Skincare for teenagers: 6 ingredients teens should avoid

A proper skincare routine is not just for women over 20. It also needs to be followed by teenagers to manage skin concerns, maintain skin balance, and prevent long-term damage. We know that excess oil production may clog pores, and lead to acne, a common problem among teenagers. Dry skin can become irritated without adequate hydration. Without a doubt, eating healthy and drinking sufficient amounts of water are great ways to take care of skin. Sticking to a consistent skincare routine early is also needed, as teenagers can learn the importance of skin health and self-care that will benefit them later in life. But there are some skincare ingredients teenagers should avoid.

Do teen girls need a skincare routine?

Teenage girls need a skincare routine because puberty causes significant hormonal changes that can impact the skin, says dermatologist Dr Rashmi Aderao. These changes often result in common skin issues such as acne or heightened sensitivity. By using gentle cleansers, moisturisers, and sunscreen, teens can manage these issues without overwhelming their delicate skin.

Teen girls should stick to a simple, effective skincare routine with products suited to their skin type:

1. For oily skin

• Cleansing: They should use a gentle foaming or gel-based cleanser that helps control oil and prevents clogged pores.
• Moisturising: Even oily skin needs hydration, so make them go for a lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturiser to prevent overproduction of oil.
• Sunscreen: Applying an oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen with at least Sun Protection Factor or SPF 30 daily can protect against ultra rays.

2. For dry skin

• Cleansing: Using a cream-based, hydrating cleanser will make sure it won’t strip their skin of its natural oils.
• Moisturising: Applying a richer, cream-based moisturiser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides can deeply hydrate their skin.
• Sunscreen: Choosing a hydrating sunscreen with SPF 30 can prevent dryness.

3. For combination skin

• Cleansing: Make them use a gentle, balancing cleanser to control oil in the T-zone, which is their forehead, nose, and chin, while maintaining hydration in dry areas.
• Moisturising: let them opt for a lightweight moisturiser for oily areas and a slightly richer one for drier areas.
• Sunscreen: Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen suitable for all skin types will ensure protection without causing breakouts.

4. For sensitive skin

• Cleansing: If you have a teen daughter with sensitive skin, let them use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser designed for sensitive skin.
• Moisturising: Make them choose a gentle, soothing moisturiser with ingredients like aloe vera or ceramides to calm irritation.
• Sunscreen: Using a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide will be beneficial, as it’s less likely to cause irritation.

What are the skincare ingredients teens should not use?

Teen skin is delicate, so avoiding certain harsh ingredients is crucial. Here are some of them.

1. Fragrances and perfumes

Fragrances are often added to moisturisers or cleansers. Beauty ingredients with fragrances are one of the most frequent causes of contact allergic reactions, according to a 2012 review published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. They can cause allergic reactions or irritate sensitive skin of teen girls.

2. Parabens

They are commonly used as preservatives in creams and makeup. Parabens have endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can interfere with the normal functioning of the thyroid, according to research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in 2023. “Parabens may lead to hormonal disruptions, especially in girls, so it is best to stay away from them,” says the expert.

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3. Sulfates

Sulfates are often found in cleansers due to their cleansing as well as foaming properties. But using them is a bad idea, as they can take away natural oils from skin, and leave it dry and prone to irritation.

4. Retinoids

Retinoids have anti-wrinkle properties that strengthen the protective function of the epidermis, and protect collagen against degradation, as per research published in the Advances in Dermatology and Allergology journal in 2019. “They are effective for people looking for anti-ageing ingredients, but are too strong for young skin. They can lead to skin peeling and increased sun sensitivity in teens,” says Dr Aderao.

5. Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone can help to prevent uneven pigmentation, as per research published in StatPearls in 2023. “It is a skin-lightening agent, but is too strong for young skin and should be avoided unless recommended by a dermatologist,” says the expert.

6. Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid can be used to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of ageing, as per research published in the Molecules journal in 2018. The alpha-hydroxy acid is often used in skincare to exfoliate and brighten the skin by removing dead skin cells. While glycolic acid can be beneficial for certain skin concerns like hyperpigmentation and uneven texture, it may not be suitable for teens, as it is too harsh for sensitive, developing skin. “It can cause irritation, redness, and even peeling, which can aggravate common teenage skin issues like acne or oiliness,” says the expert.

Which skincare ingredients are safe for teenagers?

Several safe and effective skincare ingredients are suitable for teenage skin. Here are some of them:

1. Hyaluronic acid

It is an excellent hydrator that draws moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and smooth without clogging pores. “For acne-prone teens, benzoyl peroxide (in concentrations of 2.5 to 5 percent) helps kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation,” says the expert.

2. Salicylic acid

Using salicylic acid up to 2 percent concentration can gently exfoliate their skin, and unclog pores. It can help manage acne without overly drying their skin. But make sure the concentration does not go above 2 percent, as it can cause skin irritation.

3. Niacinamide

It is a form of vitamin B3 that can help control oil from face. Also, using niacinamide is good for skin, as it reduces redness, and improves overall skin texture.

4. Aloe vera

Be it a teenager or elderly woman, aloe vera is beneficial for the skin of women of any age. “It is a calming ingredient that soothes irritated or sunburned skin while providing hydration,” says the expert.

Avoid trendy products and stick to those with proven ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide for acne-prone skin. Teens only need a few basic steps — a mild cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen. It is important to skip unnecessary steps like harsh toners or aggressive treatments unless recommended by a dermatologist.