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Let’s be real about skincare and ignore the hype. If TikTok has you convinced you need a dozen products, your teens skin doesn’t need all that.
Your skin is doing pretty well on its own. It already has natural moisture and collagen. The main problem? Hormones—they ramp up oil production, which can mean breakouts and extra shine.
But here’s the good news: you only need three steps. Seriously, just three.
The 3-Step Routine That Actually Works
Step 1: Cleanser (Morning and Night)
Washing your face gets rid of dirt, oil, and whatever else ends up on your skin. That’s all you need.
What to use that I recommend:
– CeraVe Acne Treatment Face Wash for acne & oily skin
– Aveeno Facial Cleanser for dry skin and soothing sensitive skin
Use lukewarm water, gently massage the cleanser in circles, rinse, and pat dry. Twice a day is enough—washing more can make your skin produce extra oil.
Step 2: Moisturizer (Don’t Skip This—Even With Oily Skin)
You might think, “My skin is already oily,” but skipping moisturizer makes your skin create even more oil.
Look for:
– Lightweight, oil-free moisturizer
– Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
– Gel type for oily skin, richer cream for dry skin
Apply it right after cleansing, while your skin is still a little damp. This locks in moisture.
Step 3: Sunscreen (Every Day, No Matter What)
If you do one thing for your skin’s future, wear sunscreen. Sun damage builds up over time, and what you do now matters.
What to get:
– SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum
– Mineral sunscreen if possible (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide). I recommend EltaMD Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide.
– Fragrance-free options
Put it on every morning—cloudy or sunny, hot or cold. UV rays are always there.
Dealing With Acne?
For the occasional pimple, use a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. I recommend this. Start with the lowest strength, use it every other day at first. And don’t pick at pimples—it only makes things worse and can cause scars.
If you’re dealing with lots of acne, see a dermatologist. They have treatments that actually work.
Ingredients to Avoid
Some things are just too harsh for your skin right now:
– Retinol (unless a dermatologist tells you)
– Strong acids (like powerful glycolic or lactic acid)
– Anti-aging creams—you don’t need them
– Fragrances (they can irritate)
It’s More Than Just Products
A few habits help your skin a lot:
– Don’t touch your face (hands carry oil and germs)
– Change your pillowcase weekly
– Drink water (your skin benefits)
– Eat well (fruits, veggies, lean protein)
Here’s the Real Secret
Forget complicated routines and expensive products. All you need is cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen every day. That’s the secret.
Your skin already knows what to do. Be gentle, don’t overload it. Give it time—skin changes happen over weeks, not days. And remember: what works for someone online might not work for you, and that’s totally okay.
Keep it simple. Stick with it. You’re doing great teens ^^