Puberty can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, filled with growth spurts, mood swings, and sudden changes in your voice (and those around you). On top of all that, your skin might start acting unpredictably with breakouts and dry spots popping up when you least expect them. These changes are all part of your body’s hormonal evolution. While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, the good news is that there are some things you can control—like developing a simple, nurturing skincare routine.
What happens to your skin during puberty?
Let’s start with a quick biology lesson: during puberty, your body goes through significant hormonal shifts that can have a big impact on your skin. These changes often begin around the ages of 10–12, making your skin more sensitive to impurities. One of the most common skin issues during this time is acne, caused by an increase in sebum (oil) production. Excess sebum can clog pores, leading to blackheads, breakouts, and other blemishes.
The impact of social media
Having a skincare routine has really become a trend in recent years, partly due to social media. In today's world, teenagers spend most of the time scrolling through social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. These platforms not just entertain, they also educate, where influencers often promote the latest (skincare) products.
From cleansers to serums and moisturizers, teenagers today have a whole routine. But young children are better off without some of these products. Certain products for adults are simply not (yet) suitable for younger skin. As parent, it's important to know what a teenagers skin does or does not need instead of just them following a trend. Because using too much or aggressive skincare can damage the skin barrier.
Keeping it simple
The golden rule for teen skincare? Less is more. Young skin doesn’t need a 7-step routine filled with serums and strong acids. Fruit acids, like glycolic acid, retinol and other strong vitamins are ingredients a young skin doesn't need. Instead, focus on a gentle, natural, and effective simple 3-step skincare routine:
1. Cleanse
Your skin encounters dirt, sweat, makeup, and pollution daily. To keep it clean and prevent clogged pores, a nightly cleanse is essential. In the morning, a splash of water is often enough to refresh your skin.
Cleansers for oily or acne-prone skin:
+ Acne Skin Solid Cleanser Bar - Nourished Daily
+ Gentle Gel Cleanser - Frank!y
+ Refreshing Cleansing Gel - Weleda
Cleansers for dry skin:
+ Dry Skin Solid Cleanser Bar - Nourished Daily
+ Super Hydrate-Me Creamy Cleanser - Raww
Cleansers for sensitive skin:
+ Sensitive Skin Solid Cleanser Bar - Nourished Daily
+ Fig All-Beauty Jelly - Ere Perez
2. Moisturize
Hydrating your skin is crucial, even for oily or acne-prone skin. The right moisturizer will balance your skin without clogging the pores.
Moisturizers for oily or acne-prone skin:
+ Mattifying Moisturizing Cream - Frank!y
+ Non-Oily Moisturizing Balm - Frank!y
Moisturizers for dry skin:
+ Skin Food - Weleda
+ Super Hydrate-ME Day Cream - Raww
Moisturizers for sensitive skin:
+ Daily Moisturizer - Nourished Daily
+ Activate-Me Face Moisturizer - Raww
3. Protect with SPF
It doesn't matter how old you are, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is non-negotiable. Sunscreen helps prevent long-term damage and keeps your skin healthy.
+ Daily Face + Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF50 - Nourished Daily
+ Natural Sunscreen SPF30 Eucalyptus - Lekker
+ Natural Face Sunscreen Clear Zinc SPF50 - Little Urchin (not recommended for oily skin)
Explore more teen-friendly skincare
This simple three-step routine lays the foundation for healthy, glowing skin during puberty. At Nourished, we offer a wide range of natural skincare and makeup products designed specifically for teenagers. Explore our full collection here.
By embracing a gentle and mindful skincare approach, you can take charge of your skin’s health and feel confident as you go through this transformative phase of life.
