it’s appropriate or necessary. Although I firmly believe that no teenager needs to be using any form of anti-ageing product or strong actives like retinoids or acids, it can be helpful to adopt a consistent skincare routine.
That’s why I’ve put together a basic, effective (and at times fun!) skincare routine that is teen-appropriate to help protect and benefit the skin without taking it too far with unnecessary products.
To make it easy to follow, I’ve broken it down into AM and PM routines with each step outlined along with product recommendations. If you (or a teen you know) are struggling with specific skin concerns like acne or rosacea then it’s always recommended to visit a skincare professional who can diagnose and advise on individual circumstances, but this is a good place to start if there are no real concerns.
Morning skincare routine for teens
Cleanser
Not everyone necessarily needs to wash their face with a cleanser in the morning, sometimes just a splash of water is enough. People who typically benefit from a cleanser are acne-prone skin types, those who sweat overnight (this is often most of us in the summer months) and if you are on the oilier side. Even then, a gentle cleanser is enough to rid any sebum from the night.
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
You can’t get more gentle than CeraVe’s Hydrating Cleanser. It’s a main stay in most beauty editor’s bathroom cabinets.
Garnier Gentle Hydrating Deep Face Cleanser
Garnier is the perfect entry-level brand – its efficacious but won’t aggravate the skin.
Moisturiser
You don’t always have to use a moisturiser if you find that your sunscreen is moisturising enough; it really depends on your skin type. If you’ve got oily skin avoid anything too heavy, a lightweight moisturiser or sunscreen alone is enough, but if you have drier skin, you’ll might want a separate moisturiser that’s slightly richer.
Bubble Slam Dunk Hydrating Cream Moisturiser
Bubble might look like fun, but its formulas are hardworking and effective.
If you are particularly oily, a mattifying moisturiser will come in handy to keep shine at bay.
Sunscreen
This is the most important morning step for your routine. Sunscreen helps prevent burning and exacerbating concerns like acne, rosacea and uneven skin tone. It’s a great habit to get into every day.
Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion SPF50+ For Face
A really brilliant sunscreen at a really affordable price.
Hello Sunday The Everyday One Face Moisturiser SPF 50
This lightweight SPF will sit beautifully under make-up.
Evening skincare routine for teens
Cleanser
It’s really important to cleanse the day off so don’t skip this step. If you’re wearing lots of sunscreen, heavy make-up or find yourself sweating a lot during the day then it’s a good idea to double cleanse. Double cleansing includes using an oil-based product on dry skin, massaging it in and then using a muslin cloth to remove make-up. Follow this with a creamy or gel cleanser to further cleanse and address any concerns.
Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil
Work this into dry skin, then remove with a damp muslin cloth or flannel.
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser
If you want to target blemishes, a gentle salicylic acid-based cleanser like this from The Inkey List is the ideal second step in the double cleanse.
Serum
This step is optional but can be great if you’re trying to target a concern like acne or rosacea. It’s best to seek professional advice when it comes to choosing the right serum to make sure you’re not using too many actives when that isn’t necessary as this can impact the skin barrier and actually cause more problems.
Dermatica Clarifying Azelaic Acid 12% Cream
Azelaic acid is known to improve the appearance of redness in the skin, improve skin texture and tackle blemishes, so this topical cream will be a nice addition to a routine.
Acnecide Gel Spot Treatment with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide
A really effective spot treatment for those stubborn spots that put up a fight and need encouragement to go.
Moisturiser
Seal in that moisture to keep the skin barrier happy. You can use your morning moisturiser at night too, so there’s no need to get another if you find your AM one is working. However, some people prefer to get a cream that’s slightly richer for the evening.
Byoma Moisturizing Rich Cream
Byoma is a brand that was created to support the skin barrier – everyone could benefit from using this rich cream in the evening.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors & HA
The Ordinary is a brand you can always rely on for affordable and effective skincare.