Ask any dermatologist and they’ll tell you that finding the best skincare for teens is no mean feat. We all know that curating an effective skincare regimen is already a nuanced process – regardless of age. However, in mind with the associated hormonal changes, it’s no secret that teenage years can be particularly tricky to navigate.

From sensitised skin, excess oil and sebum production to blemishes, flare-ups, blackheads and cystic acne, there’s quite a few potential teenage skincare concerns that call for a tailored routine that’s supercharged with specific ingredients.

To make things even harder, there’s also an overwhelming (and at times, misleading) amount of skincare-related advice floating across the realms of social media, which only makes it that much more challenging to differentiate it from reliable, expert-approved guidance.

In an effort to help you collate the most effective skincare routine for teens – be it for your daughter/son or a niece/nephew – we’ve put together a deep-dive edit of the best skincare products that come approved by our very own beauty editors and board-certified dermatologists.

For ease, we’ve categorised the below guide into sections that tailor to a specific skin type and have included suggestions for a simple yet quality (!) four-step skincare ritual for your perusal – all coming from coveted skincare brands that have the GLAMOUR seal of approval, ofc.

Skip to shop the best skincare for teens: for all skin types | for acne-prone skin | for oily skin | for sensitive skin | for dry skin.

Skip to FAQs: What age should a teen girl start with her skincare routine? | What are the difference between skincare products for teens and adults? | What skincare should a 12-year-old use? | And what about a 13-year-old? | Should teens be using actives? | What are the best skincare products for teenagers with acne-prone skin? | Our full edit of the best skincare products for teens.


Meet the experts:

  • Dr Sreedhar Krishna: an NHS consultant dermatologist working in South London and the co-founder of SkinDoc, a leading online dermatologist platform. He studied at Oxford University, Cambridge University and Imperial College London and has published research in numerous specialist journals and presents cutting-edge research on an international level.
  • Dr Emma Craythorne: a consultant dermatologist, current president of the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group and founder of Klira, a personalised skin-cream created by dermatologists.
  • Dr Anjali Mahto: a consultant dermatologist and author of The Skincare Bible. She has a diploma in nutritional science and a BSc in Pharmacology.
  • Dr Sawsan Ayed: a dermatologist at Paramount Medical Centre.
  • Dr. Michael Gowen: a board-certified dermatologist and Bubble Skincare‘s dermatology advisor.

How we test skincare for teens:

It’s of upmost importance that you can trust GLAMOUR’s product reviews. So, to curate this guide, we’ve spoken to the experts listed above, attended press days and gathered teenage testers with different skin tones and types to review many of the teenage skincare products we’ve included. We’ve scored products based on efficacy, packaging, texture, value for money, and whether they work on a variety of skin types – and to target the concerns they claim they will. We avoided the ingredients that our experts told us would cause damage, and paid particular attention to products which are formulated for teen skin specifically. Find out more about how we test.

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What age should a teenage girl start with a skincare routine?

Skincare is a lifelong commitment, and as consultant dermatologist and founder of Klira, Dr Emma Craythorne points out, it actually starts before teen-hood. “Skincare should be taught from an early age. It is important that young children understand how to wash their hands and face properly as well as using SPF to protect their skin,” she says. However, this steps up a gear in the teenage years. “It becomes even more important to ensure they are cleansing their face appropriately and moisturising where needed,” Craythorne confirms.

Consultant dermatologist Dr Sreedhar Krishna earmarks twelve as a good ballpark age but reiterates that it comes down to the onset of puberty. “This is when hormonal changes can lead to skin issues like acne, making it crucial to establish good skincare habits early on,” he says. Alongside combatting issues such as acne as a result of hormonal changes, pollution – an increasing issue in city living – is also a reason to start skincare young. “Teenagers’ skin is exposed to various pollutants, making a proper skincare routine crucial to cleanse the skin of dirt and pollutants,” Krishna says.

The benefits of doing so are myriad. “Skincare can act as a confidence booster and reduce stress for teenagers dealing with exam pressure, emotional issues, and other challenges,” he notes. It’s also good to get into the habit young. “Skincare is a lifelong pursuit, and starting early can lead to healthier and more youthful-looking skin in later life,” Krishna confirms. A teen skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated, which we will go into more specifically later.

What are the differences between skincare products for teens and adult women?

Teens have different skin types and concerns in comparison to adult women, so products should be adjusted accordingly. “Skincare routines should be personalised and adapted to address the specific needs of each age group,” Krishna notes.

