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Just like brushing your teeth, a thorough skincare routine is learned, but at what exact age should we start thinking about introducing suitable home care products?
Often, those with healthy skin are the ones who appreciate it the least. Youthful skin is loaded with supportive collagen and elastin fibers, the proteins that give skin its strength and flexibility. It is also rich with hyaluronic acid, a substance that fills the spaces between the cells and keeps the skin hydrated. Sebum or oil production begins during puberty. This is when facial care products should ideally be introduced for adolescents who start to see changes in their skin, such as a dull appearance, oily skin, breakouts, or clogged pores.
It’s evident that all skin types, no matter the age, should be using a basic skincare routine to maintain skin health and prevent premature ageing.
Start Young
Talk to the experts, and they will tell you it is never too early to start following a routine that will ensure you have healthy skin well into your adult and senior years. Never think you are too young during your teens to start caring for your skin. Early steps lay the foundation for the years to come. Of course, nobody is supporting the use of products with AHA and retinoids by young girls – there are other ways for young girls to get used to a proper regimen.
Skincare specialists, dermatologists and beauticians agree that the younger one starts, the better the chances are that you will stick to a routine to support great skin for life. Some say girls should create a basic routine even from age 12, while others feel a year or two later is okay.
It is, however, essential to start in your teens: in your mid-20’s signs of ageing will creep up on you as the skin starts developing the first fine lines way before you’re 30 – if you do not take steps early on. This is even more correct for the active young lady that spends quite a bit of time outdoors – in the sun, on the beach, playing sports. And while it is true that the teenager may not follow her mother’s routine, the fact remains that being introduced to skincare at a young age will pay dividends into your 20’s, your 30’s, 40’s and later on.
Moisturise
The most basic function of a moisturiser is to hydrate and soften the skin and is undoubtedly a skincare step you must not miss. Essentially, moisturisers assist in preventing water loss through the outer layers of skin. They can also complement the naturally found protective oils and other building blocks within the skin, such as ceramides. This is one product that doctors recommend using year-round, for all skin types. Skin naturally loses the ability to retain moisture as we age, and daily activities, such as washing, can strip natural moist from the surface. Everyone needs moisture, but the texture of your moisturiser will differ depending on your skin type. Ask for help from a local drugstore assistant or dermatologist to choose the one that suits you the most.
Prevent
Our skin – also young skin – is always exposed to the harmful effects of toxins, sun damage and other free radicals in the atmosphere. We can’t forget the other factors such as stress, not getting enough sleep and too much time spent in front of the computer/mobile screen. Yes, it’s all fun and games to go through the latest bingo sites and spend some time on social media, but don’t underestimate the power of a good rest. As for products that are fighting pollution, there are many on the market that help to prevent possible damages. What is important is to understand your skin type before you buy certain products.
Also, a parent should have their teenager talk to a dermatologist or other skincare professional before using any specific products. But there is nothing wrong with starting to use skincare products with say, Vitamin C and B which are known to be great at reducing the effects of impurities in the atmosphere – as well as sun damage.
Starting young is essential for ongoing beautiful skin, and even as a parent, you’ll do your child a great favour by encouraging him/her to begin well before the end of the teenage years. Find out what skin type your child has and talk to a professional about recommended products, especially those that are no recommended to use too early. However, great skincare starts with a good cleanser, moisturiser and sunblock. Nobody is ever too young for these.
