For teens, looking for the right skincare product suitable for their skin might be tough. Going through puberty has a profound effect on the skin. Because of surging hormones, oil glands start to expand, leading to oily skin and blackheads. With a large number of skincare products available, choosing one can be puzzling.
Other than cleansers or toners, consider moisturizing and preventative treatments that tackle breakouts and oiliness. For more information, we included some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz. Also, read on as we have compiled a guide and a list of our top 10 picks.
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Experts featured in this article only reviewed the content of our buying guide. They had no part in the selection or ranking of products or services listed.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Your skincare regimen’s primary goal should be balancing skin oil production. A teenager's skincare morning routine typically includes a cleanser, moisturizer with SPF or sunscreen, and treatment.
When it comes to a multipurpose skincare product, nothing beats micellar water. This is made with tiny particles known as micelles, which are best in removing dirt, oil, and make-up while clearing the pores and toning the skin. It's even lightweight and easy to apply, making your skin smooth and nourished.
Gentle cleansers are the top-recommended product for everyday use. The two types of cleanser pH levels are alkaline and low pH cleansers. Using alkaline cleansers or facial soaps leaves your skin extra clean. But, this absorbs skin natural moisture, resulting in dehydrated skin and weakening of the skin barrier.
So, consider using a low pH cleanser instead. This is likely to have the same pH level as our skin and balances skin moisture, leaving a hydrated finish upon washing your face. Skincare products with a low pH also aid in cell turnover.
Toners are not a must, but they can help you target specific concerns if you add them to your skincare kit. To prevent skin irritation, put in mind to inspect the ingredients, and conduct a patch test first before using a product. In this way, you will be able to find the perfect product to step up your skincare routine without worrying about skin irritation.
A good moisturizer seals in moisture to the skin without leaving a sticky feeling. Luckily, a wide array of moisturizers today feature an advanced formula made with an equal amount of oil and water easily absorbed by the skin. Dermatologists suggest that a light moisturizer is great during the day and a heavier moisturizer for nighttime.
To protect your skin from the harmful effects of sunlight, use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher. This filters out about 97% of UVB rays and saves your skin from the darkening of pimple marks as well as sunburns.
Common teenage skin concerns are acne, blackheads, and oiliness. You might want to use a mask or spot treatment occasionally for those with acne-prone skin. Products with salicylic acid or natural antibacterial properties like tea tree oil and witch hazel help combat acne.
Whether dry, normal, combination, or acne-prone skin, there is a specific ingredient that will address your skin concerns. It's better to know the active ingredient suitable for your skin type so it can effectively combat your skin woes.
Gentle products made with glycerin or hyaluronic acid are suitable for most skin types, even for sensitive skin. These ingredients hydrate the skin and keep it plump. Some products also include niacinamide as one of the key ingredients. This ingredient soothes redness from acne and minimizes the appearance of pores.
Combination type is when the skin is oily in some areas such as the T-zone and drier on some spots. Because of this, the nose pores appear larger than pores on the cheeks and jawline. A product possessing both soothing and hydrating properties nourishes the skin and reduces oil at once. For soothing ingredients, look for Centella Asiatica or aloe vera.
The best ingredients for oily skin are alpha-hydroxy acids or AHAs like glycolic acid. For more gentle options, choose natural ingredients like tea tree oil and witch hazel. These minimize pores and effectively remove excess oil and dirt.
Teens commonly experience acne breakouts because of hormonal changes during adolescence. Fortunately, Benzoyl peroxide products are accessible in any drugstore, and there are lots of products that are formulated with salicylic acid.
Products with benzoyl peroxide are available in gel or facial wash forms in 5% concentrations. This ingredient is best for removing bacteria on your skin and reducing the appearance of acne scarring. However, this may cause irritation to sensitive skin.
On the other hand, salicylic acid performs better in treating non-inflammatory acne, commonly known as whiteheads and blackheads. This works by deeply soaking in the skin and eliminating dead skin cells clogged in the pores.
