For teens, looking for the right skincare product suitable for their skin might be tough, but with the right guidance, you can help your teen establish a healthy routine. In this buying guide, we’ve collaborated with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelie Chua to provide expert tips on choosing the best skincare products for various skin types, including oily, acne-prone, sensitive, and dry skin.
Whether your teen is dealing with breakouts or dryness, our guide offers tailored advice to address these concerns effectively. We also feature top product recommendations available on Lazada and Shopee, making it easier to find the right solutions for your teen’s skincare needs.
Quick List - Top Skincare Products for Teens
COSRX
A Balanced Salicylic Acid Cleanser That Clears Acne and Soothes Skin
Dr. Angelie Chua is a dedicated Thomasian physician specializing in dermatology, with board certification from the Philippine Dermatological Society. She completed her residency at UST Hospital and is currently pursuing a fellowship in Trichology (hair disorders). Passionate about beauty, health, history, music, and travel, she fosters continuous learning and expertise in diverse fields. Dr. Chua is committed to providing exceptional care and staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements for the benefit of her patients.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
A simple skincare routine is best for teens. The essentials—facial wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen—are key to maintaining healthy skin and addressing common teenage skin concerns.
For teenagers, complex skincare routines are not needed and can cause more harm than good. To build a strong foundation for skincare, focus on these three essential products:
These basics are the cornerstone of a healthy skincare routine, ensuring that your skin stays clean, hydrated, and protected every day.
A basic skincare routine should include all threeproducts mentioned above. This applies to both males and females. Just be sure to use the products that work best for your skin type.
It can be confusing to know which products will work for one's skin concern because skincare should be individualized. Hence, a consult with a board-certified dermatologist is still advisable.
If you have specific skin concerns like persistent acne, sensitivity, or other conditions, it's especially important to consult a dermatologist. A professional can offer personalized guidance, ensuring that your skincare routine is tailored to your unique needs and is both effective and safe. This helps avoid the pitfalls of using unsuitable products and ensures your skin gets the right care.
Choosing the right skincare products for teenagers can be challenging with so many options available. This guide will help you understand what to look for based on different skin types, ensuring your teen can build a simple yet effective skincare routine that addresses their unique needs.
Teenagers with oily and acne-prone skin need products that help control excess oil and prevent breakouts. By choosing the right ingredients and avoiding pore-clogging substances, you can keep your skin clear and balanced.
Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are two of the most recommended ingredients for those with oily and acne-prone skin. These keep oil at bay and prevent the formation of acne.
For oily and acne-prone skin, it’s crucial to use a facial wash that effectively cleanses the skin without over-drying it. Look for a gentle, foaming cleanser that includes salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, but remember to start with low concentrations first.
Salicylic acid (0.5-2%) helps exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and prevent new breakouts by reducing excess oil. Meanwhile, benzoyl peroxide (2.5-5%) targets acne-causing bacteria while also reducing inflammation.
If your acne is severe or persistent, consider consulting a dermatologist to determine the best type of cleanser for your skin. Sometimes, a combination of topical treatments and the right facial wash can make a significant difference in managing acne.
Even oily skin needs moisture. The right moisturizer helps balance oil levels without clogging pores, which is crucial for managing acne-prone skin.
When choosing a moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin, opt for a lightweight, gel-based formula. These types of moisturizers are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t block your pores.
Look for key ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin without adding excess oil, keeping it plump and moisturized. Glycerin helps attract moisture to the skin, maintaining hydration and balance, while niacinamide reduces inflammation, controls oil production, and improves skin texture. Tea tree oil offers antibacterial properties that help manage and prevent acne breakouts.
To prevent breakouts, avoid heavy, pore-clogging ingredients such as coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter, petrolatum, and mineral oil. Additionally, steer clear of moisturizers with fragrances and alcohol, as these can irritate the skin and lead to further inflammation.
A gel-based sunscreen with a matte finish is ideal, as it protects the skin without making it greasy.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for gel-based sunscreens that provide a matte finish, which helps control shine and prevent the greasy feel that many sunscreens can leave behind. Ingredients like zinc oxide are beneficial as they offer sun protection while helping to absorb excess oil.
Make sunscreen application a daily habit to prevent acne scars from darkening and to protect your skin from premature aging. Reapply every two hours if you’re spending time outdoors to maintain optimal protection.