For teens that are suffering at the hands of puberty-induced oily and acne-prone skin, a very common concern, there are particular products that can be beneficial. “Products that target oiliness and acne, such as oil-free cleansers, spot treatments, and non-comedogenic moisturisers, are beneficial,” Krishna says. “Ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can help treat and prevent acne,” he also adds.

Beyond this, it’s better to stick to a simple routine that includes a cleanser, moisturiser and SPF – and not experiment with active ingredients aimed at older skin. “Teenage girls on the whole need very gentle products with minimal ingredients. They have delicate skin and it should be protected,” Crawthorne recommends. “Older women tend to need to focus on products that will repair long term UV damage such as mottled pigmentations, sun spots, melasma and lack of glow to the skin. These are not things that teenage girls suffer from – their glow is abundant,” Crawthorne says.

Furthermore, popular ingredients seen in adult skincare, like retinol, are a definite no-no on teen skin. “When teenage girls use many of these products they end up causing irritation to the skin barrier that might induce acne and/or a rosacea or so commonly a perioral dermatitis,” Crawthorne adds.

What skincare should a 12-year-old use?

Keeping it simple is the overarching message here – unless there is a medical problem or specific ongoing one, in which case you should seek to visit a dermatologist, no matter your age. Krishna suggests the following routine:

  • Cleanser: Opt for a gentle facial cleanser that is suitable for their age and skin type. Look for products labeled specifically for young skin or sensitive skin. Wash face twice a day, morning and night, using the cleanser. Do not over-cleanse, as this will be more detrimental than anything.
  • Moisturiser: Choose a lightweight moisturiser that provides hydration without clogging pores. Look for non-comedogenic formulas to prevent breakouts. Ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid will keep the skin barrier hydrated. Apply moisturiser after cleansing to keep the skin hydrated.
  • Sunscreen: Teach them the importance of sun protection and encourage daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Look for products designed for children or sensitive skin. “The Heliocare 360 Oil-Free gel is a great choice for teens as it sinks in quickly and doesn’t feel sticky,” says Dr Mahto. Apply sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days.
  • Spot treatment: If they have occasional breakouts, consider a spot treatment with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Pimple patches are great for teens, as their ingredients lists are ultra-stripped-back. However, it’s important to consult a dermatologist for severe or persistent acne.

Should a 13 year-old do skincare?

The experts recommend a skincare routine that can remain pretty much the same between 12 and 14 years-old. You may want to add in treatment-style products if acne, oily skin or other issues occur. Krishna shares some additional tips that all teens should abide by for healthy, clear skin:

  • Avoid touching your face throughout the day to prevent the spread of bacteria and oil.
  • Be gentle when cleansing and drying your face to avoid irritating the skin.
  • Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet to promote overall skin health.
  • Avoid using heavy makeup or products that can clog pores.
  • Always remove makeup before going to bed to prevent breakouts.

It’s also important to think what’s best on an individual basis. “Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so it’s important to pay attention to how the skin reacts to different products and adjust the routine accordingly,” Krishna says. “If you have any concerns or persistent skin issues, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist,” he concluded.

Should teens and tweens be using active skincare?

There’s some unease around more potent active ingredients and whether they’re appropriate or safe for tween skin. “The main thing to keep in mind when it comes to younger skin is that we build a routine that is simple, effective, but one that doesn’t overwhelm the skin to the point where their delicate skin barrier can be compromised,” insists Dr Mahto. “If, however, there are some skincare concerns, the most common one being acne, then there are a few actives that can be introduced,” she adds.

“For young adults prone to breakouts, salicylic acid is a great active ingredient to introduce in the form of cleansers and toners (more on that below). Benzoyl peroxide can also help manage acne and spots,” advises Dr Ayed.

However, there are ways of adding these ingredients in that are measured and gentle. “Depending on the skin concern, I would advise introducing one active at a time,” recommends Dr Mahto. “If acne is a concern, then choose salicylic acid to begin with and keep the rest of the routine streamlined,” she says.

The frequency used can be tailored to tweens, too. For instance, you could introduce a new ingredient once or twice a week, in the evening, then build from there. The same goes for the strength (which is sometimes written on the bottle, e.g. 2% salicylic acid). “I would recommend starting with lower strengths to begin with. I would also encourage a patch test before introducing new products,” says Dr Mahto. “If specific skin concerns aren’t improving, please get in touch with a consultant dermatologist who will be able to provide a formal diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan,” she adds.

