Many parents are working hard to uncover the science of the teenager. From parenting podcasts to following Instagram therapists, understanding your youngster seems like a 9-5 in itself. And that’s just their emotional well-being. Their skin is another facet of their health that shouldn’t be left undiscovered (nor underserved). The body's largest organ, the skin, is the protective barrier that helps with immunity and fights infection. This master organ keeps your child guarded against mechanical, physical and thermal injury. It also prevents loss of moisture and reduces the harmful effects of UV rays. Quite the hero? However, it does need help, and by the time children hit their tweens (around 10 years old), a simple skincare routine can keep their young skin prepared for the evolution ahead. What do they need? Skincare solutions that are effective yet easy (anything 10 steps should be shunned) with doctor-lead advice when things get tricky.
Anatomy of Skin: Your Teen’s Biology Matters
The science of skin is its own little world. In short, there’s something on the surface of skin that microorganisms want, and while these sparse nutrients aren’t an all-you-can-eat buffet, skin microorganisms have adapted to use what they can get. And they’re a diverse mix of bacteria, fungi and viruses, all making up the overall microbiome of the skin. If you’re feeling like grabbing your teen and heading to the bathroom, facial cleanser in hand, we get it. But the point of all of this is it’s actually there to serve and protect you. In other words, these tiny critters are supposed to be there to help fight infection, work in harmony with your immune system, heal wounds, and control inflammation. Your microbiome is built to be pretty stable, so it’s not something to worry about when your child is young. However, when your tween hits puberty, along comes an increase in sebum (oil), which certain bacteria love. And before your eyes, a smooth-faced child morphs into a pimply teenager. Acne is a whole other situation, but the link between skin health and gut health is strong. So, if you want to support your child’s microbiome during this time, look at what else is happening. Diet, exercise and lifestyle habits. Encourage clean eating, probiotics and working out as well as healthy lifestyle choices. Get their gut health balanced, and it should show up on their skin.
A Spot of Trouble: When Acne Means Intervention
As if this phase of life isn’t bumpy enough, now your precious has breakouts, blackheads and pimples to contend with. Don’t wave their concerns aside. If it’s real for them, take it seriously. Acne and self-esteem are interconnected, and as studies tell us, the more they feel overwhelmed, the more their confidence is knocked. Ideally, acne treatment should be gentle and under expert advice without anything that’s further going to inflame the skin or become a chore. You know your child; will they stick with a rigorous program or need something seamless? Finding that solution and then giving them the autonomy to run with it may be the best plan. And if that means an appointment with a skilled medical aesthetic doctor – and perhaps alone if needed – then that can further put them in the driver’s seat of their skin health. After all, while your goal might be the treatment of acne, your teen’s skin needs ongoing support for the rest of their lives. And to give them the tools to make this happen, treat skin wellbeing like a visit to the dentist. Mandatory.
Lean Into The Essentials: Getting Skincare Right From The Start
Your daughter may think she needs a serum collection to rival yours, but make her put the retinol down and walk away. For starters, cleansing, moisturiser and SPF will do. Nothing that strips the skin is key, so a gentle wash that’s non-comedogenic means it won’t clog pores. Add a moisturiser that fits their skin type and condition. In other words, a light gel moisturiser for acne-prone skin, as science shows teens inclined to pimples, will break out less if the skin is well hydrated. Some teens may need a pimple patch or targeted treatment but have dry skin thirsty for more oil. Without it, skin becomes brittle and fragile, like a dried-out leaf or flower petal. It cracks (often at the microscopic level) and becomes very irritable and sensitive. So, for dry, sensitive skin, reach for moisturiser products with humectants and emollients. In other words, active ingredients that replenish the skin barrier.
Time to get your teen in treatment?
From a Deep cleanse and PDT to chemical peels such as the SA + MA Peel (salicylic and mandelic acids), Beta (salicylic) and Azelaic peel, which all work wonders for balancing oily skin and treating acne while lifting congestion and calming breakouts. Think of skin therapy as medical therapy and treating the body’s largest organ.
We are forever mindful that treatments alone are insufficient, and homecare is an essential pillar of health. Skin Renewal's skincare range is where science meets results. Packed with high-strength actives and formulated by doctors, these products deliver next-level performance without the luxury price tag. Dr Maureen, Skin Renewals, Founder and Medical Director, explains that Skin Renewals medical grade formulations are a game changer for your teen's skin. The Azelaic cream and Skin Renewal Brightening cream with Vit A yield impressive results. Dr Maureen further explains that over and above topical treatments, supplements are key, and Acne Aid 2 in 1 and High Potency Zinc are two Skin Renewal supplements that are a potent addition to your teen's home care regime.
While the latest product haul from their lust-after beauty brand might give them an instant dopamine hit, clearer and healthier skin will help their well-being long-term.