An acne cream or a pimple patch offers a targeted approach that can help dry or heal pimples.
As an additional treatment, consider getting an acne cream/gel or a pimple patch. Acne creams containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help reduce redness, fight bacteria, and dry out blemishes quickly.
Alternatively, pimple patches infused with ingredients like hydrocolloid absorb excess fluid from the pimple, reduce inflammation, and protect the area from further irritation.
Keep in mind that these spot treatments are not a complete acne solution. You need a comprehensive skincare routine that can target your problems. For persistent acne, best to consult a board-certified dermatologist.
Sensitive skin requires extra care, as it’s prone to irritation and redness. Selecting gentle, fragrance-free products that calm and protect the skin can help maintain a healthy and comfortable complexion.
Sensitive skin needs extra care, starting with the right facial wash. Choose a mild, creamy cleanser that is fragrance-free and specifically designed for sensitive skin. These types of cleansers usually don’t contain alcohol, sulfates, or other harsh chemicals that disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, leading to irritation.
Instead, look for ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile that are known for their soothing properties, helping to calm the skin and reduce redness.
Sensitive skin requires gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that won’t disrupt the skin’s natural barrier.
Keep in mind that just because some of the products in your skincare routine contain moisturizing ingredients, you cannot skip moisturizer!
A good moisturizer for sensitive skin should focus on hydration while protecting the skin barrier.
Moisturizing is a critical step in caring for sensitive skin. Opt for a fragrance-free moisturizer that contains soothing and barrier-strengthening ingredients like ceramides and oatmeal.
Ceramides help to restore the skin’s protective barrier, while oatmeal provides a calming effect, reducing the likelihood of irritation and inflammation. Products labeled as hypoallergenic are often safer choices for sensitive skin, as they are formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
Mineral sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical sunscreens.
Mineral sunscreens (also known as physical sunscreens) which contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are gentler on the skin and provide broad-spectrum protection without causing redness or breakouts.
Ensure that the sunscreen is free from alcohol, fragrances, and other potential irritants, as these can exacerbate sensitivity. A broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher is recommended to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Sensitive skin is often prone to sunburn, so be diligent about reapplying sunscreen every two hours, especially when spending extended time outdoors. This helps maintain protection and prevents further irritation from sun exposure.
Dry skin needs intensive hydration to stay soft and smooth. By focusing on moisture-rich products that restore and lock in hydration, you can prevent dryness and keep your skin feeling nourished.
The best cleanser for dry skin should cleanse without stripping away the skin’s natural oils.
Dry skin requires a facial wash that cleanses effectively without stripping away natural moisture. Choose a creamy, hydrating facial wash that contains ingredients like glycerin and ceramides, which help to retain moisture in the skin.
Avoid foaming cleansers that can dry out the skin further, leading to tightness and discomfort. Instead, opt for non-foaming, cream-based cleansers that gently remove dirt and impurities while keeping the skin hydrated.
Dry skin benefits most from rich, cream-based moisturizers. This type of formula helps hydrate and lock-in moisture to the skin.
A rich, cream-based moisturizer is essential for dry skin to restore hydration and repair the skin’s barrier. Look for ingredients like shea butter, which provides deep nourishment, and hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin.
Ceramides are also important as they help to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss. These ingredients work together to keep the skin soft, smooth, and well-hydrated throughout the day.
Apply your moisturizer immediately after cleansing, while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps to seal in moisture and maximize the hydrating effects of the product.
Sunscreen with added moisturizing properties can help protect dry skin from UV rays while keeping it hydrated.
Dry skin can benefit from sunscreens that also offer moisturizing benefits. Choose a cream-based sunscreen that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These sunscreens provide an extra layer of moisture while protecting the skin from harmful UV rays.
It’s important to select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause further dryness and irritation.
Hyaluronic acid serums or hydrating toners can provide essential moisture without the heaviness of thick creams.
If thick moisturizers cause makeup to cake, consider incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum or a hydrating toner into your routine. These lightweight alternatives can be applied after washing the face to deliver deep hydration without the greasy feel.
Hyaluronic acid serums draw moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated, while hydrating toners help lock in moisture and prepare the skin for the day ahead, all without compromising makeup application.