As for the best skincare ingredients to know for teenagers…

Vitamin C “Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the skin from free radicals from the sun and is a benefit to everyone regardless of age. It protects your skin from damage, stimulates collagen growth and supports existing collagen. I always warn my clients that the sun you get as a teen is going to affect how you look in your 30s, 40s, and 50s, which is why it’s important to start a good routine in your adolescence,” explains Dr Michael Gowen. “Vitamin C is also great for teens because it’s going to provide relief from hyperpigmentation caused by acne and overall supports skin tone and texture. My favourite Vitamin C for tweens, teens and beyond is the Bubble Skincare Day Dream Tone and Texture Serum. The derivative of Vitamin C used in Day Dream is a gentler form that’s perfect for young skin.
Salicylic acid Salicylic acid (also known as a BHA) is one of the most popular and derm-recommended products for counteracting acne, however it is a strong ingredient, so needs to be applied carefully. “Salicylic acid can be abrasive to the skin as it breaks down dead skin cells and combats inflammation which both can play a role in acne. For my clients with sensitive skin, I tell them to do a salicylic acid sandwich by using a toner, a layer of moisturiser, then the salicylic acid serum and finally another layer of moisturiser to help create a barrier and reduce redness and irritation,” advises Dr Gowen. “I love the Bubble Skincare Super Clear Blemish Prevention Serum (2% Salicylic Acid) for my sensitive clients because the formula includes Willow Bark Extract and Colloidal Oatmeal which have anti-inflammatory benefits,” he says.

What are the best skincare products for teenagers with acne-prone skin?

While many of us growing up may have bought into the ‘more is more’ approach for treating teenage acne, these days we understand much more that a gentle approach is preferable for delicate younger complexions. “When it comes to my younger clients, I see a lot of overuse of harsh chemicals,” says Dr Gowen. “In pre-teen and teen years, you can never go wrong with a gentle skincare routine. It’s best to use products with the least amount of harsh chemicals and a simple routine that will keep you consistent and increase compliance for years to come,” he says.

“I’d be cautious about over-exfoliating the skin. Ensure your teen isn’t using a chemical exfoliator (liquid toners and serums with AHAs and PHAs like glycolic acid) and a physical exfoliator (think: face scrubs) at the same time, to avoid irritation,” says Dr Ayed. “Ceramides can help protect young adults’ skin barrier whilst retaining moisture, too,” she recommends.

In addition to ceramides and a simple, barrier-boosting routine, pimple patches are suitable for teen skin, as most are simply made from a hydrocolloid material. Some do feature acids, but for individual spots, they are mostly OK to use on younger faces.

Also, be wary of oil-infused formulas if your teen is experiencing spots. “Young adults are prone to developing oily skin due to hormonal changes, so oil-free formulas and skincare designed to soothe breakouts are useful too,” says Dr Ayed. “Many brands now create skincare products specifically for teen skin, which are gentle enough to be used in the morning and evening and can help alleviate skin concerns; allowing your young adult to feel their best,” she says.


Editor-approved 4-step skincare routine for teenagers, categorised by skin type:


Best for all skin types:

Bubble Slam Dunk Hydrating Cream Moisturiser

Why we love it: Bubble’s Slam Dunk Hydrating Moisturiser is a great everyday cream that suits all skin types. It features a nourishing (and non-greasy) formula that’s packed with restorative nutrients, such as Aloe Leaf Juice and Hoya Lacosuna Flower Extract. Soothing, hydrating and hydrating – what’s not to love?

Review: “It does a really good job of hydrating skin and keeping it nourished and soft without it feeling too heavy,” 15-year-old Leela said.

– Key ingredients: Vitamin E, Avocado Oil, Glycerin.

– Fragrance free: yes.

Pros

  • Skin is left feeling nourished, calm and protected.
  • Aloe Leaf Juice is an antioxidant that protects, soothes, and moisturises.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin. 

Cons

Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser

Why we love it: Like a green juice for the face, this rich gel cleanser is a powerful but gentle daily face wash. Formulated with superfood antioxidants including kale, spinach, and green tea, it works effectively to prevent buildup in pores, remove makeup, and balance pH without drying or stripping the skin.

– Key ingredients: Spinach, Aloe Vera, Green Tea.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum

Why we love it: Every dermatologist knows that hyaluronic acid is always a safe bet for every skin type, particularly when it comes to face serums. Our top pick? The Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid serum, which comes approved by our very own Senior Beauty Editor Elle Turner, who rates this formula for its hydrating properties and quality ingredients.

– Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Volcanic Mineralizing Water.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Supergoop! Supersize Unseen Sunscreen SPF30

Why we love it: Forget a chalky finish or uncomfortable texture, this sunscreen is one of the best formulas around, suitable for every skin type. Making everyday suncare realistic, the formula is totally invisible while providing broad-spectrum protection without ever blocking pores or increasing oil production. A must.

