How Do I Choose the Best Skin Care for Teens?

When choosing skin care for teens, it's important to consider the teenager's skin type and condition. Many teenagers suffer from at least occasional acne breakouts, although their skin type may range from dry to oily. In many cases, good skin care for teens is based on mild, non-irritating products that clean the face thoroughly so as to discourage acne breakouts. Teenagers who suffer from breakouts typically can benefit from the use of over-the-counter acne medications, though some may need to receive professional services from a dermatologist.

Teenagers undergo significant hormonal changes as they mature. This can result in skin that produces excess oil and that is prone to acne. Unfortunately, some teenagers and their parents respond to these changes by purchasing a plethora of harsh, so-called medicated products that may do more harm than good. If you or your teenage child are concerned about acne and excess oil, it is important to keep in mind that harsh products will only irritate skin, which will trigger additional oil and breakouts. This irritation will also make breakouts look worse.

Choose cleansers that remove makeup effectively while also not contributing to irritation. Typically, this means choosing liquid facial cleansers that do not contain any fragrance. If a teenager has acne, he or she should find an over-the-counter product that contains benzoyl peroxide to treat blemishes. If you find that any of these products irritate the skin, stop using them and find another product. Just because a product is marketed as skin care for teens does not necessarily mean that it is suitable for all teenagers, so don't hesitate to stop using a product if it isn't working or aggravates a condition.

Sun protection is wise at any age, so it is a good idea to find an oil-free sunblock for use on the face and body during the day. Sun damage is cumulative, so it is a good idea to begin using sunscreen now. Additional moisturizers or creams may not be necessary unless the teen naturally has dry skin. Teenage girls may wish to choose makeup products, such as foundation or tinted moisturizer, that also contains sunblock for additional protection.

Acne that does not resolve with the use of appropriate cleansers and over-the-counter products should be treated by a doctor. Some types of acne, such as cystic acne, can be disfiguring, so it is a good idea to speak to your family doctor or dermatologist about your options. In some cases, even the best topical skin care for teens is not effective for treating severe acne, and your teenager may need to take medication to treat his or her condition.