Teenage is a time of extreme changes in life because of hormonal changes, and skin being a mirror of any internal changes reflects these.
According to Dr Nishita Ranka, dermatologist, Medical Director and founder of Dr Nishita'a Clinic for Skin, Hair & Aesthetics, India, “A state of teenage skin, I would say, would be transitional because it is going through changes, so it can suddenly become dry, mostly it becomes oily because of the hormonal changes that are occurring.”
So this is the time, like the rest of your body, your skin is also going through a transition or a completely normal change phase, and most kids go through this as they enter teenage.
Should a teenager take care of their skin?
Teenagers need to take care of their skin, especially during this transition phase, because they might get confused about what is happening and develop hair in certain parts of their bodies. They might start seeing some areas of their skin oily, like their nose or cheeks.
“They can sometimes start developing blackheads and whiteheads; hence it is essential to take care of the skin from this young age because this can be the foundation of a good skincare routine into the 20s and adulthood as well," the doctor said.
Common mistakes
“The most common mistakes that I see teenagers making are either not using anything at all and thinking that it is all normal and the rest of the body is going through changes and acne will also reduce on its own. So they don't do anything.”
“Another category is the Instagram or YouTube teenagers who are looking at many products and using a 10-step skincare routine, also using anti-ageing as a teenager, which is not required,” added Dr Nishita.
Both cases are not ideal. Just a basic skincare routine is advisable.
Maintaining healthy skin
To embrace a skincare routine, it's important to understand the skin type. A simple test can determine whether your skin is dry, oily, or a combination. Just wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry and for the next 30-60 minutes, do not apply anything on your face and see how the skin is after an hour.
“If your skin has started looking or feeling oily, then you are probably an oily kind. Dry skin type would feel stretchy and dry. And if some parts of your skin, like the nose, are oily and the rest of your skin is dry, you are a combination kind,” explained Dr Nishita.
Products according to skin type
A basic skincare routine consisting of a good cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen is usually enough for teenagers. Do not use too many active ingredients or products if you have no active problems.
If your skin is fine, you need to use a good cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen suited for your skin type.
“If you have some active problems like acne or pigmentation, you can use a gentle spot treatment on that area after consulting a qualified dermatologist.”
Things to keep in mind
Dr Nishita's suggestion regarding makeovers, especially for teenagers, is not to get overwhelmed by all these changes happening to your skin. Give it some time, and your skin will settle down once you are over the active phase.
You don't need too many products to spoil your naturally good skin.
Teenagers should not get influenced by whatever they see on social media. Not everybody’s skin is perfect, and it is completely normal to accept your skin with all of its changes at this age.
"But if you feel that something is wrong and bothering you, like acne or maybe pigmentation, then consult a qualified dermatologist for tips and suggestions because they can give the best guidance,” Dr Nishita concluded.
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