A woman doing skincare

Finding the best skincare for teens can be a daunting task! With all the Tik Tok beauty trends and conflicting information out there, it’s hard to know where to start. And when you add in hormones, giving you teen acne, and changing skin types, it’s easy to feel like you are entering into a never-ending battle against your skin. 

We know you must be super-exposed to the beauty industry influencers giving "skin care talk" all over the internet. They probably have warned you about the dangers of not taking care of your skin, and now you're finally ready to start using skincare products. But where do you start? What should you buy? And how often should you be using them?

So many questions, right? Don’t worry – we are here to help! 

In this post, we will share our top tips for taking care of your skin during those tumultuous teen years. So read on, and let us help you slay the skin care game!

Why skin care for teenagers is a biggie?

During our teenage years, our skin goes through a lot of changes. Hormones are raging and we are starting to experience things like acne breakouts and oily skin for the first time. It can be a hard period for our skin!

The teenage years are a crucial time for skin care, since it's during this time that many teens first start to experience more serious skin problems. And while some teens are lucky enough to have glowing, normal skin, others have to deal with skin pigmentation, clogged pores, dry skin, excessive oil production, and the list goes on and on…

Don’t believe us yet? Well, the nasty hormones that are all over the place can make your oil glands produce excess oil, which can clog pores and give you pimples. Teen skin also tends to have more sensitive skin than adults, making them more susceptible to irritation.

That's why it's so important for you to know all the tips and tricks for teen skincare! A good skincare routine can help prevent or minimize the appearance of acne and other skin problems. It can also help keep your skin looking its best as you transition into adulthood.

Top 4 universally known skin concerns in teens

Hormones are everywhere and your skin knows it! Here are the most common skin problems you may encounter during your teenage years: 

Teen acne

Acne-prone skin is a normal skin condition that happens when oil and dead skin cells clog your pores. It can cause whiteheads, blackheads, or acne breakouts. It is caused by hormonal changes and can be treated with over-the-counter skin care products, like acne treatments with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.

For some people, adolescent acne comes and goes away after a few years. But for others, it can last into adulthood. 

Dry skin

Some overproduce oil, others stop producing oil when they enter their teenage years! 

Dry skin happens when the skin produces less oil than it did during childhood. This can lead to flaking, itching, and redness. Using a moisturizer can help to alleviate these symptoms.

Oily skin

Oily skin happens when your glands produce way too much oil *aka sebum*. Sebum is an oil that helps keep the skin moisturized and protected. However, when there is too much sebum, it can lead to acne breakouts.

There are a few things that can cause “greasy” skin, including hormones, diet, and genetics. 

Hormonal changes during puberty are the most common cause of oily skin in teenagers. Eating certain foods can also trigger excess oil production. And lastly, if your parents had oily skin, there's a good chance you will too.

Oversensitive skin

Sensitive skin is a common skin type for teenagers. This is because the skin is going through so many changes during this time. Hormones are raging and the skin is adjusting to new environments, products, and stressors. All of this can lead to redness and irritation, which can get you uneven skin tone. 

The 15 GOAT teenage skin care tips for clear skin

Teenage years can be a little salty. For instance, you could be gossiping with your BFF about the latest news during recess. However, sometimes you have to deal with skin problems that can destroy your confidence and make you want to roll over your blanket and become a burrito… But that stops today! 

So, if you are looking at a gross pimple right now, and are wondering “how to get clear skin as a teenager?”, here are our favorite tips and tricks for teenage skin that will make you have clear, youthful skin: 

1. You need a gentle cleanser, no cap

Wash your face with facial cleanser twice per day, morning and night. Avoid harsh soaps, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and make acne worse- this means that you can’t use the same soap you use for your body-. 

Most of the time, teenagers tend to have oily skin types. This is because their sebaceous glands are working overtime due to hormonal changes. As a result, their skin can become greasy and covered in blemishes. 

While it is tempting to scrub away the oil and dirt on your face, using a harsh cleanser will only irritate your skin and make the problem worse. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser that won't strip away your essential oils.

Pro-tip: You can choose “oil-free” cleansers if your skin is too oily!

Facial Cleanser
Bye Bye Blackhead 30 Days Miracle Green Tea Tox Bubble Cleanser - Asian Beauty Essentials
Facial Cleanser Bye Bye Blackhead 30 Days Miracle Green Tea Tox Bubble Cleanser
Sale price$22.00

2. Exfoliating is a must

Gen Z’s often think that exfoliating is only important for those with acne-prone skin. However, even if you don't have acne, exfoliating your skin can still be beneficial. 

For starters, exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. This can leave your skin feeling soft.

