Hello everyone! I’m Olivia, beauty therapist and assistant manager at Bramhope Beauty Clinic Hipperholme. Today, I want to talk about a topic that’s been buzzing on everyone’s lips—teen skincare. With the rise of TikTok and other social media platforms, there’s a whirlwind of advice and products being thrown at teens. But how much of it is really beneficial, and how much is just hype? Let’s dive in!
The Problem with TikTok Fads
The beauty market is more saturated than ever. Every day, there’s a new product or trend going viral on TikTok, and while it’s great to see such enthusiasm about skincare, it can also be overwhelming—especially for teens who are just starting to explore skincare. TikTok has made it incredibly easy for brands to launch products into the spotlight. Overnight, a single video can make a product go viral. But just because a product is popular doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. Many of these trending products are targeted at teens, who may not even need them.
Some of the most popular ingredients in viral products include:
• Retinoids
Great for anti-ageing, but often too strong for young skin.
• Acids (like AHAs and BHAs)
Effective for exfoliation but can irritate sensitive teenage skin if overused.
• Activated Charcoal
Marketed for detoxifying skin but can be too drying for some skin types.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming it can be for teens and their parents to navigate the skincare aisle. Many of these products are designed for adult skin concerns that teens simply don’t have, such as fine lines and deep-set wrinkles. Using inappropriate products can lead to over-exfoliation, irritation, and even acne.
It’s crucial to approach teen skincare with a focus on simplicity and safety. Here are some key steps to help introduce them to skincare effectively:
1. Start Simple.
When starting a skincare routine, less is more. A basic routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen is often enough to keep teen skin healthy and glowing.
Cleanser: Look for gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils.
Moisturiser: A lightweight, oil-free moisturiser can help maintain hydration without clogging pores.
Sunscreen: Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen is vital for protecting young skin from harmful UV rays.
2. Focus on Ingredients That Matter.
Instead of following every TikTok trend, focus on ingredients that are beneficial for teenage skin.
Salicylic Acid: Great for combating acne without being overly harsh.
Niacinamide: Helps to reduce inflammation and redness, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
Hyaluronic Acid: Provides hydration without greasiness, excellent for all skin types.
3. Introduce Products Slowly.
When introducing new products, do so gradually. This allows the skin to adapt and makes it easier to identify any potential reactions. Start with one product at a time and wait a few weeks before adding anything new.
4. Educate About Skin Health.
Teach your teen the importance of skincare education. Explain why certain ingredients work and how they affect the skin. Encourage them to do their research and understand their own skin type.
Exploring Professional Options:
While a simple skincare routine is a great starting point, sometimes professional-grade products can offer additional benefits, especially for specific concerns. At Bramhope Beauty Clinic, we recommend trusted brands like Jan Marini for their effective, science-backed formulations.
Known for its innovative formulations, Jan Marini products can help address specific skin concerns with professional results. Their Bioglycolic Face Cleanser is a gentle glycolic acid cleanser that exfoliates and cleanses without over-drying.
Navigating the world of skincare can be daunting, especially for teens. While TikTok trends can be tempting, it’s important to focus on a personalised skincare routine that meets your teen’s unique needs. Starting simple, educating about the right ingredients, and considering professional options from brands like Jan Marini can help ensure healthy, happy skin.
At Bramhope Beauty Clinic, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. If you’re unsure about the right products for your teen, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to help tailor a skincare routine that will set your teen on the path to beautiful skin.
Thank you for reading, and remember—your skin is as unique as you are, so treat it with the care and attention it deserves!