Skincare isn’t just about beauty—it’s a form of self-care that teaches consistency, confidence, and the importance of taking care of your body. But one question we hear a lot is: When should kids actually start a skincare routine?
Most tweens start thinking about skincare when they notice a breakout or skin issue. And while that’s totally understandable, waiting for a problem to pop up can mean missing out on preventative care that makes a big difference—especially during those early hormonal years.
The sweet spot to start? Around age 12, when puberty begins to show up. This is when the skin starts changing—think increased oil production, clogged pores, and breakouts. A gentle, age-appropriate routine can help ease the transition and build healthy habits early on.
Here’s what a solid starter routine should include:
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Cleanser – Gentle, non-stripping cleansers keep skin fresh and clear without drying it out.
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Moisturizer – Hydration is key, even for oily skin. Look for lightweight creams packed with nourishing ingredients like aloe, sweet almond oil, or shea butter.
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Sunscreen – Non-negotiable! Daily SPF helps protect developing skin from harmful UV rays and sets the stage for long-term skin health.
From there, you can customize based on your child’s skin type or concerns. Have a tween dealing with oily or acne-prone skin? Add a gentle exfoliator and maybe a lightweight serum. Got dry patches or flaky spots? Lean into moisture-rich products and barrier-protecting balms. Even fun extras like face masks or lip balms help make self-care something kids look forward to.
Knowing your child’s skin type—whether dry, oily, or combination—can also help guide what products to use. Each skin type has unique needs, and the goal is to build a balanced, fuss-free routine that works for them now and sets them up for healthy skin in the future.
If your tween is asking about skincare, that’s your sign—it’s time. And no worries if you’re starting a little later than that. The best time to begin is when they’re ready and curious. Skin care isn’t about perfection. It’s about learning to care for the body they’re growing into.
✨ Reminder: Stick to clean, simple ingredients and avoid anything too harsh or loaded with chemicals. LavKids has your back with safe, gentle, tween-friendly options your kids will love using.