Your Daily Skincare Routine

10 Things Every Teen Should Know About Skin Care

We all want to put our best face forward, but the teenage years, or adolescence, can leave some wanting to hide from the world.

Your teenager may not be tackling wrinkles just yet, but they may be facing zits, blackheads and even sensitive skin. During these formative years, standing out from the crowd with a major zit or red, irritated skin can be embarrassing and downright depressing. Things like acne can be especially challenging if your teen is being bullied or teased as a result.

“Acne often causes significant physical and psychological problems, such as permanent scarring, poor self-image, depression and anxiety,” said Rebecca Thiede, MD, a dermatologist with Banner – University Medical Center Tucson. “In fact, within the first year of an acne diagnosis, those with acne are at a higher risk for developing major depression.”

Surging hormones and peer pressures are not always easy in this stage of life, but the good news is that clear, healthy skin is possible. Here are 10 dermatologist-approved skincare tips for keeping your teen’s skin glowing.

1. Keep your skincare routine simple.

Keep the skincare routine simple and consistent. A good routine can backfire when there are too many steps. “I like to tell my patients that a simple routine is twice a day, morning and night.”

Wash your face twice a day – when you wake up and before you go to bed. You’ll want to also wash your face after a sweaty activity.

To keep face washing top of mind, place your products next to your toothbrush and do it at the same time as brushing your teeth to be consistent.

As well, avoid using a washcloth, mesh sponge or anything else that can irritate the skin. Instead, use your fingertips to wash your face and apply product.

2. Use oil-free and non-comedogenic products.

Look for products that won’t block pores. These products will be labeled as “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic,” which won’t create comedones, the blackheads and whiteheads that clog pores. This is true not just for moisturizers but for makeup and sunscreen as well.

3. Wear sunscreen, even in the winter.

A good habit for life is to protect skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Rain, snow or shine, sunscreen is a must.

“Even if you’ll be wearing makeup, make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher,” Dr. Thiede said. “Dry and sun-damaged skin is irritated skin, and irritated skin can put you at greater risk for acne.”

4. Tackle acne head-on, early on.

Acne is common during puberty when hormones go into overdrive. If you start to have minor breakouts, start with one acne product at a time. If you don’t see improvement after four to six weeks, add a second acne product. This approach can help attack the different causes of acne, such as bacteria, clogged pores, oil and inflammation.

[Also read: Acne Care Dos and Don’ts.]

“For example, if an acne treatment that contains benzoyl peroxide, the second acne treatment should contain another acne-fighting ingredient,” Dr. Thiede said.

To help select another product, here’s what the different active ingredients work on:

Benzoyl peroxide decreases P. acnes bacteria

Retinoids, such as adapalene gel, unclogs pores and reduces oiliness

Salicylic acid eases inflammation and unclogs pores

Even if your acne is improving or clearing up, it’s important to continue with the regimen. “The regimen is working if you are clear and works better if you’re preventing acne instead of treating existing breakouts,” Dr. Thiede noted.

5. Don’t sleep in your makeup.

Make sure to remove makeup every night before bedtime.

“Even noncomedogenic makeup can cause acne if you sleep in it,” Dr. Thiede said. “If you’re too tired to wash your face, a makeup remover towelette works—just make sure it’s noncomedogenic.”

[Also read: Makeup Myths We Should Stop Believing.]

6. Wash your pillowcase and sheets.

Are you washing or changing the sheets and pillowcases once a week? If they aren’t laundered or changed regularly, a build of dirt or oil from the environment and your skin and hair is transferred back to your skin.

“By the end of one week, sheets and pillowcases are swarming with dead skin cells and bacteria,” Dr. Thiede said. “These can clog your pores, leading to breakouts.”

If you have oily hair or use oily products, you may need to change your sheets more often.

7. Avoid touching, picking, scrubbing and overdoing it with products.

Over-exfoliating, popping pimples, washing your face too frequently, trying new acne products weekly all feel great in the moment but can lead to irritation of the skin and more breakouts.

“Avoid doing too much too fast as it can irritate the skin, cause allergic reactions and worsen acne,” Dr. Thiede said. “Picking or popping pimples is also a big no-no. This can lead to scarring and also take the pimple longer to heal.”

