During adolescence, skincare can get very confusing, partly due to TikTok trends, misinformation and ignorance.  This is mainly due to attention grabbing techniques and usually has nothing to do with the facts.

Among the myriad of products and routines marketed towards young people, one fundamental step—moisturising—stands out for its critical importance. In this guide, we'll explore why moisturising should be the essential part of every teenager's personal care habit.  

The Science of Teen Skin

Young adult skin is unique because it's subjected to hormonal changes that can significantly affect its appearance and health. During adolescence, increased hormone levels can lead to higher sebum production, which can make skin oily and may lead to acne and other skin issues. However, oily skin still needs hydration. Hydration of the skin strengthens its barrier function, reducing susceptibility to irritants and bacteria.

The Role of Moisturisers

Balancing Oil Production

Over-washing and skipping applying a moisturiser can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading the body to compensate by producing even more oil. A well-formulated moisturiser can provide necessary hydration without adding excessive oil, helping to maintain balance and help regulate the skin's natural oil levels.

Preventing Acne

While it might seem counterintuitive, keeping the skin well-hydrated is crucial for preventing acne. Dry skin can lead to small cracks in the skin barrier that allow bacteria to enter and cause more issues. Moisturisers containing ingredients like Squalane, Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) and Aloe may help to reduce inflammation and improve the skin’s overall condition.  

Enhancing Skin Barrier

The skin barrier protects against external pollutants and bacteria. Regular use of an appropriate moisturiser enhances the skin's barrier function, which is particularly beneficial for teenagers who may be experimenting with different makeup and skincare products that may be disrupting the skin barrier.

Addressing Skin Texture and Tone

Moisturising can also improve the texture and tone of the skin. Keeping skin hydrated helps to maintain both the look and feel of your skin.

Choosing the Right Moisturiser

Not all moisturisers are created equal, especially when it comes to teenage skin. Here are some guidelines for selecting an appropriate product:

Oil in formulation

if your skin is already oily (very common in young adults due to excess sebum production), opting for an oil-free moisturiser prevents adding excess oil to the skin which in turn can help reduce breakouts.

Ingredients

Glycerin, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) and Squalane are all proven to help keep the skin barrier in good condition. Ingredients sourced from Aloe can also help in reducing redness and actives such as Butyl Avocadate can help in reducing excess sebum production. 

3 Takeaways

1 - Using a carefully selected moisturiser during the teenage years can lay the foundation for healthy skin not just during adolescence but also for moving into your 20’s.

2 - If you apply regularly, you can significantly improve your skin's health and appearance, helping to support self-confidence and giving skin the best chance in dealing with common issues.

3 - As with any skincare advice, everybody’s skin is different and what suits you may not suit someone else, so keep experimenting with products until you find the right combination of products that help you but whatever you do, make moisturising a pivotal part of your daily routine.