Wellness journal/Teen self-care
Teen self-care · Teens & families

Teen skin: a simple routine is enough

Gentle cleansing, moisturising, sun protection and support when skin worries you.

General education, not individual medical advice. Retailer links may earn us a commission.

Illustrative adult skincare lifestyle photograph
AI-created lifestyle illustration.
  1. 01Start with gentle basics.
  2. 02Skip adult anti-ageing trends.
  3. 03Ask for help with persistent acne.
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Build a short routine

A gentle cleanser, a suitable moisturiser and sun protection are a useful place to start. Avoid harsh scrubbing, repeatedly washing oily skin, or picking spots. Introduce changes carefully and follow product directions. Breakouts are not a sign that someone is dirty.

Healthdirect: acne and skin care (opens in a new tab)

Don't copy every adult skincare trend

The Royal Children's Hospital advises that teens rarely benefit from the strong active ingredients popular in adult skincare. Retinol and other trending actives may irritate young skin. A clinician can recommend an appropriate treatment when acne needs one; that is different from building a routine around an influencer's haul.

Royal Children's Hospital: acne and teen skin health (opens in a new tab)

Care for confidence too

Social photos and filters are not a fair standard for real skin. If acne is painful, leaves marks, affects confidence or is not improving, talk with a pharmacist or GP and involve a trusted adult when helpful. You do not need a perfect complexion or a basket of products to deserve feeling comfortable.

Royal Children's Hospital: acne and teen skin health (opens in a new tab)

Simple skincare basics

3 finds

These are shopping examples, not an acne treatment plan. Check the product suits your skin.

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