8. Sensitive skin? Use the spot test.

Everyone’s skin is different. If you have sensitive skin, however, it can make locating products that won’t burn, sting or itch a bit more challenging. Try to look for products that are noncomedogenic and fragrance-free.

If your teen is prone to being sensitive to products, Dr. Thiede suggested the test spot approach:

Apply the product to a test spot twice daily for seven to 10 days. Choose a quarter-sized spot on your skin where the product won’t be rubbed or washed away, such as the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow. Use the normal amount and thickness you would use as if you were applying the product regularly.

Choose a quarter-sized spot on your skin where the product won’t be rubbed or washed away, such as the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow. Use the normal amount and thickness you would use as if you were applying the product regularly. Leave the product on your skin for as long as you would normally. If you’re testing something you would usually wash off, like a cleanser, keep it on your skin for five minutes or as long as the instructions say.

If you’re testing something you would usually wash off, like a cleanser, keep it on your skin for five minutes or as long as the instructions say. If after seven to 10 days you don’t have a skin reaction , such as red, itchy or swollen skin, go ahead and use the product.

, such as red, itchy or swollen skin, go ahead and use the product. If a rash or burning develops, an allergic reaction could be occurring. If this happens, gently wash the product off as soon as possible and don’t use it again. Apply a cool compress or petroleum jelly to relieve skin. If your reaction is severe and not improving, see your health care provider or dermatologist.

“Some common ingredients for acne, such as retinol and glycolic acid, can irritate the skin, particularly if your skin is sensitive,” Dr. Thiede. “This is normal and temporary, until people’s skin gets used to the new product. It’s important to continue the product through this phase while also moisturizing.”

9. Eat a balanced diet.

Sugary drinks and treats with friends are tempting but may not help their skin.

“Emerging data suggests that high glycemic index diets (high levels of sugar) may be associated with acne,” Dr. Thiede said. “There’s some evidence as well that some dairy, particularly skim milk, may influence acne. Whey protein in protein shakes has been shown to influence acne.”

Whenever possible, eat fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and low-GI options of your favorite carb-rich foods. For example, opt for whole grain oatmeal versus a plain bagel or whole wheat bread versus white bread.

And don’t forget water. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration is great for overall health and your skin.

10. Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.

A dermatologist is happy to help every step of your skincare journey, especially the acne journey.

“Acne is really a journey,” Dr. Thiede said. “What works for you now might not work in a year. It’s important to see a dermatologist if your acne isn’t improving despite consistent over-the-counter treatment, significant flares or scarring is occurring or if it is affecting your self-esteem.”

Today, virtually all acne can be cleared. If you’re not seeing results on your own, a dermatologist can help find the right treatment and/or acne medication. For moderate to severe acne, you may be prescribed an oral or topical acne medication, such as antibiotics like sarecycline, isotretinoin or hormonal birth control.

Final word

Skin problems can put a damper on your teen living their best life (YOLO!). Help them put their best face forward by adopting skin-care habits that can keep zits at bay and prevent emotional and physical scarring. If necessary, work with your teen’s health care provider or a dermatologist.

“Studies show that teens do better when they take ownership of their acne and develop a good routine with their dermatologist,” Dr. Thiede said. “It can feel like nagging when it comes from parents.”

To discuss your teenager’s skincare needs with a dermatologist, find a provider near you at

Also read:

Join the Conversation

The Right Skincare Routine Order, According to Dermatologists

With so many products like the best toners, anti-aging creams, and niacinamide serums hitting the market, it can be confusing knowing what you should use when. There is a time and place for each, so figuring out the correct skincare routine steps to follow day and night will set you and your complexion up for success.

So, why does the order of your skincare routine matter? Applying products in the wrong sequence can diminish efficacy and therefore results—whether that’s due to the texture or the ingredients. You could be using all of the latest and greatest formulas, but if you’re not using them correctly, you’re defeating the purpose.

It might be best to start with a simple, no-frills approach before loading up on extras while you get the hang of things. And while it can be exciting—make sure you don’t pile on new skincare all at once, which is a recipe for breakouts and can make it difficult to know which are working and which aren’t.

