Helping Your Teen Tackle Their Skin Woes Safely

Johannesburg, December 2025 — For many teenagers, skin struggles are more than a passing phase. They shape confidence, social interactions, and how young people see themselves. Breakouts, inflammation and sensitivity are rising among South African teens, but so too is a concerning trend: young people are copying adult skincare routines filled with potent actives their skin is simply not built to handle. 

This phenomenon is heavily driven by social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube, where influencers, some very young themselves, share product reviews, "get ready with me" (GRWM) videos, and viral content that makes adult regimens seem essential. 

Biomedical scientist Dr. Judey says teens today face a “perfect storm” of pressure,  raising concerns about the potential dangers of this trend for several reasons. She indicates that early use of adult cosmetics may increase the risk of developing skin allergies later in life. Furthermore, these products can contain ingredients like endocrine disruptors that potentially interfere with normal hormone development in children.

“Teenagers are comparing themselves to curated, filtered skin online. They’re buying high-strength products meant for mature or damaged skin and this is leading to irritation, disrupted skin barriers, and in some cases long-term sensitivity,” she says.

What today’s teens are battling

Typical teen concerns such as blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne, are not new. But the way teens treat them has changed.

Many young people are now using the following:

• High-percentage retinol and exfoliating acids, which can thin or sensitise young skin.

• Layered routines with five to ten products, often mixing ingredients that should never be combined.

• Harsh scrubs and drying toners, which strip the skin barrier and worsen oil production.

• Products designed for anti-aging, which overwhelm teenage skin and trigger inflammation.

“Teenage skin is biologically different,” explains Dr. Judey. “It produces more oil, renews faster, and is still developing its protective barrier. Overloading it with aggressive actives disrupts these natural processes,” she says.

Safe, teen-friendly ingredients to look for:

Dr. Judey recommends that parents guide teens toward simple formulations made to support, and not shock young skin. Key ingredients she considers ideal for this age group include:

• Niacinamide — helps regulate oil and calm inflammation

• Zinc PCA — reduces bacteria and supports clearer skin

• Panthenol (Vitamin B5) — strengthens the barrier and soothes sensitivity

• Aloe vera extract — hydrates and reduces redness

• Mild fruit enzymes — gently exfoliate without harsh scrubbing

• Ceramides — restore the skin’s natural protective layer

• Non-comedogenic hydrators like glycerin and hyaluronic acid

“These ingredients work with the biology of teenage skin, not against it,” she adds.

Healthy skin habits that actually help

Dr. Judey says a good routine for teens should be three things: gentle, consistent and uncomplicated. Her guidance:

• Cleanse twice a day with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser.

• Moisturise daily with lightweight hydration

• Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) every day

• Avoid combining too many products or copying adult routines

• Never pick or squeeze pimples as this can lead to scarring, infection, and making the breakout worse.

• Prioritise sleep, hydration and stress management, especially during exams

A message for parents

“Parents often feel overwhelmed,” Dr. Judey says. “But the first step is to avoid trends and return to basics. The goal is to protect teenage skin, guide them toward safe practices, and ensure they don’t cause damage that follows them into adulthood.”

About Dr. Judey

Dr. Judey is a distinguished Biomedical Scientist with vast expertise in wound healing, regenerative medicine, and cell therapy. Her academic accolades include a Master’s degree in Genetics and Molecular Biology and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry. As the founder of Biomedical Emporium®, she has propelled advancements in skincare by formulating innovative products that support the skin's natural rejuvenation and repair processes.

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