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Anjika Shah
Jul 274 min read

Teen Skincare: Safe and Effective Use

Updated: Nov 4

Writers: Anjika Shah

Editor: Isabella Io

Now more than ever, teenagers are obsessing over skincare. Many argue that taking care of one’s skin from an early age is a good thing. But is the overuse of unnecessary products, like retinol, destroying their skin barrier?

So what is skin care? Why are many teenagers using unnecessary skincare products? What ingredients should teenagers stay away from? And lastly, what should a teenager’s ideal skincare routine look like?



What is Skincare?

Simply put, skincare is using products to keep one’s skin healthy. [1] Skincare is typically done to improve the quality of one’s skin and target cosmetic or health problems such as wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, and sun damage. A skincare routine typically consists of cleansing one’s face to remove excess dirt and oil, toning one’s skin to even out texture, using a serum to target a specific need like hyperpigmentation, and moisturizing to prevent dry skin; however, in recent years, many other techniques have been introduced through social media. Various products are available for each step of one’s routine, and the products may be bought by oneself or prescribed. [2] Skincare is typically done by middle-aged women, but in recent years, tweens and teenagers have started doing skincare as well. 

(Source: Healthline)

While skincare is used to improve the quality of one's skin, overuse or the use of the wrong products can harm the skin barrier, especially in younger people. Using harsh chemicals and over-exfoliating can damage one’s skin barrier and cause issues such as acne, inflammation, and irritation. [3]


Why Are So Many Teenagers Using Unnecessary Products?

The simple answer to the rise of skincare use in teens and tweens is social media. Influencers show their long and expensive skincare routines, and brands advertise their products as colorful and fun. When one tween gets a product, it makes others want to try it out as well, and over time, it becomes a trend. Skincare is, in a sense, the new “collector’s item”. Skincare brands have such heavy marketing that tweens and teenagers buy skincare products with unnecessary ingredients for anti-aging and wrinkle treatment. Not only does social media help in the marketing of certain brands and products, but it also makes consumers feel as if they need skin care. Social media promotes perfect skin and a flawless face and contributes to insecurities and a negative body image. [4] This results in teens using skincare as a preventative measure for normal things like wrinkles and acne.


What Should Teenagers Stay Away From?

When following these skincare trends, it is important to know which ingredients and products to stay away from. The main products that teenagers/tweens do not need are retinol and retinoids. These products are commonly used for anti-aging purposes. A gentle alternative is Azelaic Acid. An ingredient unnecessary for teenagers is salicylic acid, which can be found in serums or cleansers. This acid is used for exfoliation, and while it may be used for the right purpose, it can have adverse effects. Salicylic acid can be too harsh on delicate skin. Some milder alternatives are tea tree oil and glycolic acid. Another ingredient to stay away from is alcohol. Alcohol can deeply redden and irritate the skin. [5] It is also better to avoid strong fragrances and dyes, which may irritate. One last ingredient to stay away from is ethanolamine, which is used to give a product texture. It has been linked to liver cancer and thyroid problems. [6]

It is important to remember that any of these ingredients/products may be used wisely if recommended by a healthcare professional to treat skin conditions like acne.


A Teenager's Skincare Routine

A teen’s skincare routine can be simple and consistent, without destroying the skin barrier. In the morning, they can start with a cleanser. A great product to use is the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser as it locks in moisture while maintaining one’s skin barrier. They should rinse their face, apply the cleanser, rinse off, and then pat the face dry. The next step, a toner, is optional. A good product for this is the Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner. It does not contain harsh ingredients and is alcohol-free, which is good for sensitive skin. Gently pat this product into your skin as a gentle exfoliant. The next product is vital to healthy skin: moisturizer. A good moisturizer is the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel because it hydrates any skin type for up to twenty-four hours. Apply the product to your neck and face. The last ingredient is probably the most important - sunscreen! To prevent sun-related skin conditions it is important to wear sunscreen every day, especially before long hours of exposure to the sun. A good product should have at least 30 SPF. [7]

For an evening skincare routine, it is important to also start with a cleanser. If recommended by a healthcare professional, a targeted product can be used after to treat certain conditions (such as a benzoyl peroxide acne treatment). The routine should end with a moisturizer like the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion as it helps restore one’s skin barrier. A routine like this ensures that the skin stays protected and clean without disrupting the natural oils the skin produces. Use of improper products can lead to more problems and do more harm than good, so remember to check the ingredients before buying skincare!


Sources & Works Cited


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