Part II:  Kids Skincare 101

In our previous post we covered some of the basics of skin health, including what to expect at the various ages and stages, and the basics of sun protection. In this entry, were answering more questions and helping you tackle some of the deeper issues that may surface as your child begins their skin journey.  

How do I get my child to take charge of their skin care routine?

Getting your child involved in the process of taking care of their skin is the best way to get them started. Allow them to pick out products and try different things.  They will learn a lot simply from watching you and will often model your behaviors as they get older.  Have informal conversations with your child about various skin care products and share your personal experiences with them. Use incentives as a way to encourage your child to wear SPF and engage in healthy skin care habits. Depending on their age you will have to be the one making sure their skin care stash stays stocked. Overtime they will become more independent and you will be able to pull back.  The most important thing when introducing your child to a skincare routine is to keep the experience positive.  Avoid pointing out flaws and using fear as a means to help them become compliant. That tactic can backfire and actually make things worse in the long run. Focus on the positive benefits of taking care of their skin and you will see them incorporating it as part of their daily routine.

What is the number one thing I should tell my child about taking care of their skin?

First, you should talk to your children about the importance of SPF. The idea of people of color not needing SPF is dangerous and needs to stop being passed down from generation to generation.  Teach them early that SPF is a quintessential part of their routine and not just designated to the summer months. Second, teach your child that skincare is a part of personal hygiene much like brushing their teeth and taking a bath. If they learn these two things early there is a greater chance that they will develop proper skin care habits into adulthood.

How can I help my teen deal with the emotional toll of acne?

Acne can be very emotional for teenagers.  The onset of acne especially Grades 3 and 4 is often the tipping point where many parents will take their children to see a dermatologist for the first time.  It is very important to talk with your children about the changes they are experiencing with their skin during this time. If your teen is not interested in speaking with you as some teens are known to do during this stage of development try to be compassionate and understanding. Keep your eyes open for any signs of bullying or pressure your child may be experiencing as a result of their skin condition. It is a time to do self esteemchecks and make sure your young person is emotionally healthy. If you are concerned that your child may be having a difficult time coping with their acne reach out to their school counselor or other support persons to help navigate helping your child.

How can I get my son to stay consistent with a skin routine?

There are tons of skin care products targeted towards pre-teen girls and young women on cosmetic shelves.  The selection for young boys remains limited.  Avoid gender bias by educating your male child on the importance of taking care of his skin. The old idea that skin care is just for girls should be completely abandoned.  Remember it is about teaching our children to make healthy lifestyle choices and good hygiene is one of them.  If your son goes to the barber shop talk to him about pseudofolliculitis barbae (aka razor bumps). Let them know that despite popular belief razor bumps are not caused by “dirty” clippers.  They are caused by hair that curls back into the skin producing an inflammatory reaction. A mild exfoliating scrub can help with the pores and lessen the chance of acne formation.  Educate them on proper sanitization in the barber shop so they can be aware if anything is awry and let you know. Having a son or daughter that is an athlete is also an opportunity to get them into the habit of practicing good skin health.  Encourage your child to wash his or her face right after workouts and games where they have worked up a winners sweat.

How Do I Manage Sudden Breakout, Rashes, and Itch with My Child?

You should monitor your child’s skin closely anytime you introduce new medications or products for the treatment of illness, and other chronic health or skin conditions. Look for rashes and other unusual changes on the skin. No matter how big or small report any changes that you notice immediately to your health care professional.  You also want to be mindful of the products you are using at home that can cause skin irritations to your child.  Cleaning products like scented laundry detergents and household cleaners can pose potential risks to the skin of your young child.  Signs of irritation include itching, watery eyes, and headache.  Allergy testing may be necessary for some children, especially if you have a family history of allergies.  Help your child develop awareness around their skin and its response to household and personal care products.  ALWAYS call your pediatrician or a pediatric dermatologist if you are concerned about changes on your child’s skin.

Should I Let my Teenager get A Chemical Peel or Start Acne Medication?

The decision for your teenage son or daughter to get a chemical peel or start acne medication should not be taken lightly. Remember the days when getting a perm was a big deal, well its similar to that. It’s rolling out the big guns for the skin. You should consult with a physician about the potential benefits and risks associated with both a chemical peel and acne medication. Some chemical peels are very strong and not a suitable option for young people. When it comes to medication making sure your teen understands usage and dosage and how the medication will interact with their skin. It is an important conversation.  With the proper guidance a chemical peel or acne medication may be right for your teen but the decision should not be taken lightly or made in haste.

One of the best ways to teach your child about taking care of their skin is to lead by example. Take care of your skin by engaging in a full skincare routine each day. Teenagers can also get started on their skin journey with the YELLE Beauty Essential System. This plant-based regimen is formulated with zero parabens or phthalates and suitable for all skin types, especially for those new to skin care