Looking for the best skincare routine for teenage skin? This guide covers everything teens need to build a simple, effective routine, without harsh ingredients.
Why are we talking about this?
Skincare is having a major moment, especially on TikTok. But a lot of what’s trending isn’t actually designed with teenage skin in mind. Strong actives like retinol and high percentages of AHAs might be okay for mature skin, but for teens, they’re often way too harsh.
Teenage skin is going through enough already. Hormones are raging, oil production is on the rise, and breakouts are common. The goal should be balance and support, not stripping the skin or overcomplicating things. We created Saya because our founder struggled with exactly this - skin that needed help, not harsh chemicals.
So we sat down with teen skincare expert Michelle Geyer from SKINTween and Saya McDermott to break it all down. Here’s what they had to say (and why we think their advice should be the new skincare bible for teens).
Why is teenage skin so sensitive?
Michelle explains, "When a child hits their teens they begin experiencing a lot of hormonal changes that can have a huge impact on how their skin behaves. This surge in hormones can aggravate teenage skin by increasing oil production, which often comes with breakouts. Skin can also become more sensitive and reactive."
Genetics play a part too. Some teens might see more oiliness or breakouts than others, which is totally normal.
The problem with harsh ingredients
Let’s talk ingredients. "Artificial fragrances and preservatives can easily lead to allergic reactions, especially in teen skin," says Michelle. "Parfum or fragrance is the number one ingredient dermatologists recommend we stay away from."
Preservatives like parabens are also a no-go. Michelle notes these can contribute to hormone disruption - something teens already have plenty of without adding fuel to the fire.
“The cleansing gel was one of the fundamental products that really saved my skin.” – Saya McDermott
Why natural and gentle skincare is better
"Gentle, fragrance-free products are really all young skin needs," says Michelle. "If you begin using harsh, oil-dissolving cleansers and unnecessary active ingredients before they’re needed, you’re basically stripping oil that isn’t there and treating concerns that don’t exist."
Michelle recommends looking for cleansers without SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), avoiding soap, and instead opting for products with natural surfactants and soothing ingredients. "I love Saya’s Cleansing Gel as it contains naturally derived Salicylic Acid to help manage breakouts, along with Aloe and Chamomile to calm inflamed skin."
And moisturiser? Still essential. Even if skin is oily. "Saya’s Balance Moisturiser is perfect. It contains lightweight oils like Jojoba, Aloe and Hyaluronic Acid for hydration that doesn’t add to excess oil."
“Start simple and don’t overwhelm teens. A two-step routine can be enough.” – Saya McDermott
Common Skincare Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
We asked Michelle what she sees most often:
- Over-stripping the skin: "This can actually cause more oil production as the skin tries to rebalance."
- Skipping moisturiser: "All skin types need hydration, even oily skin."
- Not patch testing: "Teens are shopping in stores designed for adults, often trying products without knowing how their skin will react."
- Not cleansing at night: "Cleansing isn’t just for makeup wearers. If you’ve applied SPF or have oily skin, this step is key."
Michelle also touched on pimple popping. "We’ve all done it, but if you must, do it safely - clean hands, clean skin, and use cotton tips to avoid spreading bacteria."
The long-term power of starting simple
Michelle believes skincare should be as routine as brushing your teeth. "Establishing good habits early can have a huge impact on long-term skin health. SPF in particular is a non-negotiable."
But she also emphasises that skincare shouldn't be forced. "Start simple and don’t overwhelm teens. A two-step routine can be enough."
“Saya is founded on simplicity and sustainability, proving that effective skincare doesn’t require complexity or harsh actives.” – Saya McDermott
Skincare as self-care, not punishment
Michelle summed it up perfectly: "If we rephrase skincare to ‘skin health’ it can change how teens view it. Our skin is our body’s first line of defence - it deserves care."
Acne doesn’t mean dirty skin. It doesn’t mean something’s wrong. And if a teen isn’t bothered by a breakout, that’s okay too. But if it’s impacting their confidence, a trip to the dermatologist might be the best next step.
Where Saya comes in
Our philosophy has always been less is more, especially when skin is still finding its rhythm. That’s why The Basics - made up of the Cleansing Gel and Balance Moisture - is ideal for young skin. No nasties, no heaviness, just clean, gentle support that works.
Our formulas are natural, COSMOS-certified, and filled with ingredients that help calm and support the skin - not confuse it.
“At the end of the day, teen skin doesn't need to be perfect – it just needs to be cared for. My biggest advice? Keep it simple, be kind to your skin, and tune out the noise.” – Saya McDermott
Best Face Products for Teenage Skin: Our Recommendations
Morning and Night Routine:
Cleansing Gel: Removes dirt and excess oil.
Balance Moisture: Keeps the skin hydrated.
SPF (AM only - we love mineral formulas like Sun And Daughter)
Avoid:
- Products with fragrance or parfum
- Retinol or high-strength AHAs
- Harsh soaps or drying foaming cleansers
Top Ingredients for Teenage Skincare
Opt for products containing:
- Salicylic Acid: Helps unclog pores and reduce acne.
- Niacinamide: Calms inflammation and balances oil production.
- Aloe Vera & Chamomile: Soothes and hydrates the skin.
- Jojoba Oil: Mimics the skin's natural oils, providing lightweight hydration.
Learn more about Australian Natural Botanicals here.
"At the end of the day, teen skin doesn't need to be perfect - it just needs to be cared for. My biggest advice? Keep it simple, be kind to your skin, and tune out the noise. The habits you build now will support your skin for life. Don’t get caught up in trends or feel pressured to use what everyone else is using. Gentle care is powerful care."
Skincare for teens shouldn’t be complicated. It should be supportive, simple, and actually feel good to use. Whether you’re a teen just starting out or a parent helping them navigate the beauty aisle, remember - you don’t need the strongest stuff on the shelf, you just need the right stuff.
And we’re here to help with that.
Explore our Saya Skincare & The Basics today.
Thank you so much to Michelle Geyer for generously sharing her time, knowledge and care. If you’d like to learn more about skincare for teens and tweens, head to skintween.com or follow Michelle over at @michellegeyerbeauty and @skintween on Instagram.