Your child’s hygiene habits become more important, not less important, as they get older. Raging hormones, peer pressure to look a certain way, and increased sweat production can all affect your teenager’s skin.
Shower Frequently
One of the best ways to control excessive sweat production, body odor, acne, and oil production is to shower daily, preferably right before bed. It is also important to make sure that all cosmetic products are washed off daily, whether through makeup remover wipes or a facial cleanser.
Use The Right Cleanser
Your teen may need some assistance finding the right skincare products for their dry, combination, or oily skin. The wrong cleanser can dry out your child’s skin, clog pores, or worsen the presence of acne.
Don’t Pick Acne
As tempting as it is, it is never a good idea to squeeze, pop, or otherwise mess with acne. Make sure your teen knows the consequences of these actions, which can cause infection or even lead to permanent scars.
Do Treat Acne
Acne doesn’t have to go untreated. The right acne products can help your teen feel more confident with their skin and even eliminate acne scars. There is a range of acne treatments on the market, from soap bars and body washes to patches and oral medications. If your child struggles with acne, be sure to discuss their options with a dermatologist or your pediatrician today.
Avoid Touching The Face
Our fingers and hands carry so much oil, dirt, and grime with them. The more we touch our face, the more likely we are to experience acne, blackheads, and clogged pores. As we’ve already grown accustomed to during the pandemic, the advice still stands – don’t touch your face.
Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Teens at this age may not think it’s “cool” to wear sunscreen, but kids and adults of all ages need to consider the importance of sun protection. Skin cancer is a real threat and can occur at nearly any age. Whether through the use of tinted SPF moisturizers or daily sunscreen application, make sure your teen covers up before heading outside and takes other measures to limit sun exposure. Since excessive sun exposure can also lead to wrinkles and other skin damage, their adult selves will thank you later on! Oh, and it should go without saying to avoid tanning beds of all kinds.
Check Expirations
Teens would do well to remember to frequently check for and discard any expired or otherwise damaged skincare and cosmetic products. This is especially important when it comes to makeup products that see heavy use, such as mascara or eyeliner, and should be discarded every few months. The reason is that bacteria and other nasty germs can lurk in products that are used daily or are past their prime.
Similarly, makeup brushes and applicators should be cleaned or disinfected regularly, and makeup should never be shared with others.
If your teen needs assistance with their skin hygiene or a condition such as acne, please give us a call to set up an appointment with one of our knowledgeable pediatricians.