Remember, benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are powerful ingredients made to target acne breakouts but using this irresponsibly can irritate your skin. The usage of this product corresponds to the skin type. More preferably, consult your dermatologist first before buying these drugstore skincare items.
Skincare products designated for teens have ingredients that tackle acne breakouts. These contain active ingredients that heal inflammatory acne and blackheads. Take note that teen skin tends to be more sensitive than adults.
Be aware of ingredients like phthalates, parabens, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and triclosan. These chemicals can cause skin redness and irritation.
This crowd favorite from Cetaphil is best known for its ability to hydrate skin while gently cleansing it. This is made specifically for sensitive skin and has a similar texture as lotion, leaving a soft and smooth finish without the stripping feeling. This cleanser can also be used for washing your hands and body.
Apart from its mild formula, Cetaphil is also non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and contains a balanced pH level. With propylene glycol as its key ingredient, this creates a protective film in the skin to avoid moisture loss and aids in soothing skin. This cleanser is gentler than water, so rinsing is not necessary when using this.
The best time to start using sunscreen? As early as possible! This sunscreen from Biore does not only protects your skin from sunlight, but it leaves a cooling and refreshing feeling as well. This highlights Aqua Micro Capsules combined with UV block ingredients that completely protect your skin from the harsh effects of sunlight.
Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence is water-based, so it can be easily absorbed by the skin and works as a make-up base. Formulated with Hyaluronic acid, this keeps your skin moisturized without the sticky texture. This has an SPF50+, which provides a high level of sun protection.
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A moisturizer is one of the must-haves in any skincare routine. And for those looking to add minimal products only, you will definitely appreciate Cerave's Daily Moisturizing Lotion, as it can be used for both the face and the body! This also means that it's a gentle product, but it packs a punch on the benefits it brings to your skin. It's even recognized by the National Eczema Association!
This lightweight moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides that work hand in hand to not only keep your skin hydrated but also protect and strengthen your skin's natural barrier. Many users appreciate that it doesn't contain sulfates and fragrances, so it can be used by people who have extra sensitive skin. It can also be used by all ages!
With salicylic acid as its active ingredient, pimples are no match with this acne-fighting cleanser. This daily cleanser from Cosrx does the trick in eliminating impurities, thanks to its creamy texture. This also highlights its BHA component, removing oil from clogged pores, giving your skin a fresh feeling.
This takes pride in its soothing and clearing properties, which prevents the occurrence of blackheads and whiteheads. Since teens are prone to oiliness, this product reduces skin sebum, at the same time, cleansing the pores from within.
Some toners strip the natural oils in the skin due to its alcohol content. Luckily, you can now say goodbye to dry skin with this alcohol-free toner from Klairs. This is a moisturizing toner that neutralizes the skin's pH levels, consisting of beneficial ingredients that ease skin irritation and prevent skin from drying.
The combination of Phyto-Oligo and Hyaluronic Acid provides moisture to your skin while soothing it. Another nourishing ingredient is the Centella Asiatica extract, which is rich in amino acids. It is an ingredient popular for healing inflammation and building collagen, keeping your skin look bright and youthful.
With its low pH formula and active ingredients, COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser totally deserves to be in your skincare kit. This is suitable for all skin types but works best on oily and acne-prone skin. This is an excellent cleanser for everyday use as it thoroughly cleanses your face and calms skin irritation.
Plus, this is loaded with tea tree leaf oil and salicylic acid, known for fighting acne, controlling oil, and eliminating impurities. Who says acne-fighting cleansers are strong on the skin? This mild cleanser also addresses some teenager's skin concerns like whiteheads and blackheads.
Too lazy to wash make-up before going to bed? While it is not the ideal way of cleansing, it is better than none at all. Garnier micellar cleansing water makes the removal of make-up hassle-free! It is composed of glycerin and mild surfactants, best for absorbing dirt, grime, oil, and make-up from the skin.
Plus, it’s suitable for all skin types as this is particularly effective in clearing out pores while leaving the skin supple and smooth. Best of all? This is easy to use, so it’s a better option for quick clean-up whenever you want to get rid of that oily feeling. If you’re on the lookout for a multitasking beauty find, this is your ultimate choice.
