With more teens and tweens interested in skincare nowadays, beauty editor Lauren Ezekiel outlines the only products dermatologists recommend they should be using – and what they should avoid
Gone are the days of slime and L.O.L. Dolls; today, Gen Alpha kids are scrolling the Sephora website, binge-watching GRWM (Get Ready With Me) videos on YouTube and treating their local Boots like a day out. But why are teens and tweens now getting swept up in skincare crazes? And should your child really be using all these products?
Experts agree that the rise in skincare interest and purchasing is, unsurprisingly, largely driven by the power of social media. As a beauty editor passionate about skincare – and a mum of a tween myself – I’m torn between fully embracing this and resisting it altogether. However, I do believe in empowering teens with knowledge, and – so long as the ingredients are appropriate and safe – starting a good skincare habit should be encouraged.
To help navigate the trend, I asked skincare experts to share their insights on the best products and ingredients for this age group…
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Which skincare ingredients are suitable for teen and tween skin?
Dr Amina Albeyatti, a GP who recently launched Troikin, a skincare line aimed at youngsters aged 5-16, says, “Young, developing skin only needs protection. During the day, SPF, vitamin C and vitamin E protect against UV damage and free radicals from pollution.
“Another crucial element is hydration, which maintains a strong skin barrier to regulate temperature and defend against bacteria, fungus and allergens.”
“Keep it simple,” Reena Hammer, co-founder of Indu, a skincare brand formulated for teens, agrees. She says, “Look for glycerin and squalane in moisturisers, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and salicylic acid and zinc for blemish-prone skin.”
Which skincare products should I let my teen and tween use?
If your youngster’s skin isn’t showing any major issues, a simple routine is all they need: cleanse, moisturise and SPF. This three-step approach helps to establish good skincare habits early on.
Bubble is a brand that recognises its younger fan base and provides age suitability information on its website. Bubble Fresh Start Cleansing Gel, currently £12.80 (usual price £16), is a great all-rounder with ‘social’ appeal. For a more affordable high-street option, try Boots Aqua Hydrating Cleanser, £6.
When it comes to moisturisers, Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Moisturiser, currently £12.38 (usual price £16.50), is suitable for all ages and skin types. For a budget-friendly choice, Superdrug Vitamin E Moisturiser, £2, offers great value. If your tween is struggling with dryness or sensitive skin, Troikin Nightology, £34, is perfect for bedtime.
For SPF, Indu Everyday Hero SPF 50+, £25, provides the skin with high-level protection.
Which skincare products should my teenager use for blemishes?
Dr Derrick Phillips, a consultant dermatologist, says, “Acne can occur due to hormonal changes during puberty, which lead to increased sebum production, causing whiteheads, blackheads and pimples.”
A targeted skincare routine with active ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and niacinamide can help unblock pores and reduce inflammation. To ensure proper cleansing, try CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser, currently £10.87 (usual price £14.50), for under-the-skin blemishes. For oily skin, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Face and Body Cleansing Gel, £17.50, is a great option.
For a non-invasive solution, hydrocolloid spot patches are ideal, as they allow blemishes to heal without the risk of contamination from hands. Try Starface, currently £8.99 (usual price £11.99), for fun, statement-making patches, or Hero Mighty Pimple Patches, curerntly £6.39 (usual price £7.99), for a more discreet option.
If persistent blemishes remain a concern, 47 Skin Serum, £29, with silver chitoderm and 15% azelaic acid can help to control breakouts, reduce inflammation and fade post-acne pigmentation.
Which skincare ingredients should teens and tweens avoid?
“I strongly advise against teens using retinol or exfoliating acids unless prescribed by a doctor,” says Dr Sonia Khorana, GP and derm expert for Hero Cosmetics. “These can be highly irritating.”
Dr Emma Cunningham, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics, also warns against alcohol-based products. She says, “These can strip too much moisture from the skin, leading to dryness and triggering excess oil production, which could worsen breakouts.”