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Does my teen need a skincare routine?

Most teens benefit from a simple three-step routine — gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and daily sunscreen — rather than an elaborate multi-product regimen.

This basic routine helps manage normal oil and acne changes of puberty and protects skin long-term, without needing trendy or harsh products.

Strength of evidence

Good

Recommendations come from pediatric and dermatology guideline bodies (Canadian Dermatology Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital) rather than randomized trials specifically testing 'routines,' but they reflect broad clinical consensus.

What the evidence says

Yes, a basic skincare routine is a good idea for most teens, but it doesn't need to be complicated. Puberty causes hormone changes that make skin produce more oil (called sebum), which can clog pores and lead to acne, small bumps caused by blocked pores.

Dermatology groups agree that a simple routine works best: a gentle cleanser used twice a day, a lightweight moisturizer, and sunscreen every day. The Canadian Dermatology Association notes acne affects about 90 percent of adolescents, so this isn't unusual, and simple, non-clogging products are enough for most teens.

Expensive or trendy products with strong ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids aren't necessary for most teens and can sometimes irritate young skin. If a teen has acne that bothers them, is painful, or isn't improving with basic care, a pharmacist or doctor can suggest over-the-counter treatments, and a dermatologist can help if it's severe or affecting their self-esteem.

The bottom line: keep it simple. Washing twice daily, moisturizing, and daily sun protection covers what most teens need. Extra steps aren't harmful just because a routine is short — more products don't mean better skin.

If acne is severe, painful, scarring, or affecting your teen's mood or confidence, it's worth checking in with a doctor rather than relying on skincare products alone.

Sources

✓Reviewed by CH, MD, FRCPC

Reviewed by a specialist physician certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, who has read this answer against the sources listed above and confirmed it reflects them. That is not medical advice about your child. How we review

Answer checked August 5, 2026

Educational information only. Not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and no doctor-patient relationship is created by using this. Founded Parent has not examined your child and does not know their history, so this may not apply to you. In an emergency, call your local emergency number. What Founded Parent cannot do

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