A 5-Step AM Skincare Routine For Teen Skin

Thanks to puberty, skin can be all over the place when you’re in your teens. Hormonal changes can mean your skin has problems with breakouts, clogged pores, and oiliness (hormones called androgens increase the production of oil (or sebum) from the sebaceous glands). Dead skin cells stick to this oil and block the pores, resulting in blackheads, and bacteria which builds up in these clogged pores leads to breakouts. The best thing to do is introduce a proper skincare routine and stick to products that are simple and gentle to keep your skin calm, clear, and balanced. 

Teen skin usually does a good job of exfoliating itself, so you it’s important to avoid using abrasive cleansers or scrubs daily. They can irritate your skin and dry it out, causing it to over-produce oil and clog pores. Instead, start the day off by cleansing with a gentle and refreshing gel formula which allows you to remove morning oiliness without stressing out your skin. Massage onto damp skin and rinse away with warm water. 

This step is super useful for getting a mix of hydrating ingredients alongside ingredients to target your specific skin concerns. Toners these days do more than just refresh skin – look out for formulas that contain breakout-fighting ingredients like niacinamide, cica, witch hazel, zinc, and salicylic acid. Mist on generously after cleansing. 

These days there are plenty of options for serums designed specifically for addressing the concerns associated with teen skin, like increased breakouts, oiliness, congestion, and post-acne scarring. They hero ingredients like salicylic acid (to unclog blocked pores), niacinamide (which balances skin and fades pigmentation), and cica (which calms redness and irritation). Apply your serum by patting onto damp skin and focus on areas of concern such as the T-zone. 

Follow your serum with a lightweight moisturiser to maintain hydration throughout the day. Hydration is key to achieving healthy balanced skin – without it skin will attempt to self-moisturise by producing more oil. Look for a product that is water-based – they tend to spread easily, feel light on skin, and have a non-greasy texture that will sit well under makeup, won’t clog pores, and will put an end to any shiny photo faces. Massage onto skin, focusing on any areas of dryness. 

The majority of sun damage happens when we’re young so it’s super important to get into the good habit of protecting your skin daily. We all know that exposure to UV rays damages skin, leads to early signs of aging and can result in more serious concerns like skin cancer, but did you also know that it can also cause enlarged pores, post-acne pigmentation, and can trigger inflammatory skin concerns like rosacea? Even more reason to apply… Look out for serum formulas which feel light on skin and play well with makeup – don’t forget your neck!