Safe and Simple Pre-Teen Skincare | Clean, Vegan, & Gentle
With a ten-year-old daughter, I am aware of the plethora of online videos showcasing young girls using skincare products like Bubble, Bioma, and Drunk elephant. Starting skincare at a young age is great for their skin. HOWEVER, a lot of these skincare lines were designed for adults and contain harsh chemicals that could end up hurting your pre-teen instead of helping them. Keep reading for a special Promo Code for our favorite products at the Bottom!
The key to good skincare at a young age is looking for products that are clean, vegan, gentle, and do not have harsh chemicals (especially ones with any acid or peeling effect).
Let’s Dive into how to teach your pre-teen good and SAFE skincare.
Understanding Pre-Teen Skin Needs
At this stage, skin is typically more sensitive and less oily than teenage skin, though some pre-teens might begin to experience minor breakouts.
The focus should be on gentle care that supports the skin’s natural barrier, rather than trying to control or treat acne.
Sunscreen is crucial, as young skin is more vulnerable to UV damage, which can have long-term effects.
2. Simple Steps for a Daily Routine
a. How should my preteen clean their Face?
Twice a day, Start with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that’s gentle on the skin. Look for products labeled “for sensitive skin” and avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol or sulfates.
Teach them to cleanse once in the morning and once in the evening to remove any sweat, dirt, or oils accumulated throughout the day.
Show them how to gently massage the cleanser into the skin in small circles, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
My favorite gentle cleanser: Evereden Steer Clear Balancing Jelly Cleanser
b. Moisturizing Basics (Once or Twice Daily)
Hydration is key, even for younger skin. A light, fragrance-free moisturizer keeps their skin balanced and prevents dryness.
Choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer to avoid clogged pores and make sure it's suitable for sensitive skin.
c. Sun Protection (Daily)
Sunscreen should become a part of their daily routine, even on cloudy days.
Opt for a gentle, mineral-based sunscreen like the one here. with an SPF of at least 30, applying it in the morning after moisturizing.
Ensuring daily sunscreen application is crucial for pre-teens, as their skin is more susceptible to UV damage that may result in long-term consequences.
3. How do I handle the Occasional Breakout?
If they experience minor breakouts, resist the urge to use strong acne treatments.
Instead, a mild, over-the-counter spot treatment containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can be applied sparingly. Use a spot treatment like the one here.
Remind them not to pick at pimples, as this can lead to scarring.
4. Healthy Habits That Benefit Skin
Hydration: Encourage them to drink plenty of water each day to keep their skin hydrated from the inside.
Balanced Diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, and whole foods to support skin health.
Sleep: Ensure they get enough rest, as proper sleep supports skin repair and overall wellness.
Hands Off!: Teach them not to touch their face throughout the day to reduce the transfer of oils and bacteria.
5. Make It Fun and Simple
Keep routines short and sweet. Pre-teens don’t need to spend more than a few minutes on skincare each day.
Consider allowing them to pick out their own skincare products, so they feel more invested in the routine.
Praise them for keeping up with the habit, as it reinforces a positive attitude toward self-care.
Add in a fun mask every once in a while for an added benefit and a “spa Night” We love this one.
Add in a cute head band that they can use to hold their hair back so their routine is fun and enjoyable.
Choosing the Right Products
Look for brands that specialize in gentle, natural formulations designed for sensitive skin. Brands like Evereden, Bliss, or Aveeno offer products for young, delicate skin. These brands focus on creating formulas free from harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes.
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