The Dos and Don’ts of Tween & Teen Skincare: A Parent’s Guide

WaterWipes® Original Baby WipesAs children grow into tweens and teens, so does their skin and for many parents, that means navigating a whole new world of skincare questions. From the first signs of oiliness or sensitivity to the start of hormonal changes, learning how to care for tween and teenage skin is about building healthy habits gradually. 

Why Skincare Matters for Tweens and Teens 

Skincare for teens and tweens isn’t about complicated routines or heavy treatments. It's about prevention, protection, and developing good habits early. 

From around age nine or ten, hormonal changes can begin to impact skin. You may notice increased oiliness, occasional breakouts, or dryness in certain areas [1]. A gentle skincare routine helps support the skin barrier through these changes without overwhelming it. 

When done right, teenage skincare routines can also promote body confidence and independence, which are both important during this time of change. Here are some of our recommended skincare dos. 

The Skincare DOs 

Start simple. For tweens and teens, a basic routine is best. A gentle cleanse, lightweight moisturiser, and daily sunscreen is more than enough [1]. 

Choose products made for young skin. It’s important to use fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and non-comedogenic products. Natural, minimal ingredient lists help reduce the risk of irritation [4]. 

Support their routine with kind tools. Wipes like WaterWipes® Original Baby Wipes can be a helpful addition, especially after sports, school or travel when a rinse-off cleanse isn’t practical. Made with 99.9% water and a drop of fruit extract, they’re suitable even for sensitive or delicate skin. 

Encourage consistency over perfection. The goal isn’t flawless skin, it’s helping them form a habit. A simple night skincare routine for teenage girls, for example, can be as easy as a quick wash followed by cleansing and moisturising. 

Be involved in a gentle way as a parent. Offer guidance when choosing products but avoid taking over their routine. Empower them with education and support their independence. 

The Skincare DON’Ts 

Don’t use harsh adult skincare products. Teen skin is not the same as adult skin, so avoid strong exfoliants or acne treatments unless recommended by a healthcare professional [1][2]. 

Don’t skip SPF. Sun protection is important from an early age and even a daily moisturiser with SPF can make a long-term difference. 

Don’t introduce too many products at once. Overloading young skin with toners, scrubs, or actives can cause irritation and damage the skin barrier [1]. 

Don’t follow skincare trends blindly. Social media often promotes products that aren’t suitable for young skin in sponsored ads. It’s better to focus on gentle, natural options. 

Don’t dismiss their skin concerns. If your child is self-conscious about spots or dry patches, it’s important to validate their feelings and offer support. Even a simple routine can help them feel more in control and grow in confidence. 

What Should a Natural Skincare Routine for Tweens Look Like? 

A good skincare routine for ten-year-olds or tweens doesn’t need to be fancy. Here’s a simple, age appropriate breakdown. 

Between ages nine and ten, a gentle cleanse once per day, either in the morning or evening is typically sufficeint. WaterWipes® can be used to freshen up after school or sports, and moisturiser can be applied only if the skin feels dry. 

Skincare Routine for tweens Aged 11 – 12 year olds: 

From ages eleven to twelve, you may want to introduce a second cleanse if oiliness begins. This is also a good age to begin using SPF daily. Products should still be lightweight and plant-based where possible. 

Skincare Routine for tweens Aged 13+: 

At age thirteen and above, hormonal changes may become more noticeable. Continue with gentle cleansing, moisturising, and SPF. If more persistent skin concerns appear, it may be worth speaking with a GP for further guidance [2]. 

What works for one child might not work for another, and that’s okay. It’s important to try different approaches while steering toward products designed for sensitive, developing skin. 

Why Use WaterWipes on Tween & Teen Skin? 

WaterWipes® Original Baby Wipes are made with 99.9% water and a drop of fruit extract. They contain no added fragrance, alcohol, or harsh ingredients, making them a safe, gentle choice for tweens and teens. 

They can be used after PE or school sports, during travel or overnight stays, or as part of a nighttime routine before going to bed. WaterWipes help support clean, fresh skin without stripping the skin barrier or introducing unnecessary ingredients. Helping your child care for their skin isn’t about perfection. It’s about building simple, gentle habits that give them comfort, confidence, and a sense of independence as they grow.