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Healthy skin boosts self-esteem.

It’s never too early for teenagers to learn about healthy skin care practices.

As adults, we tend to recognize and understand the importance of cleansing, moisturizing, treating and protecting our skin. However, healthy skin care practices are important for teenagers as well. Many teens struggle with skin conditions that are influenced by their hormones. They tend to have oily skin and experience blemishes and breakouts. Educating teens on the basics of skin care can have lifelong effects. Here are some tips to help them get started:

Use a Facial Cleanser, Not Ordinary Bar Soap

Teens must understand the importance of washing their face every morning and every evening before bedtime. Cleansing helps remove excess oils from the surface, along with dirt, makeup and other pore-clogging debris. Cleansing the skin is non-negotiable. So, make sure you’re providing them with the necessary tools.

Get them started on a healthy cleansing routine, using a facial cleanser specifically formulated to target oily skin. Choose a sulfate-free cleanser for a gentler approach and remind them to cleanse twice a day. Clean skin can help put your teen on the path to clear skin quickly. Make sure they pat their skin dry and never rub post-cleansing. Remind them to use a clean towel to dry. Any towel that isn’t clean is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Use Sunscreen

Teenagers spend a lot of time outdoors. Between hanging out with friends, sports programs or simply walking to school and back, they are exposed to the damaging UVA/UVB rays of the sun. All teens need to realize that even minimal exposure to the sun can cause long-term damage, including burning, aging and skin cancer. Teens need to understand that they should always apply sunscreen, or a moisturizer with sunscreen, before heading to school in the morning. A product with a minimum of SPF 30, that’s both water and sweat resistant, is ideal. Inform them that even on a cloudy day in the dead of winter, the sun’s rays can still cause damage to the skin.

Hands Off the Pimples

Picking at a blemish is a major no-no for everyone, not just teens. If you pop a pimple, it can aggravate the condition even further and lead to permanent scarring. Explain why in general it’s important to resist the urge to touch their face. Our hands can be riddled with germs and bacteria, and the last place we want these germs to end up is on our face.

Moisturize

Moisturizer keeps skin hydrated, helps maintain elasticity and should be applied every day. Choose a product containing UVA/UVB SPF 30 protection. Look for products with no added parabens and that are dermatologist tested.

Find the Right Makeup

Explain the importance of making the best product choices in the name of healthy-looking skin. Look for oil-free cosmetics so they won’t encourage or aggravate any skin conditions. Inform them that while makeup may look nice, too much of it can cause breakouts and result in skin imperfections.

Be sure to reiterate the point that if they wear makeup, washing their face before bed is mandatory. Makeup left on the skin while sleeping is a catalyst for clogged pores and breakouts. Also, remember that teens that have acne should use approved products to treat that condition, in accordance with their labeling, and seek the advice of their doctor for serious conditions.

Use the Right Type of Razor

Most boys start shaving in their teen years. Explain the different types of razors on the market. Electric razors are a great place to start with a newbie, while disposable razors are effective for a closer shave. It’s important to explain the basics of shaving so a teen can learn how to avoid nicking his skin.

If a teen is suffering from blemishes, nicking the skin can be painful and lead to further irritation. So, educating them on how to shave, including choosing the right razor and shaving cream, will be a valuable lesson. In addition to shaving procedure, make sure you educate them on the importance of cleaning their electric shaver and when to use a fresh blade.