On the other hand, using a facial scrub or a chemical exfoliant- like salicylic acid- also allows skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin. This means that they will be more effective at treating any existing blemishes or preventing future breakouts.

So, gently exfoliate your skin just once a week to make a world of difference for your skin! If you start exfoliating during your teenage years, you'll be thanking yourself later on down the road. Trust us, your future adult skin will thank you! 

3. Moisturizers will be your new bae

As we all know, teenage skin goes through a lot of changes. And one of the most important things you can do for your skin is to use a good moisturizer!

There are many benefits of using moisturizer for teenagers. For one, it helps to keep hydrated and healthy skin. This is important because hydrated skin is less likely to get dry and irritated. 

Additionally, moisturizers can help to protect the skin from environmental damage like pollution and UV rays.

Another great benefit of using moisturizer as a teenager is that it can help to prevent breakouts *aka nasty pimples*. This is because when the skin is properly hydrated, it's less likely to produce excess oil which can lead to clogged pores and adolescent acne.

So, if you're a teenager or have a teenager in your life, be sure to encourage them to use a good moisturizer every day. It can make a big difference in their skin's health!

4. Don’t say “no” to sunscreen

Yes, we all know the feeling when you were a kid and our moms covered us in a thick layer of sunscreen that made us look like a ghost… But sunscreen is a big “yes” even when you are not drinking non alcoholic piñas coladas at the beach! 

Most people think that sunscreen is only necessary during the summer when we are more likely to be outside and exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, it is just as important to wear sunscreen during the winter months or when you are just going to school.

While the sun’s rays may not be as strong during the winter or spring, they can still cause damage to your skin. Wearing sun protection will help shield your skin from the sun’s rays and prevent premature aging *because you don’t want to be 18 and have wrinkles, right?*

Choose a sunscreen with an SP of at least 30 and that includes ingredients like zinc oxide, and apply it at the end of your skincare routine. 

Sun Protection
Anessa Perfect UV Skin Care Milk A SPF 50+ Pokemon Squirtle Edition
Sun Protection Anessa Perfect UV Skin Care Milk A SPF 50+ Pokemon Squirtle Edition
Sale price$50.00

5. Spot treatments are lit!

Most teenagers are very self-conscious about their skin and are always looking for ways to treat their skin prone to blemishes or pimples. 

Spot treatments are a great way to target specific areas on the face that are prone to breakouts. Using a spot treatment will help to dry out acne and make it less noticeable. 

It is important to use this as soon as a pimple appears, otherwise, it will take longer to heal.

There are many different types of spot treatments available on the market, so it is crucial to find one that works well for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to try an all-natural spot treatment that contains ingredients like tea tree or witch hazel. If you have oily skin, you may want to try a spot treatment that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Of course, it is also important to make sure that you are using a proper skincare routine in general. This means cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing your skin on a daily basis. However, if you do get a blemish, using a spot treatment will help to clear it up quickly.

Acne Treatment
Acne Spot Patch Super Thin
Acne Treatment Acne Spot Patch Super Thin
Sale price$7.00
Acne Treatment
Minions Blemish Patch - Asian Beauty Essentials
Acne Treatment Minions Blemish Patch
Sale price$7.00

6. Don’t pop pimples, period

If you are a teen, probably you are suffering from pimples right now. And while it may be tempting to pop them, this can actually make your pimple bigger and redder! 

Picking can lead to scars, and squeezing can make acne worse. If a pimple is popped incorrectly, bacteria can be spread throughout the face, causing more breakouts. So resist the urge to pop! Just let those zits be and put on pimple patches to stop you from toaching them. 

So what's the best way to deal with pimples? The first step is to resist the urge to pop them. Instead, gently wash your face to cleanse pores and apply an acne treatment if necessary. Be sure to moisturize your face as well, as this will help keep your skin healthy and prevent further breakouts.

7. Throw shade at touching your face

Maybe you don’t know this, but acne is the most normal skin concern in the States. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, about 40 to 50 million Americans have acne at any given time. Acne usually begins during puberty, and teenagers are particularly susceptible because their bodies are going through so many changes.

One of the best things a teenager can do for their skin is to avoid touching it too much. That means no picking or squeezing anything! 

Our hands are full of bacteria and when we touch our faces, we’re transferring that bacteria onto our skin. This can cause breakouts and other problems. 

So, if you want to keep your skin looking its best, it’s important to keep your hands away from your face!

And, if you want to do some touchy-touchy, wash your hands first!

8. The right skincare products should be part of your squad

The skin is the most notorious organ in the human body and it serves as a barrier to protect us from harmful environmental factors. 

