Teenagers are increasingly adopting complex skincare routines influenced by social media, often prioritising advice from influencers over professionals. However, consultant dermatologists Dr Jonathan Kentley and Dr Zainab Laftah advocate for a simple, three-step approach.
Dr Kentley notes a concerning rise in unrealistic beauty standards promoted online, stating he has never seen anyone with "glass skin" and believes such images are over-filtered. He adds that visible pores, blackheads, blemishes, pigmentation, redness, and scarring are normal for teenage skin.
More than 80% of 13- to 18-year-olds experience acne, which Dr Laftah explains is often linked to testosterone driving increased oil production. Both experts recommend a basic routine consisting of a gentle cleanser, a fragrance-free moisturiser, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. They warn that complicated routines with frequent exfoliations or strong acids can irritate young skin and potentially cause damage, with Dr Kentley observing an exponential rise in perioral dermatitis in teens due to overuse of certain ingredients.
Additional advice includes getting enough sleep and maintaining a balanced diet, as raised cortisol from diets high in white carbohydrates and sugar, along with lack of sleep, have been linked to breakouts. Experts also advise against picking or popping spots to prevent increased inflammation, scarring, and discolouration. For persistent painful cystic or scarring acne, seeking medical advice from a GP or dermatologist is recommended.