If you're looking for a solution for clogged pores, check out this toner from Céleteque! It is formulated with aloe vera and chamomile extract that helps remove oil and dirt, preventing the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.
Additionally, aloe vera and chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties. These can help treat acne as well as prevent the appearance of blemishes. While this product is fragrance-free, it contains ethyl alcohol, so you may want to conduct a patch test first before using it if you have sensitive skin.
Made with 92% aloe vera leaf extracts, Nature Republic soothing gel is a versatile product that you can use in different skin woes like healing sunburns, hydrating dry skin, or a gentle moisturizer for smooth skin every day.
Taking pride in its aloe vera from certified organic farmers in California, this is great to use even on the most sensitive skin. This is a fast-absorbing gel that deeply moisturizes the skin as well as keeping it healthy. This can also be used for cooling eyes and treating split-ends. Indeed, this aloe vera is worth trying out.
The newest game-changer in the skincare scene is this acne clear potion from Oxecure. This is infused with salicylic acid and niacinamide, which helps you in battling acne, fading dark spots, and exfoliating dead skin cells.
Highlighting its Multi-Acne Care Technology, the said active ingredients slowly penetrate the skin, providing longer-lasting benefits. You will notice instant results in just a span of six hours. Now that we have to wear a face mask most of the time, and teen skin is especially prone to breakouts, this will truly be a lifesaver.
This also provides other beneficial nutrients to the skin because of its natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and shea butter. To use this, soak the cotton bud into the pink powder layer and apply it to affected areas.
Aside from carefully choosing the suitable product for your skin type, there are also other factors to take special note of. Here are some helpful tips that can prevent future breakouts.
When an individual doesn't get good sleep, this leads to the release of the stress hormone cortisol and can trigger skin conditions like acne or psoriasis. As per the National Sleep Foundation, eight to ten hours of sleep is recommended for most teens. Also, for girls, don't forget to remove your make-up before going to bed!
Watching videos or playing games on the phone is probably one of the best ways to entertain yourself. But, did you know that your phone may be sheltered with bacteria and oil? Make it a habit to clean your phone daily. In that way, you will be able to get rid of bacteria that can lead to skin breakout.
When you sleep, dirt and oil from your hair may be trapped in your pillowcases. Especially for side-sleepers, the pillowcase touches your skin, so the dirt and oil will be transferred to your face. Changing your pillowcases more often is a wise move to prevent acne caused by oil and specks of dirt.
Also, choose pillowcases made with cotton to avoid the appearance of acne. For sensitive skin, opt to use a fragrance-free detergent when washing your pillowcases.
Some ingredients from your haircare product might contain ingredients that can trigger skin irritation or acne. This includes Isopropyl myristate, oils, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium Laureth sulfate, and sodium chloride.
Oils from shampoos and other styling products can cause whiteheads on the forehead. Much better to rinse your shampoo and conditioner thoroughly to avoid residue on the skin.
Make smarter choices with more information. Here are some of Dr. Katrina's answers to some of the most asked questions on the internet. Keep on reading to learn more!
Acne is extremely common in teens and can definitely affect their overall self-image and self-esteem. The best thing is to consult a board-certified dermatologist early on so that they can address the issue and nip it in the bud. Your dermatologist will help you get rid of acne by treating the underlying cause. This will also enable you to reduce the chances of developing acne scars in the future!
The best time to start using skincare products depends on what product that is! Sunscreen - as early as 6 months old, especially if exposed to the sun regularly. Moisturizer - as early as it is needed.
There is no best age to start - as skincare is so personal. It would depend on your individual skin needs.
For anti-aging, perhaps the teenage years may be a little bit too early, especially since, as teens, their skin is still in a phase of transition. However, once you hit your twenties, then it would be a good idea to start!
Planning to revamp your usual skincare regimen? Here are links to the best skincare tools online, which can help your skin look brighter than before.
Author: Bettina Tan
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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