It’s hard not to notice that kids’ skincare is trending. Scroll TikTok or Instagram, and you’ll find young influencers modeling multi-step routines packed with serums, scrubs and masks, often geared at teens and even tweens as young as 8 or 9.
That kind of messaging can make it hard for kids — and their parents — to know what’s necessary.
“It’s still important to establish healthy skin care habits as children begin to enter puberty,” says Allison Zarbo, M.D., a pediatric dermatologist at Henry Ford Health, in a Henry Ford Health blog. “But kids don’t need an elaborate skincare routine.”
Here’s insight on what a healthy, age-appropriate approach looks like.
How tween and teen skin works
During puberty, usually around ages 9-14, hormonal shifts affect the skin — most notably an increase in oil production. That excess oil can clog pores and trigger breakouts, especially on the forehead, nose and chin.
This typically means it’s time for a gentle cleansing routine, Zarbo notes (more on that below). Also, it’s essential in part because tween and teen skin is also more delicate.
Real-life risks of intense skincare routines
When kids use too many skincare products — or ones that are too harsh — it can cause irritation now and lead to sensitivities later. A few problems, notes Brown University Health:
- Reactivity: Certain ingredients make young skin more reactive, especially to sun
- Dryness: Too many exfoliants or toners dry the skin and weaken its natural barrier
- Stripping oils: Excess acne treatments can strip away healthy protective oils
Frequent exposure to certain ingredients may increase the risk of developing allergic reactions over time, Mayo Clinic notes.
Kids’ skin is still developing, adds UCLA Health, and introducing too many “active” ingredients — like retinols and peptides — can lead to problems.
“Most kids and teens don’t have the problems adult skin care products try to solve,” KidsHealth Nemours sums up. “On young skin, these can cause things like acne, burns and rashes.”
The basics: Cleanse, moisturize, protect
For tweens and teens, experts recommend a simple routine focusing on a few essentials:
- Gentle cleansing: Use a fragrance-free cleanser to remove dirt and oil without stripping the skin, twice daily. Look for something “non-comedogenic,” Henry Ford Health notes, which won’t clog pores.
- Moisturizing: Apply a lightweight, hypoallergenic moisturizer after cleansing to keep the skin hydrated.
- Sun protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect skin from harmful UV rays. Mayo suggests a zinc oxide version, which provides a physical barrier.
What to do about persistent acne
Mild acne is common during puberty, affecting 85% of adolescents, says the American Academy of Dermatology. A few of its tips on acne (especially if it’s stubborn):
- Give treatments 4-6 weeks to work
- Apply as directed — not just on spots
- Don’t pile on products or scrub too hard
- See a dermatologist if OTC options aren’t working
For most kids, Henry Ford Health adds, start with a gentle cleanser with 1%-2% salicylic acid. For more aggressive acne, consider a wash with benzoyl peroxide (2.5%-10%).
Takeaway tips for parents and tweens/teens
When it comes to helping kids manage skincare, dermatologists offer a few clear recommendations:
- Start simple: Stick to gentle products and ease into anything stronger.
- Watch for reactions: If redness, dryness or irritation develops, scale back and check in with a pediatrician or dermatologist.
- Don’t rely on influencers: Social media often promotes products designed for adult skin, not younger skin. Remind kids that trends aren’t tailored to them.
By focusing on expert-backed steps and listening to their skin, tweens and teens can avoid the pitfalls of overdoing it.
This content is sponsored by Henry Ford Health. For related content, visit Top Kids Health Questions Answered!
