I have so many questions from parents about their child's skins. It can be a concerning time for parents as they are not always sure how to approach the matter with their kids and also, if they will even listen!
Unfortunately, around 80% of teens from the age for 13-18 will suffer with hormonal acne at some point.
For any of you who are struggling with your teenagers skin, here are my top tips about how to keep their skin clean and healthy for when those hormones strike!
CLEANSE CORRECTLY
Avoid those harsh face washes and scrubs on their young skin. Anything that foams up will more than likely contain Sodium Laureth Sulphate which is a very irritating ingredient used to make products foam up.
This can then damage the skin's natural barrier, upset the oil production and cause a dry, flaky and yet oily skin.
Opt for a gentle face wash such as the Nimue Youth Face Wash. This is much more gentle than some of the harsh ones on the market and will help clean pores deep down.
CLEANSE BEFORE BEDTIME
Leading on from above, make sure they wash their face before bed (whether they have had makeup on or not). Leaving oil and grime on the skin overnight can lead to further breakouts.
DON'T TOUCH YOUR FACE
The more they touch their skin during the day, the more chance they can spread germs and bacteria. Always make sure their hands are clean to avoid further spreading of spots.
EXFOLIATE REGULARLY
I would recommend they exfoliate their skin once or twice a week with an enzyme exfoliator. I love the Nimue Exfoliating Enzyme as it's very gentle and yet effective. Avoid any harsh scrubs such as ground apricot kernels. These will scratch, tear and damage the skin. They can also spread spots and prevent the skin from healing.
WEAR SUNSCREEN
Just always, everyday! We want to protect their skin from sun damage, scarring and also ageing. SPF should be worn every day whether the sun is out or not.
AVOID ANY TANNING BEDS
For obvious reasons really. They can cause so much damage to the skin plus there is a risk of skin cancer when using them so they are best avoided.
EAT A WELL BALANCED DIET
Ideally, they want to try and avoid anything too high in sugar and fat. Processed junk foods can really cause havoc with the skin. It can lead to breakouts and further problems (especially as it causes so much damage in the gut!).
I would also recommend a good probiotic to maintain gut health (poor gut health can lead to acne too).
DON'T PICK SPOTS
Again, for obvious reasons. Picking spots can cause scarring and also spreading more bacteria. Always get spots extracted professionally by a facialist.
AVOID HEAVY MAKEUP
It can be so tempting to wear a heavier coverage foundation when we have breakouts and then primers as well to stop that shiny t-zone. Unfortunately, these products can very easily block pores and cause even more breakouts. Instead, I recommend a tinted SPF/moisturiser and then 'pinpoint conceal' any blemishes with a high quality concealer (I love Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage) and eye liner brush.
Following all these tips should really help prevent breakouts. Unfortunately, we can be fighting a losing battle sometimes with hormones. If we can do our best to keep on top of our skincare though, we have a better chance of succeeding.
Thanks so much for reading,
Emmaline