Teenagers and Skincare
Should teens be using skincare?
According to my friends, and myself, yes! Many teenage girls in particular are getting more invested in the world of skincare. While this is good for preventing acne and other skin benefits, it also helps the growing mental health crisis of teenagers.
After talking to my friends and looking back at my own experiences, this simple daily practice helps us all. As most teenagers and people in general, we all struggle with our own insecurities. As teenagers, the main one is acne, specifically uncontrollable breakouts. The appearance of acne can easily lower someone's self-esteem. The mental health and confidence of a teenager is very uneasy as it is, acne adds another level. A simple face wash, light moisture, and SPF can make a huge difference for hormonal acne.
As teenagers, we are also beginning to experiment with makeup. Most people would agree that makeup is a great way to up your self-esteem and creatively express yourself. Although there are many benefits, one of the downsides is the effect on your skin. From the stories from my mom, the era of makeup wipes was one to forget. People learning how to properly clean their skin after wearing makeup is a great new influence. The importance of double cleansing your skin has gained more popularity through TikTok.
Of course, there is a healthy length that teens should go to. The popularity of expensive and damaging skincare, using only name brands, should be avoided. No teenage girl needs retinol! A simple routine will do wonders for your skin. Acne is a different story, but light and clean products are what should be marketed to young people. Don’t ruin your skin barrier before you turn 16!
Above all, the habits built using daily skincare are so beneficial for young people. A routine of spending a decent amount of time taking care of yourself, first thing in the morning and the last thing at night, improves your self-esteem and well-being. It shows that you are worthy of time, effort, and wellness by investing in and caring for your skin. This is something that we all, especially self-conscious teenagers, can be reminded of.
1) American Academy of Dermatology Association, "ACNE CAN AFFECT MORE THAN YOUR SKIN," AmericanAcademyofDermatologyAssociation.com, accessed May 16, 2024, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/acne-emotional-effects#:~:text=It%20can%20cause%20teens%20to,embarrassed%2C%20or%20self%2Dconscious.
2) Evereden, "5 Reasons Why Kids Need Their Own Skincare Routine," Evereden.com, https://www.ever-eden.com/blogs/skin-health/5-reasons-why-kids-need-their-own-skincare-routine#:~:text=If%20you%20instill%20good%20skincare,skin%20cancer%20down%20the%20line.
