Best skincare for tweens & teens
As tweens and teens grow, their skin starts to change. Some might notice their skin becoming oilier, while others may find it feeling drier or more sensitive. Finding the right skincare products can help to keep the skin feeling comfortable and looking healthy without needing a complicated routine.
E45 has been trusted for generations to care for dry and sensitive skin. In this guide, we’ll share simple product recommendations and easy-to-follow skincare tips for tweens and teens.
Best skincare products for tweens & teens
Skincare at this stage is all about balance. Harsh treatments can strip the skin and make things worse, while overly rich products might clog pores. Here are some gentle, effective products that can help.
1. Best cleanser for tweens & teens
Washing your face in the morning and evening can help remove excess oil, sweat and dirt. A gentle, soap-free cleanser is a good option as it cleans without drying the skin.
Look for: A mild cleanser that’s fragrance-free and dermatologically tested.
2. Best skincare for sensitive or dry-prone skin
Some tweens and teens experience dry patches, redness or irritation. Using a soothing, hydrating cream can help protect the skin barrier and prevent further dryness. For even more hydration, a fragrance-free hydrating serum can help to boost skin prone to dryness.
Look for: A rich but non-heavy emollient that helps lock in moisture.
3. Best skincare for spot-prone or oily skin
Skin that feels greasy or gets the occasional spot may need a light, non-comedogenic moisturiser. This means it won’t block pores while still keeping the skin hydrated.
Look for: A simple, fragrance-free option that supports the skin without irritation.
4. Best skincare for extra hydration & protection on the body
If the skin feels dry due to weather changes, heating or long showers, a hydrating lotion or cream can help to lock the moisture in.
Look for: A dermatologically tested emollient that helps soothe and protect.
A simple skincare routine for tweens & teens
Having a simple routine can help keep skin comfortable and balanced. There’s no need for lots of different products – just a few key steps each day can make a difference.
Morning routine
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove oil and sweat from the night.
- Apply a lightweight moisturiser to keep skin hydrated throughout the day.
- Use sunscreen (especially if spending time outdoors) to help protect the skin.
Evening routine
- Cleanse again to remove dirt, sweat and makeup if worn.
- Apply a moisturiser suited to your skin type.
Some people might want to add an extra step, like a spot treatment or exfoliation, but it’s best to keep things simple to avoid irritating the skin.
Common skincare mistakes to avoid
Here are a few things that can cause irritation or discomfort:
- Over-cleansing – Washing too often or using harsh cleansers can strip the skin.
- Skipping moisturiser – Even oily skin needs hydration to stay balanced.
- Using strong treatments too soon – Some products can be drying and make skin feel uncomfortable.
- Picking at spots – This can lead to scarring or redness that takes longer to fade.
If breakouts or irritation become a concern, a healthcare professional can give advice on the best approach.
Final thoughts: Keep skincare simple & gentle
The best skincare routine is one that’s easy to stick to. Using gentle, hydrating products can help to keep the skin feeling comfortable without overcomplicating things. Whether skin is oily, dry or somewhere in between, E45 has options to help keep it balanced.
Looking after your skin shouldn’t feel like a chore – it’s about finding what works and keeping things simple.
FAQ: Tween & teen skincare
What skincare should a tween use?
A tween (typically aged 9-12) should use gentle, fragrance-free skincare that keeps their skin clean and hydrated. A simple routine with a mild soap-free cleanser, a lightweight moisturiser and sunscreen is a great start. Avoid strong acne treatments or harsh scrubs, as their skin is still delicate.
What skincare should a teenager use?
Teenagers (13+) may start experiencing more oiliness, breakouts or dryness. A gentle cleanser, moisturiser suited to their skin type and daily SPF can help to keep the skin balanced. If needed, they can add a hydrating serum for dry areas or a light, non-comedogenic moisturiser for oily skin. Harsh treatments should only be used with professional advice.
What skincare should my 12-year-old use?
At 12, skincare should still be simple and gentle. A mild cleanser to remove dirt and sweat, a moisturiser to keep skin hydrated and SPF for sun protection are all they need. If they have sensitive skin, choosing dermatologically tested, fragrance-free products can help prevent irritation.
What is the best skincare for a 14-year-old girl?
- At 14, skin changes due to puberty can lead to oiliness, dryness or occasional spots. The best routine includes:
- A gentle cleanser to remove excess oil without stripping the skin.
- A light, non-greasy moisturiser to keep skin hydrated.
- SPF to protect from sun damage.
- If needed, a hydrating serum for dry skin or a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser for spot-prone areas.
Is it okay for a 13-year-old to use skincare?
Yes! A 13-year-old can start a basic skincare routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and SPF. It’s best to avoid strong treatments or active ingredients like retinol without professional advice. Keeping skincare simple and consistent is key.
What is the best tween cleanser?
The best cleanser for tweens is gentle, soap-free and fragrance-free. Look for one that cleans without drying out the skin or causing irritation. A dermatologically tested cleanser that removes sweat, dirt and excess oil while maintaining hydration is a good choice.