– Key ingredients: Red Algae and Frankincense.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Feels lightweight and undetectable on skin.

Cons

  • Can feel a little greasy on oily skin.

Best for acne-prone skin

Origins Super Spot Remover Blemish Treatment Gel 10ml

Why we love it: A long standing bestseller for a reason, this blemish-fighting formula penetrates deep into pores to help clear them of debris, fight blemishes including blackheads, and help prevent new spots form by absorbing excess oil. With 1.5% Salicylic Acid, it gets to work fast and makes clear skin a reality quick.

– Key ingredients: Salicylic Acid.

Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Great for larger, one-off spots.

Cons

  • Can cause irritation if overused.

Spots & Stripes – Skin Goals Gentle Cleansing Lotion for Girls

Why we love it: London-based Spots & Stripes make beauty products for teens and teens only – with an ethos of simple yet effective products that don’t damage delicate young skin. This cleansing lotion follows the same philosophy. Vitamin-soaked oils, virgin coconut and kukui lift away impurities to leave skin feeling balanced and soft while essential oils like chamomile, lavender and mint calm, refresh and combat blemish-causing bacteria.

– Key ingredients: Virgin Coconut Oil , Kukui and Kanuka.

– Fragrance free: No.

Pros

  • Cleanses effectively and removes build-up.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for dry/sensitive skin.

Bubble Super Clear 2% Salicylic Acid Blemish Prevention Serum

Why we love it: This salicylic acid has been blended with colloidal oatmeal to make it gentle. It can help break down dead skin cells that can block pores and lead to acne. Introduce it slowly once or twice a week then increase frequency as needed

Review: “The Super Clear Serum has reduced the appearance of any blemishes I had. However, if you have sensitive skin I would recommend only using the serum a couple of times a week, rather than every night, because it may feel too much for your skin,” tester Josie said.

– Key ingredients: Salicylic Acid and Colloidal Oatmeal.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Targets spots with salicylic acid.

Cons

  • Can damage young skin if overused.

Paula’s Choice Clear Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF30+

Why we love it: Ideal for breakout-prone skin, this super lightweight daily moisturiser with SPF minimises shine and the appearance of pores. Not only is it non-comedogenic, but it’s also formulated to ensure lasting hydration without feeling greasy on the skin. It also features soothing properties as well as a mattifying finish to keep excess shine at bay, making it suitable for oily skin too.

– Key ingredients: Green tea extract and Vitamin E.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Protects while also targeting spots.

Cons

The Inkey List Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches

Why we love it: Having some pimple patches in your arsenal will not only help keep breakouts at bay, but also help boost confidence. Breakouts can be pretty hard to deal with during teenage years. The INKEY List’s Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches are clinically proven to minimise the look of blemishes in just four hours. Hydrocolloid with salicylic and succinic acids help purify the skin and visibly diminish redness, while ectoin provides a boost of hydration. She can also wear them under makeup.

– Key ingredients: Hydrocolloid, Salicylic Acid, Succinic Acid and Ectoin.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

Cons

  • To help keep in place, they’ll need to avoid applying multiple layers of skincare and/or makeup over the patch.

Hero Mighty Pimple Patches Original 24

Why we love it: The Hero Mighty Pimple Patches are considered the best for a reason. Whether you’re dealing with an early-stage zit or if you’re trying to sort out a more stubborn pimple, these overnight patches will help in the most effective and quick way possible. Loaded with medical-grade hydrocolloid, The Hero Mighty Pimple Patches will help absorb impurities within 6-8 hours while you’re sound asleep. Also suitable for sensitive skin.

– Key ingredients: Hydrocolloid.

– Fragrance free: Yes.


Best for oily skin

Teen Skin Fix Zero Shine Moisturiser

Why we love it: From an affordable skincare brand Nip + Fab, the excellent Teen Skin range is a great starting point. This formula comes with mattifying powders to ensure shine-free days while niacinamide helps to regulate sebum production and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.

– Key ingredients: Niacinamide and Zinc.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Mattifying with soothing niacinamide.

Cons

CeraVe Foaming Cleanser with Niacinamide

Why we love it: A foaming gel face wash is a good choice to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup but you don’t want something that ever strips the skin. This soap-free formula is therefore just the ticket. Packed with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, this cleanser maintains the skin’s protective barrier, combats excess sebum and locks in moisture while calming the skin.

– Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

Cons

  • May not be suitable for dry skin (the hydrating formula is preferable).

Bubble Day Dream Vitamin C + Niacinamide Serum

Why we love it: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can protect skin from damage, stimulate collagen growth and support existing collagen. It can provide relief from hyperpigmentation caused by acne and overall, support skin tone and texture. This serum contains a gentler derivative of vitamin C that’s better-suited to young skin.

