Saving Your Skin (And Your Wallet) From TikTok Trends
Teen skincare tips are everywhere, but what really works? With social media flooding teens and tweens with complicated routines and pricey products, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—and even damage your skin. Two expert dermatologists are here to cut through the noise and reveal the simple secrets to glowing, healthy skin that every teen can follow.
Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist from Scottsdale, Arizona, created a skincare line called Between (BTWN) just for teens and tweens after seeing so many young patients struggling. “I watched kids jump into 12-step routines that only left their skin irritated and unhappy,” she says. “They use harsh ingredients like retinol far too early, which causes breakouts and rashes.”
The good news? The best adolescent skincare routine is surprisingly easy. All you really need is three essentials: a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. That’s it. Cleansing should take just 30 to 60 seconds to wash away dirt and oil. If you only wash once a day, make it at night to clear off all the buildup from pollution and sweat.
The viral multi-step routines teens see on TikTok might look impressive, but they can do more harm than good. Teens often spend big money on expensive products without knowing if they’re right for their skin. Retinoids, for example, are powerful but should only be used when recommended, not as a daily habit for normal skin.
Sunscreen is the ultimate game-changer. Both doctors agree it’s the number one way to protect skin from aging and damage. But many miss key spots like behind the ears, neck, and eyelids. Don’t rely on makeup with SPF—it’s rarely enough to shield your skin properly.
There’s also a shocking new trend: some teens check the UV index not to protect their skin, but to plan tanning sessions when UV rays are strongest. This risky behavior can cause serious skin damage down the road.
The conversation also covers skin health from the inside out. Supplements like Polypodium leucotomos extract, a natural fern-based product, can help protect skin, especially in summer. Probiotics might aid those battling acne. But the experts warn against jumping on every new supplement claiming to reverse aging—it’s better to stick with proven science.
Bottom line? Teens don’t need complicated, expensive routines. Simple, consistent skincare using the right products is the secret to healthy, glowing skin—and it saves both your skin and your wallet. Ready to clear the confusion and give your skin what it really needs?
