Skincare Tips for Tweens
Question:
My daughter is 12 years old. She’s showing early signs of acne on her face, and I'm concerned that it's going to start early. She only uses water to wash her face, and honestly, I'm not sure how well she washes it. I don't want to get her skincare products that will be too harsh for her age, but I also want to get her using something more than water. What do you recommend?
Answer:
Depending on your teen (or tween), remember: they are responsible for bathing themselves, so you may not really know what all is involved with their cleansing habits. But I have some great tips and product recommendations that will make it easy on you and your tween.
First, unless your tween has been diagnosed with actual acne, they don't need an acne line. Their skin is undergoing changes and there is a risk of disrupting and irritating things if they use ingredients that are too aggressive.
Instead, talk to your tween about their skin care habits. Are they only using water? Are they using a bar soap? Are they possibly using your products? The last two options can cause havoc with sensitive skin, so once you know what they are doing, you can give advice on what the better option(s) would be.
One of my all time faves is DermaMD Enzyme Cleanser – it is simply a great cleanser for anyone: tweens, adults, women, men, oily, dry etc! It works gently with Pineapple and Papaya enzymes, it’s non-abrasive, and the Aloe and Avocado Oil help with anti-inflammatory, bactericidal and soothing benefits.
Your tween should realistically only need to wash once a day (before bed), unless they have been active in after-school sports or other activities where they have become sweaty or visibly dirty.
Second, if they are acne-prone and don’t have a chance to cleanse after sports or becoming sweaty or dirty, etc, a Toner can be very useful. Toners can help remove traces of bacteria, makeup, sweat, dirt, etc. from the skin, leaving it hydrated and fresh and, most importantly, a toner can prevent bacteria on the surface from leading to blemishes. DermaMD Kiwi Grapefruit Toner (with Witch Hazel) is awesome, affordable and effective!
Just spritz onto a cotton pad and wipe gently over the face. This can be kept in a gym bag, or school bag etc. A toner can also be used after a cleanser in the AM or PM to boost the results of the cleanser… leaving the skin refreshed, hydrated, smooth and clean!
Glowingly Yours,
Iris