the when and why of starting a skincare routine
Adolescence.
The period of time in which a tween develops into a young adult.
(also the period of time that a parent may wonder if their child has been possessed by a terrifying monster with multiple personalities all lacking emotional regulation)
This is the time I generally recommend the introduction of a skincare routine.
In terms of our skin, it all starts in our brain...
during adolescence the hypothalamus releases gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), this stimulates our pituitary gland to release follicule stimulating hormone and lutenizing hormone (FSH and LH). These hormones are then released from the brain and into the body to target organs, these organs then provide an influx of estrogen, progesterone and androgen hormones such as testosterone.
Cue the oil! (sebum)
Sebum is not the bad guy, it actually plays a major role in our skin health helping to waterproof and protect our skin, however, hormone fluctuations during adolescence can cause excess sebum to be secreted leading to congestion, breakouts and acne.
Why cleanse?
Apart from the obvious reason of cleaning dirt and pollutants from the skin, bacteria love to feed on sebum, cleansing removes excess oil and thus bacteria.
Why exfoliate?
Our skin undergoes a process of cell renewal naturally, however sebum can act like a glue, preventing dead skin cells from sloughing off, gentle exfoliation will help to remove these cells from skin and prevent congestion.
Why moisturise? Hydrating the top layers of the skin can prevent water loss, our skin contains enzymes that help the cell renewal process, these need water in order to function, dehydrated skin is poor functioning skin.
Tween skin should be treated gently, but effectively.
See my current faves from Medik8 for Charlee's skin below,
With love,
x L
Charlee & Hally
gentleCleanse $39
A rosemary-infused refreshing foaming cleanser that effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin’s natural, essential moisture; leaving even the most sensitive skin feeling fresh and glowing.
Pore Refining Scrub $59
Gently sloughs-off and polishes away dead skin cells, leaving the skin smooth and soft. Incorporating L-Mandelic Acid, a gentle form of AHA that minimises irritation and is slightly lipid soluble, able to penetrate the pores and deep clean leaving the skin feeling fresh and glowing and promoting the natural renewal of healthy skin cells.
beta Moisturise $75
An optimised combination of active ingredients to provide continuous hydration and anti-inflammatory properties whilst controlling shine and oil production. This daily moisturiser works with the skin’s natural mechanisms to maintain hydration levels whilst ensuring a mattifying effect, containing prebiotics and probiotics helping to eliminate blemish-causing bacteria. Cinnamon extract promotes a clear complexion, regulating sebum levels and boosting defences.
Medik8 is available in clinic or in our online store
Is your tween ready to start introducing their own skin care routine but not sure where to start?
Check out our Tweens & Teens mini facial from the 'Essentials', designed to gently balance skin and allow us to guide your tween through an optimum home care routine that will help keep their skin healthy and happy.