š 8 Summer Skincare Tips for Teens & Kids: Healthy Habits Over Hype
When it comes to summer skincare for kids and teens, less is more. Thereās a lot of noise out thereāviral products, flashy packaging, and trends that promise instant resultsābut developing healthy skin habits early on doesnāt need to be complicated.
Below are expert-backed, age-appropriate skincare tips that keep young skin happy, healthy, and glowingāall summer long.
1. ⨠Keep It Simple
Kids and teens do not need retinols, peptides, niacinamide serums, or other actives. These ingredients are designed for mature skin and can damage the natural skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and even more breakouts.
Stick to the basics: gentle cleansing, light moisturizing, and consistent SPF. Thatās it!
2. š§¼ Wash Your Hands Before You Wash Your Face
It might sound obvious, but clean hands matter. Before you touch your face or apply any skincare, wash your hands with soap and water. This helps prevent spreading bacteria that can lead to breakouts or infections.
3. š¦ Cleanse Twice a Day ā But Wipes Donāt Count
While micellar water and cleansing wipes are great for quick fixes (like after PE or outdoor activities), they donāt replace a proper face wash.
Teens should cleanse with a gentle gel-based cleanser morning and night to remove sweat, sunscreen, oil, and dirt. If wearing makeup, remove it first, then cleanse.
4. āļø SPF Is Non-Negotiable
Sunscreen is your skinās best friendāespecially in summer. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. If youāre swimming, sweating, or just out in the sun a lot, reapply every 2 hours.
Bonus tip: For teens wearing makeup, apply SPF with a sponge or try a sunscreen mist to avoid smudging.
5. š§“ Donāt Be Fooled by Fancy Packaging or Buzzwords
Just because itās trending on TikTok doesnāt mean itās good for your skin. Many skincare products are full of harsh fragrances, essential oils, or active ingredients that arenāt teen-safe. Always check the labelāand when in doubt, keep it simple.
6. š Use Pimple Patches the Right Way
Pimple patches can be great, but only for spot treatment. Donāt wear them all over your face or sleep in them every night. Overuse can dry out or irritate the skināespecially during hot weather when skin is already more sensitive.
7. š§ Facial Oils? Only If Youāre Smart About It
If youāre adding facial oils or glow drops for that dewy summer skin, keep them lightweight and gel-based, and never skip SPF afterward. Oils can make skin more vulnerable to sun damage, so always layer with sunscreen.
8. Less Is More
Overdoing your routine can backfire. Teen and kid skin is already in great shapeāso donāt overload it. Choose gentle, hydrating, non-comedogenic products, and avoid layering more than two or three products at once.
šæ Final Thoughts: Build Habits, Not Hype
Summer skincare for kids and teens should be easy, effective, and protective. Start with a strong foundation of cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection, and skip the trends that promise quick fixes. Your skin will thank youāthis summer and beyond.
Want help building a routine for your child or teen? Reach out for product suggestions tailored to young skin!