Ahead, find the best daytime and nighttime dermatologist-approved skincare routine steps—from the basics to the advanced.

Basic skincare routine order

There’s a laundry list of skincare goodies that you can add to your routine and while a multi-step approach has its benefits, it’s not a necessity. In fact, less is often more when it comes to skincare. If you’re just getting your toes wet in the beauty world or want to minimize your routine, here are basic skincare routine steps to follow in order:

1. Cleanser

2. Moisturizer

3. Sunscreen

“Just keep it simple,” says Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified adult, pediatric, and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ. “The goals are just to make sure you’re hydrating your skin, you’re protecting yourself from the sun, and you’re cleansing. That’s all you really need.”

The steps for applying skincare products

If you’re using more than just the basics, it can be difficult to know the correct order for various skincare routine steps. Thankfully, there’s a pretty simple rule when it comes to layering your lotions, serums, and masks.“The general rule of thumb, just like your clothes, is lighter to heavy,” explains Mona Gohara, M.D., an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine and Prevention Medical Review Board member. Thicker or heavier products, like moisturizers and oils, are meant to be protective, Dr. Gohara says. Applying those at the end of your routine will help seal in your other steps and keep skin healthy, she notes. Also, applying heavier before lighter will prevent the ingredients in your products from absorbing into the skin properly.

Skincare routine order

1. Cleanser

Step one, day and night, should always be cleansing. In the morning, “use a gentle cleanser to get rid of the oil that you accumulated overnight on your face,” Dr. Lal explains. Non-foaming or oil-based cleansers are great products to use to gently cleanse and prep skin for the day ahead.

At nighttime, the same concept of gentle cleansing applies to remove “whatever dirt or oils accumulated during the day,” explains Dr. Lal. Also, if you wear makeup try double cleansing at night with a balm or oil to remove makeup before a second wash to truly cleanse the skin. Here’s what to look for in a cleanser based on your skin type.

Dry/sensitive skin : A creamy, non-foaming, and hydrating face wash with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides will help cleanse dry, sensitive skin while keeping it hydrated. Look for a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic face wash, says Dr. Lal.

: A creamy, non-foaming, and hydrating face wash with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides will help cleanse dry, sensitive skin while keeping it hydrated. Look for a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic face wash, says Dr. Lal. Oily/acne-prone skin: Oily skin types or those that struggle with acne should use a cleanser balanced with hydrating and nourishing ingredients in addition to an active ingredient like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide meant to keep acne and oil at bay, Nazanin Saedi, M.D., director of the Jefferson Laser Surgery and Cosmetic Dermatology Center in Philadelphia, previously told Prevention .

Oily skin types or those that struggle with acne should use a cleanser balanced with hydrating and nourishing ingredients in addition to an active ingredient like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide meant to keep acne and oil at bay, Nazanin Saedi, M.D., director of the Jefferson Laser Surgery and Cosmetic Dermatology Center in Philadelphia, . Combination skin: Look for a gel or cream-to-foam texture face wash that will cleanse skin of excess dirt, oil, or makeup without stripping the skin of its natural moisture, ​​Marisa K. Garshick, M.D., a dermatologist located in New York City, previously told Prevention .

2. Toner

Toners might not be necessary for your routine, but using the right one can help target specific concerns like dullness or dryness, and serve as a great way to prepare your skin for absorbing the rest of your products. Toners are often thin and have a watery texture—meaning you’ll want to apply one right after cleansing, before any thicker or heavier products. Here’s what to look for in a toner based on your skin type.

Dry/sensitive skin : Skip the actives in your toners and instead opt for formulas that contain moisturizing and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, Corey L. Hartman, M.D., Founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL, previously explained . While hydrating toners can be a great way to provide dry skin with an extra dose of moisture, if your skin is too sensitive to tolerate toners, this step is fine to skip.

: Skip the actives in your toners and instead opt for formulas that contain moisturizing and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, Corey L. Hartman, M.D., Founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL, . While hydrating toners can be a great way to provide dry skin with an extra dose of moisture, if your skin is too sensitive to tolerate toners, this step is fine to skip. Oily/acne-prone skin: Look for exfoliating beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), or poly hydroxy acids (PHAs)—like salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acids—to help clear pores and reduce sebum production, New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist Zain Husain, M.D, told Prevention .