The teenage years are a crucial time for skincare because that is when the skin is going through many changes. Hormonal changes during puberty can cause the skin to produce more oil, which can lead to breakouts. It is important for teenagers to use products that are designed for their skin type and needs in order to maintain healthy skin.

In this sense, using the wrong skincare products can be a big disaster for your skin! For example, using an astringent toner every day in oily skin can strip away too much oil from it, causing it to overcompensate by producing even more oil. This can create a vicious cycle of breakouts that is difficult to break out of, making your skin worse. 

It is necessary to know your skin type and buy products formulated for it. That way you can avoid doing more damage than good. 

Don’t know your skin type yet? Click here to discover it! 

9. Stay away from comedogenics

Okay, so, you already get that, as a teenager, your skin is still developing and it can be more prone to breakouts, right? Well, comedogenic ingredients can make you even more prone to pimples and blackheads! 

Let us explain: comedogenics are just a fancy word for “pore-clogging ingredients”. This means that they are elements that, instead of helping you to get young skin, it makes it generate more oil and acne. 

So, how can you stay away from comedogenics? Know them and always read the labels to identify them! Also, take into account that some natural skincare ingredients, like organic coconut oil or mineral oil, may seem harmless, but are comedogenics. 

Using products that are non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) can help reduce the chances of blemishes. Look for skincare products that are labeled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free." 

10. Keep your hair clean and off your face

One of the most important things that teenagers can do for their skin is to keep their hair clean and off their face. 

When your hair comes into contact with your face, it can transfer oils and dirt which can clog oil glands and generate breakouts in your forehead. In addition, long hair can be irritating for delicate skin when it constantly falls into the face. 

If you have long hair or bangs, be sure to keep it pulled back away from your face.

11. Sharing brushes and skincare tools is a big no-no

Yes, we know you love to get ready for the parties with your BFF and that you share everything, but this has to stop! 

You might think it's no big deal to share makeup or skincare products with your friends, but it can actually be quite dangerous. Don’t believe us? Here's why: 

  • Sharing makeup can lead to the spread of bacteria and infection. 
  • If you have any cuts or open wounds on your skin, sharing makeup can also lead to the spread of infection. 
  • Makeup and skincare products can contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. So, if your friend uses harsh chems, this could affect your skin!
  • If you have sensitive skin, using someone else's skincare products can cause a reaction. 

So next time you're tempted to share makeup or skincare products with your besties, think twice! It’s not worth it!

12. Pillows, phone screens, and towels should be tidy!

We often don't think about how important it is to keep our pillows and phone screens clean. Our skin comes into contact with these things every day, and if they're covered in bacteria, that can lead to pimples and blackheads. 

That’s why, washing your pillowcase at least once a week, and wiping down your phone screen with a disinfecting wipe every day should be part of your teenage skincare routine. 

13. A healthy diet is not that basic!

Are you one of those teens that think they can eat whatever they want because their metabolism is as fast as a new Tik Tok trend getting viral? Well, you are wrong! 

Why? Because what you eat shows up on your skin. If you're eating lots of greasy, processed foods, it's likely that your skin will reflect that. On the other hand, if you're eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, your skin will look much healthier.

A healthy diet won't just improve your skin; it will also give you more energy, help regulate your moods, and promote overall health. So if you're looking to get your skincare game on track, start with what you're putting into your body. It'll make a world of difference.

14. Drinking water is a no-brainer

Dehydration can cause dryness, which leads to flakiness and premature wrinkles. Drinking water helps keep skin cells plump and hydrated, giving the skin barrier a healthy glow.

To get the most benefits, teens should aim to drink eight glasses of water per day. If plain water isn't appealing, adding slices of lemon or lime can help make it more palatable. Herbal teas are also a good option and can provide additional skincare benefits depending on the type of tea chosen. 

For example, green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling.

15. Stick to your teen skincare routine

It's no secret that skincare is important. But what many people don't realize is that skincare is just as important during your teenage years as it is when you're an adult.

There are a few reasons why skincare is so important for teens. For one, teen skin is more prone to breakouts and other skin problems. This is because the hormones produced during puberty can cause the oil glands to produce more oil than usual.

Too much oil production on the skin can cause acne. That's why it's so necessary for teens to use a face wash on their skin twice a day with a cleanser. Exfoliating once or twice a week will also help to keep the pores clear and prevent breakouts.

In addition to being more prone to breakouts, teen skin is also more susceptible to damage from the sun. That's why you need to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Lastly, skincare for teens is a must because it can help to prevent premature aging. Your future thirty year old self will appreciate this, trust us!

Using products with antioxidants, like a vitamin c serum, and other anti-aging ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, can help to protect the skin from damage that leads to wrinkles and fine lines.