Teenage skin can be sensitive, so it’s important to avoid products containing parabens, sulfates, alcohols, and artificial fragrances, which can cause irritation.
Whatever your skin type is, dermatologists recommend to steer clear of potential irritants to ensure that the product is safe for the skin and won’t cause any adverse reactions.
Some key ingredients to avoid include parabens, which are commonly used as preservatives in skincare products, such as methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Sulfates, like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are often found in cleansers and shampoos for their foaming properties but can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Alcohols such as ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and denatured alcohol can also dry out the skin, causing irritation, especially for sensitive or dry skin types. Additionally, artificial fragrances, often labeled as “fragrance” or “parfum,” can trigger allergic reactions or cause irritation.
Trusted brands are more likely to use high-quality, tested ingredients that are safe and effective for teenage skin.
When selecting skincare products for your teen, it’s best to choose those from reputable brands known for their commitment to safety and quality. Brands like Cetaphil, Neutrogena, and CeraVe are well-regarded for their gentle formulations that effectively address common skin concerns like acne and dryness.
These brands are more likely to invest in research and testing, ensuring their products are gentle on young skin while effectively addressing common concerns like acne and dryness. Trusted brands also provide clear instructions, making it easier for your teen to establish and maintain a consistent skincare routine
Of course, the best course of action is still consulting a dermatologist. However, if you're pressed for time or need a product to use, considering a trusted brand can be a good choice. Just remember to get a product that's targeted for the specific skin type and concern.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Type | Best for | Key Ingredients | Fragrance-free | Alcohol-free | Paraben-free | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser | ![]() | Gentle Enough for Every Face, Every Day | Cleanser | Sensitive Skin、Dry Skin | Water, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol | 250 mL | ||||
2 | COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser | ![]() | A Balanced Salicylic Acid Cleanser That Clears Acne and Soothes Skin | Cleanser | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil | 150 mL | ||||
3 | Belo AcnePro Pimple Control System Pack | ![]() | Complete Solution for Clearer, Pimple-Free Skin | Cleanser | Acne-Prone Skin | Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Panthenol | 60 mL | ||||
4 | Neutrogena Deep Clean Acne Foaming Cleanser | ![]() | Deep Pore Cleansing With Gentle Acne Care | Cleanser | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | Salicylic Acid, Glycerin | 100 g | ||||
5 | Garnier Bright Complete Anti-Acne Booster Serum | ![]() | Brightening and Anti-Acne Care in One | Serum | Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin | Salicylic Acid, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, AHA | 15 mL | ||||
6 | Breylee Facial Cleanser Acne Treatment | ![]() | Oil Control and Acne Treatment with Tea Tree | Cleanser | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Extract | 100 g | ||||
7 | Nature Republic Soothing & Moisture Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel | ![]() | Multi-Use Soothing Gel for Face and Body | Moisturizer | All Skin Types | Aloe Vera, Glycerin | 300 mL | ||||
8 | Luxe Organix Cica Rescue Cleanser | ![]() | When Skin’s Acting Up, This Wash Shows Up | Cleanser | Sensitive Skin | Centella Asiatica, Madecassoside | 150 g | ||||
9 | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica BHA Foam | ![]() | Soothing Centella-Infused Foam for Gentle Exfoliation | Cleanser | Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | Centella Asiatica, BHA | 125 mL | ||||
10 | Human Nature Balancing Face Toner | ![]() | Natural Toner for Oil Control and Freshness | Toner | Oily Skin, Combination Skin | Sugarcane Alcohol, Elemi, Tomato Extract | 100 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users often highlight the product’s mildness and non-irritating feel, making it suitable for daily use even on sensitive skin. Many appreciate how it leaves the skin feeling clean yet hydrated without any tightness. The ease of use, especially its ability to cleanse effectively with or without rinsing, is also frequently noted.
Product Type | Cleanser |
---|---|
Best for | Sensitive Skin、Dry Skin |
Key Ingredients | Water, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 250 mL |
Product Type | Cleanser |
---|---|
Best for | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Users say this set is convenient and easy to follow, with visible improvements in acne and skin texture after a week or two. Many appreciate that the products are lightweight and absorb quickly, making them suitable even for oily skin. Some users mention that the toner can sting on open pimples, and a few wish the products were sold separately for easier repurchasing. Overall, most find it effective for mild to moderate acne and value the affordability of the complete set.
