Buzzapp Master 
The era of slime and L.O.L. Dolls is over; now, Gen Alpha kids are browsing the Sephora website, obsessively watching GRWM (Get Ready With Me) videos on YouTube, and treating a trip to Boots like a day out. But what’s behind this sudden skincare obsession among teens and tweens? And should they really be using all these products?
Experts concur that the surge in skincare interest and purchases is largely fuelled by the influence of social media. As a beauty editor who loves skincare – and a mum of a tween myself – I find myself torn between fully supporting this trend and resisting it, reports the Mirror. However, I do believe in equipping teens with knowledge, and – provided the ingredients are suitable and safe – fostering good skincare habits should be encouraged.
To help navigate this trend, I sought advice from skincare experts on the best products and ingredients for this age group…
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We ask the experts what teens should – and shouldn’t – be using using on their skin
(Image: Getty Images)
Which skincare ingredients are suitable for teen and tween skin? Dr Amina Albeyatti, a GP who recently launched Troikin, a skincare line aimed at youngsters aged 5-16, advises, “Young, developing skin only needs protection. During the day, SPF, vitamin C and vitamin E protect against UV damage and free radicals from pollution.
“Another key factor is hydration, which maintains a robust skin barrier to regulate temperature and defend against bacteria, fungus and allergens.”
“Keep it simple,” says Reena Hammer, co-founder of Indu, a skincare line designed for teens. “Look for glycerin and squalane in moisturisers, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and salicylic acid and zinc for blemish-prone skin,” she adds.
Indu is a skincare brand specifically designed for teen skin
(Image: Indu)
Which skincare products should I let my teen and tween use? If their skin is relatively trouble-free, stick to the basics: cleanse, moisturise and SPF. This trio forms the foundation of solid skincare practices from a young age.
Bubble knows its youthful audience well, offering clear age recommendations on its website. Bubble Fresh Start Cleansing Gel, currently £12.80 (usual price £16), is a hit with the social media crowd. For an economical high-street buy, Boots Aqua Hydrating Cleanser, £6, won’t disappoint.
Bubble is a popular skincare brand with this age group
(Image: Bubble)
For moisturiser, Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Moisturiser, currently £12.38 (usual price £16.50) is a universal fit for all skin types and ages, while Superdrug’s Vitamin E Moisturiser is a steal at just £2, and delivers excellent results. For tweens needing extra care for dry or sensitive skin, Troikin Nightology, £34, is a dreamy nighttime treat.
For sun protection, try Indu Everyday Hero SPF 50+, £25, which offers high-level protection.
A great basic moisturiser
(Image: Cetaphil)
Which skincare products should my teenager use for blemishes? Dr Derrick Phillips, a consultant dermatologist, explains the root of the problem: “Acne can occur due to hormonal changes during puberty, which lead to increased sebum production, causing whiteheads, blackheads and pimples.”
To combat these pesky skin issues, incorporating active ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and niacinamide into your skincare routine can work wonders in unclogging pores and soothing inflammation. For a deep cleanse, check out CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser, currently £10.87 (usual price £14.50). For those with oily complexions, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Face and Body Cleansing Gel, £17.50, is a great option.
This CeraVe cleanser will help to gently unblock pores
(Image: CeraVe)
For a gentle solution, hydrocolloid spot patches are a go-to, protecting spots from the temptation to pick and promoting healing. Starface, currently £8.99 (usual price £11.99) offers quirky, eye-catching patches, while Hero Mighty Pimple Patches, currently £6.39n(usual price £7.99) are an understated solution at only £6.39 (down from £7.99).
If they’re battling stubborn blemishes, 47 Skin Serum, £29, might be a good option, boasting silver chitoderm and 15% azelaic acid to keep breakouts at bay, reduce redness and fade acne scars.
Pimple patches are a popular way to protect and heal blemishes
(Image: Hero)
Which skincare ingredients should teens and tweens avoid? Dr Sonia Khorana, GP and skincare expert for Hero Cosmetics, says: “I strongly advise against teens using retinol or exfoliating acids unless prescribed by a doctor,” warning that these could cause irritation.
Dr Emma Cunningham, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics, also advises steering clear of alcohol-based products. She cautions, “These can strip too much moisture from the skin, leading to dryness and triggering excess oil production, which could worsen breakouts.”
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