Being a teenager can feel like getting on a rollercoaster ride, and while there are a lot of exciting highs that come with having your first crush and starting high school, there are also going to be some lows. For instance, one such low that most teenagers struggle with is acne, and it can seriously affect self-confidence.
If this sounds like you, it’s important to know you’re not alone. At least 85% of people in their teens and even early adulthood years experience some type of acne. This has affected young people in many ways, from seeking treatments to dealing with self-esteem issues. That is precisely why starting a good skincare routine is so important in your teenage years. And here’s how you can do just that:
Start with a basic cleanser and moisturizer
Teenage skin can be sensitive due to acne and other conditions, so it’s best to reduce the chances of irritation with the most essential products. Find a cleanser that is gentle rather than overly stripping to prevent your skin from producing excess oil. It’s best to stick with non-comedogenic products that won’t clog your pores, like Cetaphil. And if you wear makeup, use a gentle product like micellar water to take it off first before cleansing.
The same rules apply to moisturizers. Those with oily skin will benefit from lighter formulas that won’t feel heavy on the face or clog the pores. Creams are better for teens with dry skin. But no matter your skin type, it’s important to avoid any fragrances in your cleansers and moisturizers to steer clear of irritation.
Invest in anti-aging products
In the past, anti-aging products were considered essential only after someone began seeing wrinkles in their skin. However, prevention is more effective than treatment, so you can start investing in anti-aging products as early as your teenage years.
One way that anti-aging skincare regimens work is by using peptide technology. The skin is comprised of proteins called elastin and collagen, which naturally decrease as we age. This leads to the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin. Peptides help replenish these essential compounds to restore elasticity and firmness to the skin, keeping it soft and supple. Using a nightly moisturizer with peptides in your routine can help keep your skin looking youthful and healthy. Starting on an anti-aging regimen early helps keep skin supple and fresh as you age.
Use anti-acne treatments
Breakouts are one of the most frustrating parts of being a teen, especially since they happen at the most inconvenient times. While breakouts are likely to keep occurring, the right spot treatment will help you keep zits at bay.
Getting products that prevent and treat your breakouts is essential to anti-acne skincare. Face washes with salicylic acid are ideal for teenage skin because they are gentle enough while working to clear breakouts before they happen. Benzoyl peroxide ointments, on the other hand, are best for treating pimples that are already there. Simply use it as a spot treatment to dry your pimple out more quickly.
Having the right products is important for any beginner starting their skincare routine. However, it is also important to remember that the skin’s health is affected in other ways. Whether you’re following skincare tips like not sleeping with makeup on or using just recommended products, taking care of your skin inside and out will help the most.