Start young, stay young! Did you know? Up to 80% of sun damage occurs before the age of 18. The sooner you start to care for your skin, the more protected you are against sun damage (hyperpigmentation), acne and further down the line, wrinkles. If you’re a parent, insuring that your children develop smart skin habits early will help them maintain a healthy skin regimen long-term.
Adolescent skin is often difficult to care for due to the hormone fluctuations that can generate an overproduction of sebum – the oil that’s naturally produced to keep skin soft and hydrated. This excess sebum can clog pores and create outbreaks of pimples and blackheads. Some of our favorite tips, below, to keep adolescent skin healthy and outbreak-free.
#1 – Start With a Clean Canvas
Before you can properly care for your complexion, you need to identify your skin type. The best way to do this is to visit a skincare expert. The five main skin types are normal, sensitive, dry, oily, and combination, and there are products devoted to each. Start by purchasing products that work for your skin. Wash your face daily and before bed and then apply a toner and/or moisturizer.
#2 – Moisturize
Why moisturize skin? When skin lacks hydration, it gets dry and flaky. A moisturizer will help increase the water content in the skin’s top layer. Note, too, the importance of choosing a moisturizer that includes a broad-spectrum sunscreen to help protect your skin from the sun’s rays (See #6).
#3 – Keep Skin Hydrated with H2O
Water is an essential part of a healthy and glowing complexion, so it’s important to drink at least eight glasses each day. Water will help keep skin hydrated, flush out toxins and aid in weight loss. According to this, it also helps boost your immune system! Now that’s a win-win-win-win!
#4 – Treat Acne/Blemishes
Acne products containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid may help treat mild acne. The Obagi ClenziDerm line offers both of these ingredients, and it’s recommended for teens. Shop it, here. Note that it’s important to use acne medications on your entire face – not just the areas that have pimples. The goal is to treat all areas of the face to prevent future breakouts. If your skin gets dry, red or irritated, contact our skincare professionals at L’Arte Della Bellezza.
#5 – Protect Your Skin with SPF
The sun causes up to 90% of aging – so make sunblock your BFF! Choose one with an SPF of 30 or higher. Wearing sunscreen with protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants and wide-brimmed hats, while avoiding the sun’s peak hours may provide some protection against premature aging and skin cancer.
For more tips on choosing the right sunscreen, read this blog.
Always remember to consult with a skincare expert before using any new products. Interested in learning more about protecting and caring for teenage skin? We’d love to have you in for a consultation. Book your appointment today at https://lartebellezza.com/contact-us/.
References:
• http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/take_care/skin_tips.html
• http://skincare.allwomenstalk.com/tips-to-care-for-teenage-skin
• http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-4287/10-Reasons-Why-You-Should-
Drink-More-Water.html