Product Type | Cleanser |
---|---|
Best for | Acne-Prone Skin |
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Panthenol |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 60 mL |
Users find this cleanser effective in controlling breakouts and reducing excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Many appreciate its gentle foam that doesn’t cause dryness or irritation. Some suggest it works best with consistent use and recommend avoiding eye contact.
Product Type | Cleanser |
---|---|
Best for | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Glycerin |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 100 g |
Users notice brighter, clearer skin after a few weeks, with many reporting reduced pimples and faded acne marks. The lightweight texture is often highlighted as a plus, especially for humid weather. Some users with sensitive skin mention mild stinging on first application, and a few find the scent a bit strong. Overall, it is well-liked for its dual action on both acne and dark spots, making it a popular choice for those with post-acne marks.
Product Type | Serum |
---|---|
Best for | Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin |
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, AHA |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 15 mL |
Many users share that this cleanser effectively reduces oiliness and breakouts without leaving the skin feeling tight. The tea tree scent is described as refreshing, though a few find it a bit strong. Some mention that the packaging could be improved, but overall, it is considered a good value for money, especially for those with oily or combination skin types.
Product Type | Cleanser |
---|---|
Best for | Oily Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Extract |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 100 g |
Reviews mention:
This gel is a favorite among users for its versatility, being used as a moisturizer, after-sun care, and even as a hair treatment. Many love its cooling effect and how quickly it absorbs without leaving a sticky residue. Some wish it came with a pump for easier dispensing, but most agree it is a must-have, especially during hot weather or after sun exposure. It is also recommended for calming irritated or inflamed skin.
Product Type | Moisturizer |
---|---|
Best for | All Skin Types |
Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera, Glycerin |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 300 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Many users find it hydrating and soothing, saying it lathers well and feels gentle even on oily or acne-prone skin. On the other hand, some with dry or reactive skin felt it was a bit drying or tight after use, with a few experiencing redness.
Product Type | Cleanser |
---|---|
Best for | Sensitive Skin |
Key Ingredients | Centella Asiatica, Madecassoside |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 150 g |
Product Type | Cleanser |
---|---|
Best for | Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
Key Ingredients | Centella Asiatica, BHA |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 125 mL |
Reviews mention:
Many users love the natural, non-irritating formula and the refreshing feeling it gives after cleansing. It is often praised for helping control oil and reduce the appearance of pores, especially for those with combination or oily skin. Some users wish the bottle was bigger for daily use, but most agree it is affordable and effective, with a pleasant herbal scent that is not overpowering.
Product Type | Toner |
---|---|
Best for | Oily Skin, Combination Skin |
Key Ingredients | Sugarcane Alcohol, Elemi, Tomato Extract |
Fragrance-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Paraben-free | |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Make smarter choices with more information. Here are some of Dr. Angelie's answers to some of the most asked questions on the internet. Keep on reading to learn more!
There are tons! First and foremost, since the teenage years are a period of hormonal imbalances and acne breakouts, teenagers have a tendency to wash and exfoliate their skin excessively. Even though these practices give a squeaky clean feeling, they may actually strip off the skin's natural oils and lead to dryness and irritation.
Second, a lot of teenagers are not using moisturizers or sunscreen due to the sticky feeling that may be felt.
Another common mistake that a lot of teenagers are guilty of is popping pimples. It may seem harmless but popping pimples can cause scarring and aggravate acne.
There is no hard and fast rule as to what age it is best to start skin care products. However, it is recommended to start using skin care products at around 12 years old or when puberty hits.
At this time, the hormonal levels and environmental milieu of the skin change, hence leading to possible acne breakouts. Therefore, skincare products may be started to combat pesky pimples!
For teenagers, complex skincare routines are not needed and can cause more harm than good. Some products formulated for adult skin can be too harsh for teen skin. Examples include:
Planning to revamp your usual skincare regimen? Here are links to the best skincare tools online, which can help your skin look brighter than before.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Cetaphil|Gentle Skin Cleanser
No. 2: COSRX|Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
No. 3: Belo|AcnePro Pimple Control System Pack
No. 4: Neutrogena |Deep Clean Acne Foaming Cleanser
No. 5: Garnier|Bright Complete Anti-Acne Booster Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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