Your teen's skin is still developing - it's more reactive and absorbs ingredients more easily than adult skin. Many popular products are formulated for adults and can cause real harm. Here's what to look out for.
Ingredients to avoid
"Young people are exposed to a huge amount of misinformation about skin from social media and other sources. It's essential to educate and empower them to understand the key aspects of maintaining healthy skin."- Dr Emma Wedgeworth, Consultant Dermatologist, Harley Street
"It's great to look after your skin but not to the point where you are using so many different products. The vast majority you will not need and some could even be detrimental. Some young people are even using retinol, which can be damaging for sensitive skin."- Dr Emma Wedgeworth, British Cosmetic Dermatology Group, via The Guardian
Product types to avoid
Anti-ageing serums and creams
Formulated for adult concerns. Contain actives far too strong for developing skin.
At-home peel pads
Even gentle versions strip the skin barrier. Not appropriate for anyone under 18.
Physical scrubs
Crushed walnut shells and sugar scrubs cause micro-tears. A soft flannel is enough.
Viral influencer sets
Cute packaging does not equal safe formulations. Always check the label.
The bottom line ✦
A gentle cleanser, a basic moisturiser, and SPF. That's genuinely all young skin needs. Everything else is marketing.
Taking care of your skin is great - but a lot of what's trending online is designed for adult skin, not yours. Here's a straight-up breakdown of what to skip and why.
Ingredients to skip
"Laying the foundations of healthy skin care practices early is an excellent strategy to ensure long-term skin health."- Dr Emma Wedgeworth, Consultant Dermatologist, Harley Street
"A 13-year-old's skincare routine should prioritise basic hygiene, rather than unnecessary complexity."- Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist, Self London, via The Times
Products to leave on the shelf
Anti-ageing anything
You do not have ageing skin. These products solve a problem you do not have and create new ones.
Peel pads
Too strong even for most adults. Leave them alone for now.
Layered actives
A 10-step routine is not better. Less really is more at this stage.
Sponsored products
Influencer sponsorships do not come with skincare qualifications. Always check the label.
Real talk ✦
Your skin is doing incredible things on its own right now. Simple is always better. Everything else can wait.