Tween skincare has become a significant trend, with young individuals increasingly interested in maintaining healthy and flawless skin. Social media influence, peer pressure, and increased access to skincare education and products are driving this trend. This blog explores the reasons behind the popularity of tween skincare, the potential risks, and provides recommendations for safe and effective skincare routines for tweens.
Why is Tween Skincare So Popular?
Selfies, Social Media, and Screens
- Selfies and Social Media: Tweens are motivated to achieve healthy, flawless skin for the selfies they share on social media platforms.
- Peer Pressure: Exposure to social media influencers prompts tweens to become interested in and use skincare products at an earlier age.
- Access and Purchase Power: Smartphones, computers, and tablets provide tweens with access to skincare education and purchasing options, making them a targeted demographic for skincare companies.
Should Families Support Tween Skincare?
Families should ensure that skincare products fit within their budget and are used as a fun activity rather than an obsession.
Risks of Using Skincare Products Too Young
- Skin Irritation: Strong active ingredients can cause redness, sensitivity, and irritation.
- Allergic Reactions: Natural products or those with fragrances can cause allergies, leading to redness and irritation.
- Chemical Exposure: Excessive use of products can lead to unknown long-term consequences due to chemical exposure. It is recommended to use fragrance-free and paraben-free products.
Recommendations for Tweens
The tween years are an ideal time to establish healthy skincare habits. The following guidelines apply to tweens without dermatologic diagnoses. For those with specific skin conditions like acne, eczema, or allergies, a customized program can be curated by our dermatologists at Clear Dermatology.
- Face Washing: Washing the face twice daily helps prevent acne as tweens approach puberty.
- Moisturizing: Regular application of moisturizer is beneficial for future anti-aging regimens and keeps the skin hydrated.
- Sunscreen: Applying sunscreen in the morning prevents skin cancer and slows the aging process. Tinted sunscreens can provide a makeup-like effect and cover up redness from blemishes.
OTC Product Recommendations for Tweens with Normal Skin
Cleansers (Paraben and Fragrance-Free):
- Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
- Cerave Foaming Facial Cleanser
- Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
Moisturizers:
- Cerave PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
- Burt’s Bees Sensitive Daily Moisturizing Cream
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Sunscreens:
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF 30 Gentle Lotion
- CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint
- Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30/50
Masks:
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating 100% Hydrogel Mask
- Simple Kind to Skin De-Stress Sheet Mask
Conclusion
Tween skincare is a growing trend driven by social media and increased access to skincare products. While it is important to support healthy skincare habits, families should be cautious about the products used to avoid irritation and long-term chemical exposure. By following the recommended guidelines and using appropriate products, tweens can develop a healthy skincare routine that benefits them now and in the future.
