Tween skin care: What's safe and what to avoid
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Everywhere you look, tweens are going wild for skincare. From viral TikTok trends to the crowded Sephora aisles, it's clear that tween skin care is officially a craze. Do your kids need all this stuff? The answer might surprise you.
Skincare is important for everyone’s health and hygiene, but what you need can depend on your age. Many experts suggest elaborate skincare routines can be more harmful than helpful for tween skin. Using too many products or those with harsh ingredients like retinol can potentially damage their delicate skin. So, while good skincare is helpful for everyone, approach the tween skincare trend with caution.
Why tween skin needs special care
Your tween will be happy to hear that yes, they do need special care for their skin! Our skin changes as we age, and it can be especially noticeable starting in the tween and teen years. As they (and their hormones) transition from child to teenager, tweens have unique skincare challenges and needs. Here’s how to give it the special attention it needs.
Keep it simple
Most dermatologists recommend avoiding the more complex or targeted skincare products many adults use. That’s because tween and teen skin is still developing and their hormones produce a different skin environment than adults. The more you introduce, the more reactive the skin can be. Layering too many ingredients on young skin can have the opposite effect - some kids might develop sensitivities in reaction to those ingredients that can perpetuate down the line.
For tweens, try to keep them to this easy 1-2-3 daily routine:
Essential tween skincare steps
According to many board-certified dermatologists, less is more with skin - especially young skin. Start with these three basic skincare steps for tweens and teens:
1. Cleansing
Cleansing is the first and most important step of any healthy skin care routine. Use a gentle face cleanser twice a day, in the morning and at night, to remove dirt and excess oil.
2. Moisturizing
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Moisturizing is crucial to maintain healthy skin. Developing kids need to keep it simple. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won't clog pores. Have your tween apply it after cleansing to keep their skin hydrated.
3. Sun protection
Sunscreen is a must, even during your tween years. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Have them apply it daily in the morning and again later if they’re active outside.
What about acne or other skin problems?
Once your tween has their basic 1-2-3 routine down, then you can think about attacking more specific skin issues like acne or eczema.
Skincare they likely don't need yet
While it's important to care for your tween's skin, some products may not be necessary:
Retinols: Save anti-aging creams for later in life.
Harsh or too-frequent exfoliators: Be cautious with harsh exfoliators as excessive use can damage your skin and cause irritation.
Multi-step routines or products: Keep it simple with a few essential products and fewer ingredients.
Trends: Remind your tween they don’t need to follow every skincare trend.
Using too many or the wrong products can age young skin prematurely and lead to redness, breakouts, and irritation. Exactly what your child is trying to avoid!
Healthy habits for glowing skin
Taking care of your skin also means making healthy lifestyle choices. Here are some tips to keep in mind when speaking to your tweens about skin care:
Encourage them to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Offer a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables to provide essential nutrients for their skin.
Remind them to get enough sleep to allow their bodies and skin to rest and repair.
Hands off! Touching your face too often can transfer bacteria and cause breakouts.
At this age, stick to the basics. Keep tween skin clean, hydrated, and protected from the sun.
Frequently asked questions about tween skin care
Here’s what lots of kids and parents want to know about how to keep their growing skin healthy.
Q: What types of products should I use for my tween skin?
A: Look for gentle, non-irritating products that are specifically designed for tween skin. Avoid harsh chemicals and stick to natural ingredients when possible.
Q: Do I need to use sunscreen?
A: Yes! Protecting your skin from the sun is important at every age. For kids, look for a lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects from UVA and UVB rays.
Q: How often should I wash my face?
A: Ideally, wash your face twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. But if your child has been very active, sweating, or wearing makeup it’s best to wash immediately with a gentle cleanser followed by a mild moisturizer.
Q: Can I use anti-aging products even though I'm still a tween?
A: It's not necessary or advisable to use anti-aging products at this age. Tween skin is still developing and doesn't need those types of products yet. In fact, they can irritate young skin and cause additional flare-ups. Focus on hydrating and nourishing the skin instead.
Q: Should I use a toner for my skin?
A: This depends on your skin type. Some toners can help balance your skin's pH after cleansing. But hormones can mean frequent changes in pH balance. If you must use a toner, choose one that's alcohol-free and formulated for sensitive or tween skin.
Q: Do I need to moisturize if my skin is oily?
A: Even oily skin still needs hydration. Using a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer can actually help control excess oil.
Q: What should I do if I get a pimple?
A: Pimples are normal at this age due to hormonal changes. A good spot treatment can be helpful. Don't squeeze or pick at it as this could lead to scarring! You can also use cute acne patches from the drug store to cover and treat blemishes at the same time.
Q: Can my diet affect my skin?
A: What you eat can affect your skin. A healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water can help maintain glowing skin.
Q: Do I need to exfoliate?
A: This depends on your age and skin type. Check with your pediatrician or dermatologist. Sometimes, a very gentle exfoliation once or twice a week can help remove dead skin cells. However, do not over-exfoliate as it can cause irritation.
Q: What's a good routine for my skin type?
A: Everyone’s skin is unique. In general, a simple three-step routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting with sunscreen is a good daily practice for most skin types.
Q: How do I know if a product isn't right for my skin?
A: If a product causes redness, itching, burning, or breakouts, it's likely not suitable for your skin. Stop using it and try a different product or consult a professional dermatologist for guidance.
Q: How can I deal with blackheads?
A: Regular cleansing and exfoliation can help prevent blackheads. Consult a professional dermatologist if you need to treat existing blackheads.
Q: What should I do about dry skin?
A: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and a good moisturizer. Avoid hot or overly long showers and harsh soaps which can strip your skin of its natural oils.
Q: How do I handle sensitive skin?
A: For sensitive skin, always choose gentle, hypoallergenic products. Avoid fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.
Q: What can I do about my acne?
A: Acne is common in tweens due to hormonal changes. Keep your skin clean, don't pick at your pimples, and speak to a professional dermatologist to find out if over-the-counter products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide might be safe for you.
Congratulations, you’re ready to turn your tween into a skincare pro! Taking care of your skin is an essential part of hygiene and self-care that can also help tweens feel confident. Help your child learn to listen to their skin and treat it well with this basic three-step daily routine.
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