Teen Skin: Understanding and Caring for Adolescent Skin

For Teens and Parents Alike

Navigating the teenage years comes with its challenges — and skin issues are often one of the biggest. From unexpected breakouts to oily skin and blackheads, these changes can impact both self-esteem and confidence. But understanding whyit happens — and what to do about it — can help both teens and parents take the right steps towards healthier, clearer skin.

During adolescence, hormonal shifts increase oil (sebum) production.

Why Does Teenage Skin Change?

During adolescence, hormonal shifts increase oil (sebum) production. This excess oil can combine with dead skin cells, leading to clogged pores, breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads. Stress, diet, and even certain skincare products can make things worse.

Does Diet Affect Teen Skin?

Absolutely. What you eat can show up on your skin — and during your teenage years, when hormones are already fluctuating, diet can either support or sabotage your skin health.

Foods high in sugar (like sweets, fizzy drinks, and processed snacks) can trigger insulin spikes, which may increase oil production and inflammation — both known to make acne worse. Dairy, especially skimmed milk, has also been linked to breakouts in some people, although this varies from person to person.

That doesn’t mean cutting out everything you enjoy — just being mindful. Simple swaps like drinking more water, eating more whole foods, and cutting back on sugary snacks can make a real difference.

Tip for teens: Try keeping a food and skin diary for a couple of weeks — you might spot patterns that help you make smarter choices without needing to overhaul your entire diet.

The Importance of a Simple Skincare Routine

Keeping it simple is key. Here’s a basic routine suitable for most teenage skin types:

• Gentle Cleansing – Wash your face twice a day with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser. This helps remove oil and dirt without stripping the skin.

• Hydration – Even oily skin needs moisture. Use an oil-free moisturiser to maintain balance and protect the skin barrier.

• Sun Protection – Daily SPF is essential to prevent sun damage and reduce the risk of dark marks or pigmentation from healing spots.

Avoid using harsh scrubs, toothpaste on pimples (yes, that’s still a thing!), or over-exfoliating — these can actually make things worse.

What Are Teen Facials – and Do They Help?

Teen facials are professional treatments designed to target the most common teenage skin concerns in a gentle, age-appropriate way.

A typical teen facial at Jayèn might include:

• Deep Cleansing – To remove congestion and built-up oils

• Gentle Exfoliation – To smooth skin and clear dead skin cells

• Steam & Extractions – To safely remove blackheads and whiteheads

• Hydration – To rebalance the skin with calming, non-comedogenic ingredients

• Expert Advice – Including tips on home care and product use

Many teens find that even just one facial can improve how their skin feels — and consistent sessions can prevent issues before they become bigger problems.

Supporting Your Teen’s Skin Journey

For Parents:

• Keep conversations around skin kind and open — never shame-based

• Book a professional skin consultation rather than guessing at products

• Be patient — clear skin doesn’t happen overnight

For Teens:

• Be consistent with your routine

• Ask questions — there’s no such thing as a silly one

• Don’t compare your skin to others online. Everyone’s skin is different, and filters lie.

Final Thoughts

Teen skin is unique — and it deserves the right kind of care. Whether you’re dealing with oily breakouts, blackheads, or just feeling confused about what products to use, support is out there.

At Jayèn Clinic, we offer targeted teen facials and personalised skincare advice to help young skin look and feel its best — no fads, no filters, just real skin support.