Navigating the world of skincare can be daunting, especially for teenagers who are just beginning to establish their skincare routines.
The teenage years bring about significant changes in hormones, lifestyle, and environmental exposures, all of which can impact the health and appearance of the skin. However, amidst the plethora of skincare advice and products available, many teenagers fall into common traps that can actually do more harm than good to their skin.
In this blog post we explain the common mistakes that teenagers make in their skincare routines and provide expert advice on how to avoid these pitfalls.
1. Overwashing and Harsh Cleansers
Some teenagers may believe that washing their face multiple times a day with strong cleansers will keep their skin clear. However, overwashing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even increased oil production. This can make acne worse and bring on other skin issues. Instead, we recommend washing the face twice a day with a gentle cleanser specifically formulated for teenage skin. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil to target acne without causing excessive dryness.
2. Skipping Sunscreen
Some teenagers underestimate the importance of sunscreen in their daily skincare routine. Exposure to UV rays without protection can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. We encourage teenagers to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days or during winter months.
Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic option that won't clog pores or feel heavy on the skin.
3. Picking at Pimples
The urge to pick at pimples is common among teenagers, but it has bad effects on the skin. Picking can cause inflammation, scarring, and the spread of bacteria, leading to more breakouts.
We advise teenagers to avoid picking at their skin and instead use targeted spot treatments with ingredients like tea tree oil or benzoyl peroxide to reduce acne and inflammation.
We encourage them to develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress, as stress can make acne worse and trigger skin-picking behaviors.
4. Using Incorrect Products
Teenagers often experiment with skincare products without considering their skin type or specific concerns. Using products that are too harsh or not suitable for their skin can disrupt the skin's natural balance and worsen issues like acne or dryness.
Teenagers should be seek help to determine their skin type (e.g., sensitive, oily, dry, combination) and get recommendations about products formulated for their specific needs.
5. Neglecting Moisturisation
Some teenagers with oily or acne-prone skin may believe that moisturisers will make their skin more oily or cause breakouts. However, moisturisation is essential for all skin types to maintain hydration and a healthy skin barrier.
We recommend lightweight, moisturisers that won't clog pores or contribute to excess oil production. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid can provide hydration without heaviness.
6. Ignoring Professional Advice
Many teenagers rely on online sources or advice from friends rather than consulting skincare professionals. While online information can be helpful, it's essential to seek guidance for personalised advice and treatment plans.