Skincare Routine for Teenagers: A Simple Guide for Teens and Parents

The teenage years bring many skin changes. Oilier skin, the first breakouts and a sudden interest in skincare videos are all common. The best routine for a teenager is simple, gentle and easy to stick to. Here is a guide for teens, and for parents helping them start.

Why teenage skin changes

During the teenage years, the body goes through many hormonal changes. Many teens notice their skin gets oilier, especially on the forehead, nose and chin, and they start getting pimples and blackheads. This is very common and is a normal part of growing up.

The 3-step routine

1. Cleanse, morning and night

Use a gentle face wash and lukewarm water. Wash for about 30 seconds and pat dry with a clean towel. Washing more than twice a day does not help and can irritate skin.

2. Moisturise

Even oily skin needs a light moisturiser. A gel or oil-free lotion works well.

3. Sunscreen every morning

A habit worth starting young. Choose a light, non-greasy sunscreen and apply it to the face, ears and neck.

Handling breakouts gently

• Do not pick or squeeze pimples. It can make them more inflamed and leave marks that last longer.
• Keep hair off the face and wash hair regularly if it is oily.
• Change pillowcases twice a week.
• Wash your face after sport or sweating.
• Be patient. A new routine needs about four weeks.

What teens can skip

• Long multi-step routines copied from social media.
• Strong anti-aging products, which young skin does not need.
• Harsh scrubs, toothpaste on pimples and lemon juice.
• Trying many new products at once.

Habits that help

• Sleep: teenagers usually need more sleep than adults. Late-night screens make this hard.
• Food: regular meals with fruit, vegetables and protein. Fewer fried snacks and sugary drinks.
• Water: carry a bottle to school or college.
• Movement: sport, dance, cycling or a daily walk.
• Clean phone screen: it touches your face many times a day.

Tips for parents

• Keep the routine short so it is easy to follow every day.
• Buy a gentle cleanser, light moisturiser and sunscreen to start.
• Talk about how common breakouts are, without judgement.
• Watch for signs that acne is affecting confidence or mood.

When to see a dermatologist

See a dermatologist if acne is painful, deep, widespread, leaving marks or scars, or affecting how your teen feels about themselves. Early help can make a real difference.

Quick questions

Can teens use face masks? A gentle clay mask once a week is fine for oily skin. Patch-test first.

Is makeup okay? Light makeup is fine, but always remove it before bed.

A plan built from photos

For older teens and young adults, the Theraglam Glow Scan turns three photos and a short quiz into a personal skincare routine, diet and water plan, exercise plan and a 28-day tracker. For anyone under 18, please complete it with a parent.

Start my Glow Scan: 3 photos, a short quiz, and your personal plan by email within about 2 hours. Rs 599, one time.

Glow Scan and this article give skincare and lifestyle guidance, not medical advice. For a skin or health condition, please see a doctor or dermatologist.