Once upon a time a teenage skincare regime consisted of a three-step routine of products, likely all of the same brand and most definitely bought from the supermarket with the weekly groceries.

Luckily, teens have become far more advanced with their skincare knowledge and willing to start good skin health habits young. And a slew of affordable brands mean you can choose great quality products without splashing a heap of cash.

As for the products to choose, here’s our recommendation for a simple skincare routine that great for teens starting their skincare journeys.

START WITH A GENTLE CLEANSE

Cleansers can get complicated but the reality is that your cleanser is only on the skin for 60 seconds then gets washed down the drain. Teens don’t need a cleanser that’s loaded with actives. Sticking with something gentle will help to keep the skin clean without stripping nourishment or wasting money.

FOLLOW WITH A HYDRATING ESSENCE

Gone are the days when you’d follow your cleanser with an alcoholic toner. We’ve moved away from drying ingredients and instead, it’s hydration that serves the skin best. Choosing a hydrating toner helps to keep your teens natural protective barrier intact and can help to fight off acne-causing inflammation.

USE A SPOT TREATMENT IF NECESSARY

For teens who are facing the occasional pimple, using a spot treatment is often more effective than acne-targeting serums, creams and toners. This is because they focus on the affected area and leave the rest of the skin to do its thing. Overusing harsh actives on young skin can strip the barrier and pave the path toward even more blemishes.

TREAT WITH A TARGETED MASK ONCE A WEEK

Every teen will have a different concern. Whether it’s dryness, early stages of sun damage, or most commonly, acne, you can choose a mask to use once weekly to target their concern. For acne, masks with glycolic and salicylic acids are great. For hydration, opt for hyaluronic acid, squalane and glycerine. And, for signs of sun damage, a gentle vitamin C and lactic acid combination can help to brighten without upsetting the complexion.

FINISH WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT MOISTURISER

Because teen skin tends to lean toward the oily side, a light or oil-free moisturiser is the best bet for keeping the complexion hydrated without risking blockages in the pore.

ALWAYS USE SPF

Starting good habits young is the best way to prevent future problems and sunscreen really is the cure all for not only signs of ageing, but skin cancers as well. There are plenty of great options to choose for that will feel lightweight on teen skin and unless they’re particularly dry, they can likely swap their morning moisturiser for SPF to simplify their routine.

My favourite range for teen skin would have to be Dermalogica Clear Start. It’s affordable and effective! Both my kids use it.