Changes initiated by hormones during puberty can affect the skin in many ways, but most often, the T-zone is the biggest skin issue seen with teenagers. When putting together a homecare regimen for teenagers, results need to be seen relatively quickly in order for them to continue using the product. The regimen also needs to be kept simple and easy to maintain. It is best to start with no more than three products and then slowly introduce additional products as the teenager becomes used to their skin care routine and develops compliance. A cleanser and a moisturizer suitable for their skin type should be at the core of a teenager’s basic skin care routine. These two types of product will provide immediate benefits of clean, dewy, and hydrated skin. Exfoliating products should be introduced to the routine next, but teenagers should be cautioned not to over-exfoliate and strip their protective barrier. Masks can also be a product teenagers enjoy when skin care professionals recommend masks with fun and enticing features that prompt regular use.

SKIN CARE ROUTINE FOR TEENAGERS

Start and end the day with a proper face cleanse. A balancing gel cleanser that provides a gentle, sulphate-free lather should be used daily. However, if the skin is oily or prone to breakouts, a cleanser that is formulated with mild exfoliating actives would be more beneficial. The evening cleanse is the most important step in the routine, as daily activities and exposure to the environment cause the skin to accumulate pollutants, dirt, and debris. It is best to keep a facial cleanser in the shower, as this ensures its use during the shower in the morning or evening and eliminates an extra step of having to wash the face at the sink.

After cleansing, always apply a moisturizer within 30 seconds to lock in moisture and avoid dehydration that can lead to increased dryness. Use a moisturizer that helps restore the skin’s natural moisturizing factors and maintains balance, promoting a healthy complexion. Moisturizer is of crucial importance for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone, as it not only hydrates the skin, but also strengthens the barrier and elevates skin’s resistance to acne-bacteria and other irritants.

Regular exfoliation is necessary for the healthy cellular turnover of the skin. Exfoliating one to three times a week can reduce excess sebum and dead cell buildup, helping to clear breakouts and pore congestion. The type of exfoliant clients use will be dependent on skin condition and severity or grade of acne. For example, if the skin is irritated and inflamed and looks to be a grade III or IV, refrain from using any type of granular exfoliation. Instead, it is best to choose a cream enzyme exfoliating mask or a mild exfoliating surface peel of beta hydroxy acids (BHA) and enzymes. However, if the skin primarily shows just blackheads and whiteheads with no signs of inflammation, then using any form of exfoliation – mechanical, chemical, or enzymatic – should work well.

Cleansing pads can be especially useful for active, on the go teenagers. For those in after-school activities that produce sweat, cleansing pads are the perfect solution.

Make sure to wash pillow cases frequently, as well as makeup brushes. Many teenagers tend to use heavy makeup to cover their breakouts, which can create a vicious cycle of bacterial proliferation. Weekly washing of pillow cases and makeup brushes can help reduce the accumulation of bacteria, dirt, and oils.

Wear sunscreen daily. With all of the outdoor activities teenagers are involved in, sun protection is a must.

Wash hands throughout the day and try to refrain from touching the face.

The teenage years and stress often go hand-in-hand. Peer and social stressors, self-esteem stressors, family stressors, and even sexual stressors can deplete teenagers emotionally and physically and wreak havoc on their skin. The need for the younger generation to engage in self-care has never been more important. Helping them develop good skin care habits now is imperative.

Ashley Stowers is a national educator and account executive for YG Laboratories and CelleClé Skincare. In addition to her role in sales, Stowers provides hands-on support in all aspects of education and product knowledge training, protocol development, and effective business merchandising. With over 15 years of experience in sales and education, holding positions as an aesthetics instructor and skin care therapist, Stowers possesses a very broad and unique understanding of the professional skin care industry.