Review: “When I then used the Day Dream Serum afterwards, and this made my skin feel even and smooth,” 15-year-old Leela told us. “This was a very good product and I rate it an 7/10.”

– Key ingredients: Vitamin C and Niacinamide.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Brightening and full of antioxidants.

Cons

  • May be too potent for sensitive skin types.

Heliocare 360 Oil-Free Gel SPF 50

Why we love it: Young skin needs SPF 30 and above every day – but 50 if possible – without fail. This sunscreen for face is a great choice for teens as it sinks in quickly and doesn’t feel sticky. It features SPF 50 protection and is fortified with vitamins C and E, plus green tea extract, to lead the antioxidant defence against pollutants. Suitable for normal to oily skin types, this SPF formula also features a matte finish and should be reapplied every two hours if sun exposure is high.

– Key ingredients: Vitamin C and E, plus green tea extract.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Oil-free and high protection.

Cons


Best for sensitive skin

Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream 50ml

Why we love it: This feather-light, oil-free moisturiser feels cooling on the skin and works wonders on thirsty skin in need of a big glass of hydration. Thanks to the Tri-Ceramide Complex (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids), it bolsters the skin barrier while adding moisture.

– Key ingredients: Ceramides, Niacinamide and Green Tea.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Lightweight and hydrating.

Cons

  • Dry skin may need a richer formulation.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser Sensitive Skin

Why we love it: French pharmacy brands are always a safe bet when it comes to simple-yet-effective skincare and La Roche Posay is the cream of the crop. Suitable for the most sensitive of skin types, this milky cleanser soothes skin and removes daily grime and makeup without ever stripping the skin.

– Key ingredients: Glycerine and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Very gentle and soothing on skin.

Cons

  • Not always enough to remove makeup alone.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Facial Moisturiser

Why we love it: When it comes to picking the right moisturiser for sensitive skin, you can’t go wrong with French pharmaceutical brands such as La Roche-Posay. Formulated specially for sensitive skin in mind, this cream is enriched with glycerin, ceramide and niacinamide to help soothe the skin and deliver lasting hydration.

– Key ingredients: Ceramides, glycerin, vitamin B3.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Eucerin Sun Allergy Protection Sun Cream for Face & Body SPF 50+

Why we love it: Whether you’re prone to allergies or eye sensitivity, this suitable SPF formula from Eucerin is one of the most quality option out there, and for a good reason. This clincally-proven formulation is fragrance free, water resistant, non-greasy and lightweight – all of which are important factors to keep in mind if you have sensitive skin.

– Key ingredients: Glycerin, among standard SPF ingredients.

– Fragrance free: Yes.


Best for dry skin

BYOMA Moisturising Rich Cream

Why we love it: If you’re looking for a quality moisturiser for dry or dehydrated skin, we highly recommend this rich formula from Byoma, which boasts a unique barrier boosting Tri-Ceramide Complex that will soothe the skin and help strengthen its natural moisture barrier. Oh, and did we mention that it also comes tested and approved by dermatologists?

– Key ingredients: Ceramides, fatty acids, bakuchiol.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

Why we love it: This gentle, fragrance-free cleanser removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin of moisture, plus it’s packed with barrier-building ceramides. It can be used in the morning and evening. All you’ll need to do is wet the skin with lukewarm water and massage the cleaner into your face in gentle, circular motions. Then, rinse.

– Key ingredients: Ceramides.
– Fragrance free: Yes.

Pros

  • Super gentle, suitable for all.

Cons

  • Honestly? Nothing we can think of!

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% and B5

Why we love it: Name a more fitting duo than dry skin and hyaluronic acid… we’ll wait. This hydration hero from The Ordinary is not only affordable but is also proven to deliver instant results, offering a visibly glowy and plump complexion immediately after application. Over long-term use, this formula can also help soothe irritation and deliver the necessary nourishment that the skin so desperately needs during the change of seasons.

– Key ingredients: 5 forms of hyaluronic acid, ceramides.

– Fragrance free: Yes.

Ultra Violette Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF 50+

Why we love it: Ultra Violette is a coveted Australian brand that’s known for their quality sunscreen formulas. One of their bestsellers? The Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF, which is one of the best hydrating formulas we’ve tried at GLAMOUR HQ. Offering a dewy finish, this sunscreen doesn’t result in a white cast and sits beautifully underneath makeup.

– Key ingredients: Bemotrizinol, Bisoctrizole, Squalane.

– Fragrance free: N/A.





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