So if you're a teen, don't neglect your skincare routine! Stick with it and your skin will thank you later. 

Teenage skincare routine tips depending on your skin types

With so many skincare brands and products, you must be wondering what you should be looking for and what you should be avoiding depending on your skin type. 

So, what should you be doing if you are acne-prone or have combination skin? Let us unwrap some teen’s skincare routine tips for you:

Oily and acne-prone skin

If your teenage skin is oily or acne-prone skin, you know that finding the right skincare regime can be a challenge. There are so many topical treatments out there and it can be hard to know which ones will work for you.

Here are some skincare routine tips that may help: 

  • Use a foaming cleanser to remove excess oil and clean your pores. Moreover, a foaming face wash usually contains ingredients such as glycerin or tea tree oil which can help to soothe and calm the skin.
    • On the other hand, sulfur cleansers with acne-fighting natural ingredients like salicylic acid can be a great option for your skin.
  • Look for skincare products that are non-comedogenic or oil-free. This means they won't clog your pores or make your skin oily.
  • Choose an acne treatment that contains ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help control oil and breakouts.
  • Use a light, oil-free moisturizer with natural ingredients aloe vera or jojoba oil to help keep your skin hydrated and treat acne.
  • A natural antiseptic like clay could work as a face mask for you since it can absorb oil and hydrate your skin.

Facial Cleanser
Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam - Asian Beauty Essentials
Facial Cleanser Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam
Sale price$19.00
Facial Cleanser
The Chok Chok Green Tea Cleansing Water - Asian Beauty Essentials
Facial Cleanser The Chok Chok Green Tea Cleansing Water
Sale price$16.00

Combination skin

If you have combination skin, you know the drill: an oily T-zone and dry, flaky patches. The good news is that you can manage this type of skin with the right skincare products and techniques. Here are some tips to get you started:

  • Look for a gentle cleanser with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
  • Use a gentle exfoliator designed for combination skin; otherwise, you could end up irritating your skin
  • Layer your skincare products so that you can target both oily and dry areas. Start with a light serum or gel, then follow up with a thicker cream or lotion. And always apply a zinc oxide-rich sunscreen to avoid burns and skin cancer. 
  • Treat acne only in your T-zone with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.

Facial Cleanser
Softymo Cleansing Foam White - Asian Beauty Essentials
Facial Cleanser Softymo Cleansing Foam White
Sale price$15.00
Facial Cleanser
Honest Cleansing Foam - Asian Beauty Essentials
Facial Cleanser Honest Cleansing Foam
Sale price$18.00

Dry skin

As we discussed, teenage skin can get really dry, so if you want your skin supple and moisturized, you should follow these tips:

  • Stay away from drying ingredients like salicylic acid, alcohol, and sodium. 
  • Wash your face with mild cleansers.
  • Moisturize your skin properly every day. 
  • Include a hyaluronic acid serum during your nighttime routine and an antioxidants serum for your morning routine to avoid the blemishes and dark spots that come with dry skin. 
  • Choose a natural skincare regime instead of harsh chems skincare.

Moisturizer
Centella Calming Gel Cream - Asian Beauty Essentials
Moisturizer Centella Calming Gel Cream
Sale price$17.00

Sensitive skin

When you have oversensitive skin, you tend to be prone to allergic reactions, redness and inflammation, but with these tips, you’ll get a glowing complexion to die for!

  • Always do a patch test before including any skincare brand or product in your routine
  • Go for fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free products since harsh products can make you feel itchy. 
  • From your face wash to your sunscreen, all your products should be formulated for skin types
  • Anti-inflammatory and soothing products like aloe vera, jojoba, shea butter can balance skin tone and calm the redness in your skin

Body Care
Aloe Clean Water Formula 92% Shower Gel
Body Care Aloe Clean Water Formula 92% Shower Gel
Sale price$12.00
Body Care
Shea Butter and Coconut Body Lotion - Asian Beauty Essentials
Body Care Shea Butter and Coconut Body Lotion
Sale price$25.00

Skin care for teenagers: where to find the trendiest products

This is a call for all Gen Z! Now you know everything there is to know about teenage skin and how to treat it. 

Now, if you are addicted to the beauty side of Tik Tok- or love k-pop and k-dramas just like us- you must have watched all your faves influencers and idols talking about Asian skin care products as the ultimate trend to get awesome-looking skin. And they are not capping you! 

So, are you ready to buy the trendiest Asian products for your skin? You’ve come to the right place. Visit our shop to find everything from face wash to the best moisturizers for you!

What are you waiting for? Start shopping now!

1 comment

Vilvah

Vilvah

Fantastic article. Super interesting! We spend a lot for skin care product these days. We should use it for our skin health and doing something meaningful.

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