“Teaching your children how to look after their skin” is a collaborative post.
Helping your preteens and teens learn how to care for their skin is a valuable step in guiding them toward lifelong healthy habits. By establishing a consistent routine now, you can help your child manage common skin issues and build confidence in caring for their appearance.
After all, the preteen and teenage years can be intense for many families, so anything you can do to ease the struggles your kids might face will be worthwhile.
Understanding teenage skin
During adolescence, hormonal shifts can significantly impact the skin, leading to common issues like acne, excess oil and increased sensitivity. These changes are a normal part of growing up, as hormones stimulate oil glands, making skin more prone to clogged pores and breakouts.
It’s helpful for parents to reassure their teens that these challenges are common and can be managed with a few consistent skincare habits.
Establishing a simple skincare routine
Encouraging them to adopt a tailored skincare routine can help them keep their skin balanced. Skincare for kids typically contains gentle ingredients to reduce the risk of further irritation.
This approach not only addresses current skin concerns but also fosters a positive, proactive attitude toward self-care during these transformative years.
Every routine will vary. Often, it involves cleansing morning and night to remove oil and impurities without stripping the skin. Many follow up with a lightweight moisturiser to keep skin hydrated. Finally, applying SPF daily protects their skin from UV damage. Choose products that are gentle and designed for young skin.
Managing acne and breakouts
Acne is a common skin concern for teens and learning to manage it can make a big difference in their confidence. Encourage teens to use gentle products, avoiding harsh cleansers or scrubs that can irritate and worsen breakouts.
Spot treatments with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help reduce active blemishes. For persistent or severe acne, consider consulting a dermatologist to explore treatment options.
Beyond physical care, it’s essential to address the emotional impact acne can have. Parents can offer support by reassuring their teens that acne is normal, temporary, and something that can be managed.
The importance of sun protection
Educating teens on sun protection is vital for long-term skin health. Daily sun exposure, even in the UK’s milder climate, can contribute to premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer over time.
Teaching teens to incorporate broad-spectrum SPF into their daily routine helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays, which are responsible for skin damage and aging. Stress the importance of applying sunscreen as part of their morning routine, not just on sunny days but year-round. By adopting this habit early, teens are building a foundation for healthier skin and safeguarding it against future sun damage.