Look for exfoliating beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), or poly hydroxy acids (PHAs)—like salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acids—to help clear pores and reduce sebum production, New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist Zain Husain, M.D, . Combination skin: If you have combination skin pick a toner that has both hydrating ingredients as well as gentle actives to gently prep your skin for the products to follow, says Dr. Husain.

3. Treatment or medication

If you use any sort of treatment or prescription topical medication for a specific skin concern like acne or rosacea, you want to apply those early on in your routine for increased absorption. Things like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide creams, topical antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory creams are “the good stuff,” Dr. Lal explains—“we want those to get absorbed properly.” Listen to your dermatologist regarding what time of day your medicated treatments should be applied.

4. Retinols

Retinols (note: not retinoids, which are prescribed, stronger retinol) should always be applied during your evening skincare routine only, as sunlight will degrade most formulas and these products make your skin more sensitive to the sun, explains Dr. Lal. Like other treatments or medicated products, these should be applied as early as possible in your routine so your skin can soak in all the benefits. Retinols can be safely used on all skin types, and below Dr. Lal breaks down how to choose one that will work best for you.

Dry/sensitive skin: Retinol, as opposed to a stronger formula like a retinoid, “is the best place to start for beginners and/or those with dry [or sensitive] skin,” explains Dr. Lal. Use it with a quality moisturizer two to three nights per week before working up to nightly application.

Retinol, as opposed to a stronger formula like a retinoid, “is the best place to start for beginners and/or those with dry [or sensitive] skin,” explains Dr. Lal. Use it with a quality moisturizer two to three nights per week before working up to nightly application. Oily/acne-prone skin: Those with oily and/or acne-prone skin will benefit from a product containing adapalene—“which is a true retinoid, and is much stronger than retinol,” says Dr. Lal.

Those with oily and/or acne-prone skin will benefit from a product containing adapalene—“which is a true retinoid, and is much stronger than retinol,” says Dr. Lal. Combination skin: Choose a gentle retinol product before working your way up to using a product containing retinaldehyde—“which is stronger than a retinol, but weaker than a retinoid,” explains Dr. Lal.

5. Serum

Face serums are thinner than a moisturizer or lotion and thicker than a toner, so make sure you sandwich yours in between the two. The best part about serums is that they are highly concentrated formulas meant to treat an array of skin concerns, depending on the ingredients. Serums can be used both morning and night, but some formulas are best suited to one or the other.

Vitamin C and other antioxidant serums should be applied during the daytime, as these formulas help protect your skin from elements like UV rays and pollution. Hydrating serums or reparative serums (like retinol or AHA/BHA containing serums) are best used at night, when your skin naturally seeks to repair itself. Here’s how to choose the best serum for your skin type.

Dry/sensitive skin: Choose a fragrance-free serum with hydrating and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E, and aloe vera, Dianne Davis, M.D., board-certified dermatologist, previously explained.

Choose a fragrance-free serum with hydrating and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E, and aloe vera, Dianne Davis, M.D., board-certified dermatologist, previously explained. Oily/acne-prone skin: If you’re not already using a targeted or medicated treatment elsewhere in your routine, look for a serum containing acne and oil busting ingredients like salicylic acid or retinol to help exfoliate and regulate your skin, Dr. Gohara previously told Prevention.

If you’re not already using a targeted or medicated treatment elsewhere in your routine, look for a serum containing acne and oil busting ingredients like salicylic acid or retinol to help exfoliate and regulate your skin, Dr. Gohara previously told Prevention. Combination skin: Serums are all about targeting an area of concern, which often varies among those of us with combination skin. A great ingredient for those seeking to restore balance to their skin is niacinamide, which helps regulate oil protection and maintain overall moisture and hydration—in addition to a whole host of other benefits, Beverly Hills-based board-certified dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse, M.D., previously explained.

