What skincare products should a teenager use?

Many online influencers often spotlight products designed for adults, but it’s important to recognise that tweens have different skincare needs. While adults might be trying to banish wrinkles, teens are going through a transformation where hormonal changes can cause breakouts, clogged pores and oiliness.

Although these products may seem appealing, it’s best for teens to steer clear from anti-ageing formulas, acids and retinols, which are typically aimed at addressing fine lines and wrinkles. These ingredients aren’t just unnecessary for younger skin, they can also cause irritation, inflammation and breakouts. In some cases, they could even damage the delicate skin barrier. Many dermatologists advise against using retinol before the age of twenty-five, as younger skin still produces a high level of collagen.

Rather than letting your tween pick products based on social media trends, encourage them to embrace their natural beauty and develop confidence in their own skin. If they are interested in skincare, guide them towards a ‘less is more’ approach with a simple, age-appropriate routine. When they’re over twelve, you can help them understand their skin type then slowly introduce cleanser, toner and moisturiser, alongside regular SPF use.

Start their morning and evening routine with Liz Earle’s Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser to cleanse the skin before using Instant Boost™ Skin Tonic Toner to replenish it. Finally, opt for a light layer of Skin Repair™ Gel Cream; as one of our best formulations for oily skin, this light, gentle, non-greasy lotion will absorb easily to lock in moisture and keep skin in great condition.

To protect them from the sun, get your teen to add Environmental Defence Cream Mineral SPF 25 at the end of their morning routine. Leave the moisturiser for a few moments to absorb into the upper levels of the skin, then apply a good layer of this SPF. Just make sure they reapply it every couple of hours to maintain protection throughout the day.

To create a safe teen or tween skincare routine, it’s important that they carry out a patch test when using a new product for the first time, especially since their skin is younger and more sensitive. And make sure that they follow the directions on the packet.

Why is Cleanse & Polish best for teen & tween skincare?

Liz Earle’s Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser is an award-winning cleanser that leaves skin smooth and radiant by instantly boosting hydration and removing impurities like pollutants and make up . Since it’s a cream-based cleanser, it’s great for teens, because using too many soapy, foamy products can dry out the skin.

But that’s not all. Formulated with eucalyptus and rosemary, it purifies and soothes, eliminating excess oil without stripping the skin – ideal for anyone who experiences acne or oiliness.

Once you’ve massaged the cleanser into your skin, simply wipe it off with our pure cotton cloth to gently exfoliate during your deep cleanse; this will lift away any dead skin without causing irritation. Not only will it help to banish blackheads and blemishes, but it clears pores too, for a brighter complexion that leaves skin glowing.

Ideal for anyone over the age of twelve, Liz Earle’s Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser is kind to even the most sensitive skin. Certified under the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny Program, Liz Earle products are effective and ethical, and this cleanser is sustainable too – it’s now available in a recyclable tube made from 55% recycled materials.