Teen Skincare: Google asks, Upenya answers

Photo by: @simoneschoemanprinsloo

Teen skincare decoded: From Google to Reddit, these are the real questions teens are asking and the science-backed answers that actually help.

1. Do I really need a skincare routine as a teen?

Yes, but keep it simple. A gentle cleanser, a lightweight moisturiser, and daily sunscreen are all you need to start. Forget the 10-step routines; healthy skin comes from consistency, not clutter.

2. Why do I get pimples even though I wash my face?

Hormones. During puberty, oil (sebum) production spikes, clogging pores and feeding acne-causing bacteria. Washing too often or using harsh cleansers can make things worse. Stick to gentle, pH-balanced cleansers and never skip moisturiser - when your skin gets dehydrated, it can actually produce more oil to protect itself.

3. What’s the right skincare routine for teens?

Morning:

• Cleanse gently.

• Moisturise with a light, non-comedogenic formula.

• Protect every morning with SPF 30 or higher.

Evening:

• Cleanse again

• Moisturise

• Target blemishes using proven actives like salicylic acid or niacinamide.

That’s it. Simple, effective, repeatable.

4. Can I use strong ingredients like retinol or acids?

Not yet - unless prescribed by a dermatologist. Teen skin is still building its protective barrier. Overusing “anti-aging” actives can cause irritation and redness. Look for gentler ingredients like marula oil, aloe ferox, or mild fruit acids (AHAs) that smooth skin without stripping it.

5. Does makeup cause acne?

It can if it’s heavy or not removed properly. Choose non-comedogenic, oil-free makeup and always wash it off before bed. Never rely on makeup to “fix” skin issues - it only hides them temporarily.

6. How do I know my skin type?

If your skin feels tight → dry.

Looks shiny by lunch → oily.

Both? → combination.

Sensitive? → prone to redness or stinging.

Knowing your skin type helps you choose products that support your skin, not fight it.

7. How often should I exfoliate?

You don’t need harsh scrubs - they can cause micro-tears and disrupt your skin barrier. Instead, choose a gentle daily exfoliating cleanser that does the work for you.

Upenya’s Exfoliating Cleanser uses mild AHAs and plant-based surfactants to lift away dead skin cells and excess oil without stripping or irritating your skin. Gentle enough for daily use, it helps keep your complexion smooth, clear, and balanced.

8. Does diet or stress affect acne?

Yes, but not as much as social media says. A balanced diet, enough sleep, clean pillowcases, and regular exercise all help your skin perform better. Stress hormones can trigger breakouts, so self-care counts too.

9. When should I see a dermatologist?

If your acne is painful, cystic, or not improving with gentle products - get professional help early. Scarring (and confidence dips) are easier to prevent than to fix later.

10. Do teens really need sunscreen?

Absolutely. UV damage starts young and adds up. Even short walks to school or sports practice count. Daily SPF is the single best “anti-aging” and “anti-acne” product you’ll ever use.

Healthy skin isn’t about perfection. It’s about balance - cleansing without stripping, moisturising without clogging, protecting without overdoing.

At Upenya, we've built a simple skincare routine with teen skin in mind: gentle, microbiome-friendly, pH-balanced, clinically tested, and backed by science - not social media trends.

Filters fake it, Upenya fixes it.