Tween and Teen Skincare
As we get older, our body chemistry begins to change and some funky things happen. We get taller, hair in weird spots, and the ever dreaded acne. Many of these things can be attributed to hormones, and while having a dedicated skincare routine can’t change your hormones, it can help with some of the present and future trials we may encounter as our bodies adjust. Acne may not last forever, but acne scarring, and discoloration can be a total drag as our skin begins to mature. It’s important to start your skincare routine early and stay on it regularly.
ROUTINE
First and foremost, routine! It is important to stay on routine with your skincare. Find a few products that work for you, and try to implement them day and night. The longer you stick to it, the easier it will become to stay in the habit, and the better your skin will look and feel! There are a few time-honored steps to work into your day/nightly routine.
Steps:
Cleanse:
The most basic step is cleansing. Take the day off with a cleanser that is catered to your skin type. If your skin is sensitive, you may need a more gentle cleanser. If your skintype is oily or acne prone, you may need something that has some added power, such as salicylic acid. If you’re wearing eye makeup, you should look into an eye makeup remover. This will ensure the sensitive eye area will be cleansed properly with minimal irritation. Once you have cleansed, rinse with warm water to help open the pores and wash away product. Move on to exfoliation, or pat dry before toner.
Exfoliate:
To help improve skin texture and slough away dry skin, and exfoliator is key. Generally, you can exfoliate around 2-3 times a week depending on skin condition. Anything more may strip way precious oils or cause irritation. Splash your skin with warm water to help the product glide smoothly over the skin, if your skin is not properly wet prior to applying the product, it may cause irritation. Exfoliants vary, but remember, they are abrasive products. Take the product into your finger tips, and apply to your face in gentle, circular motions. You may focus a little extra attention on areas that have more texture such as the nose or chin area. DO NOT use exfoliant on open sores, or scabs. Ouch! Pat dry and move onto toner.
Toner:
Toner is a powerhouse of a product, that is often overlooked. It provides extra cleansing power, with added benefits! Toner can help minimize pores, prevent ingrown hairs and mostly importantly, help restore the pH balance of your skin.
Most commonly, toners come in a spray bottle which makes for easy application. Some may come in a bottle that requires you to use a cotton ball or pad. For this type of toner, it is important to apply gently, and evenly while avoiding the eye area.
Serum
The serum step is a little lesser known but gaining more popularity in the skincare routine. Serums exist for all types of skin issues and skin goals. The most popular being vitamin c. Vitamin C serums helps promote collagen, the building block of skin. It is also an antioxidant which can help fight off free radicals and skin pollutants.
You can apply serum with fingers, a cotton pad or a jade roller. A jade roller will help stimulate the skin, and will not absorb product, it feels really cool too! Once you have applied the serum, you do not need to rinse it off. Serums can be applied day or night pending skin conditions.
Moisturizer
FINALLY! Your last step is moisturizer. Moisturizer is key in ensuring your skin stays fresh, hydrated and ready to take on the day. This can be done day or night, most can use one product for day and night. Some may opt for a heavier night cream if they have dryer skin. If your skin is more oily, then you will want to seek out a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. It is important to moisturize oily skin, otherwise your skin may overproduce oil to make up for it. Moisturizer can be applied with fingers, a cotton pad/ball or a jade roller too! When using fingers, apply in an upwards movement to help prevent drag and preserve skin elasticity.
That’s it! That is a routine, and while it may seem daunting at first, your skin will thank you. For some a skincare routine is self-care and can be therapeutic.
Sleep
We know, it’s Friday night, school is out and you’re ready to hang out with your friends until the sun comes up!
However, it is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule. Maintain a regular sleep schedule can help with stress levels which in turn can help eliminate some of the stress which can cause breakouts. Check out these steps to help improve your sleep!
Even on weekends, try to maintain the same sleep schedule. This means going to bed at the same time Monday-Sunday, and waking at the same time.
Help prevent restlessness by turning off your tv and putting phone, tablets and laptops away at least an hour before bed. The blue light in these pieces of technology stimulate the brain and can keep you awake.
Read a book! Not only is reading books fun and tactile, it’s an easy way to unwind after the day.
Stress
Sometimes acne and breakouts can be caused by stress! Stress is something that happens in our lives and is sometimes avoidable. Learning how to manage that stress can help us move on from it sooner or find a solution for it.
Sleep! Use the tips above to ensure you’re getting enough sleep and staying well rested.
Put away the energy drinks. Excess caffeine can sometimes cause anxiety in not only teens, but adults too! Moderation is key.
Identify what is stressing you out! Is it homework, a friend, or an upcoming event? Knowing what is stressing you out, can help you address the problem more easily and figure out how to manage it best.
Know when to let things go. There are so many things in life that can drag us down or stress us out. Some of these things don’t deserve our headspace or emotions.
BREATHE! Never be afraid to take a moment to yourself, shut off your mind and just take a deep breath.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
Cleanser
This facial cleanser is appropriate for all skin types and removes environmental pollutants, excess oil and makeup while hydrating and refreshing the skin.
This cleanser gently cleanses and removes environmental pollutants while providing hydration for sensitive or post-procedure skin.
TONER
Exfoliator
Improves the appearance of skin tone and texture while revealing brighter skin.
Two steps in one! This facial cleanser/toner helps remove makeup, and impurities leaving the skin toned, soft, supple and refreshed.
MOISTURIZER
SERUM
This serum is packed with Vitamin C, Collagen Amino acids and Dr.Dennis Gross’ proprietary energy complex. This serum works to help improve the appearance of dark spots, rough texture and expression lines.
This oil-free moisturizer utilizes hyaluronic acid chronospheres and japanese marine algae to help lock in moisture and keep looking dewy throughout the day.