6. Eye cream

Eye creams tend to be more lightweight than your all-over face cream, plus they often contain ingredients meant to target specific concerns—so definitely apply these before a face moisturizer, Dr. Lal says. If you’d like to give your eye area an extra boost of moisture or tackle things like dark circles, wrinkles, or undereye bags, an eye cream is a great addition to your skincare routine. Apply simple, hydrating formulas during the daytime and reserve your targeted treatments (like those with retinol, or thicker creams) for the evening.

7. Moisturizer

Moisturizer, no matter your skin type, is an essential step to healthy skin. Applying the right face moisturizer will help lock in hydration and moisture and support the skin barrier. This step also serves as a way to seal in all of your other products—like toners, treatments, and serums. Here’s how to choose the best moisturizer for your skin type.

Dry/sensitive skin: Similar to other products, look for a simple formula containing hydrating, moisturizing, and nourishing ingredients, Dr. Gohara previously explained. A fragrance-free formula and a shorter ingredient list are also important for those with sensitive skin.

Similar to other products, look for a simple formula containing hydrating, moisturizing, and nourishing ingredients, Dr. Gohara previously explained. A fragrance-free formula and a shorter ingredient list are also important for those with sensitive skin. Oily/acne-prone skin: Moisturizer is key, even if you have acne-prone or oily skin. Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer with a lightweight gel formula full of hydrating ingredients to help regulate your skin, Arielle Kauvar, M.D., director of New York Laser & Skin Care and clinical professor of dermatology at New York University School of Medicine, previously told Prevention.

Moisturizer is key, even if you have acne-prone or oily skin. Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer with a lightweight gel formula full of hydrating ingredients to help regulate your skin, Arielle Kauvar, M.D., director of New York Laser & Skin Care and clinical professor of dermatology at New York University School of Medicine, previously told Prevention. Combination skin: Similar to those with oily skin, look for lightweight, simple, hydrating formulas, according to Dr. Kauvar.

8. Sunscreen

Applying your SPF daily “really isn’t negotiable,” says Dr. Gohara. No matter your skin tone or type, or if you’re indoors or outdoors, apply at least SPF 30 every single morning to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Searching for the best sunscreen? Check out what to look for according to your skin type.

Dry/sensitive skin: Look for a hydrating sunscreen with skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City explained previously. For those with particularly sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens can be great options, too.

Look for a hydrating sunscreen with skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City explained previously. For those with particularly sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens can be great options, too. Oily/acne-prone skin: Try using a mineral sunscreen to avoid triggering any acne breakouts, Dendy Engelman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City previously told Prevention. There are also lots of mattifying options on the market to avoid a shiny complexion.

Try using a mineral sunscreen to avoid triggering any acne breakouts, Dendy Engelman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City previously told Prevention. There are also lots of mattifying options on the market to avoid a shiny complexion. Combination skin: Similar to those with oily skin, look for a lightweight formula. You can also use a powder sunscreen on your shiny areas.

Your Daily Skincare Routine

Sure, we all know a quick and balanced daily skincare routine is a good idea. But with so many lotions, creams and tips out there, it’s hard to know where to start! Plus, time is of the essence—nobody wants to spend hours in the bathroom. Well, we've got you covered! From why we should use a toner to tips on how to streamline your routine. (Three minutes? Yes, please!) Here’s everything you need to know on the skincare basics so your skin will be cleansed, feel refreshed and prepared for each morning, and cared for each night.

Step 1: Cleanse

Make cleansing step one of a simple skincare routine

Make cleansing step one of a simple skincare routine Should you wash your face in the morning and evening? Yes. Even if a few, short minutes is all you have, freshly cleansed skin twice a day is a good place to start your routine.

A great cleanser, like Simple® Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Water, will rid your skin of dirt and impurities (and make-up too!) without leaving your skin feeling taut and dry. It’ll prep your skin for your next skincare steps, meaning products like your moisturizer will work better. Missed your alarm?

Skip your regular morning skincare routine and speed things up by trying a facial cleansing wipe as your morning cleanser while you brew your morning joe. Rocked a bold red lip today? A facial cleansing oil will melt away make-up remains without drying out your skin.

“Whether you've got 3 minutes or 15, cleansing should always be step one of a basic skincare routine.”