Topical retinoids approved for treatment of acne vulgaris are indicated only down to age 12 years, with the exception of tretinoin 0.05% gel (Atralin), which is approved for use in children as young as 10 years of age. But acne is a significant problem well before age 10, noted Dr.
Generally speaking, I recommend most people start using retinol in their mid to late-20s, anywhere from 25-30. This is when collagen and elastin production starts to slow down, so it's the perfect time to start reaping the preventative-aging benefits retinol has to offer.
To get started with simple skincare habits, you should put together a few items that are mild, including a face cleanser, moisturizer, acne treatment (in case a pimple shows up), and sunscreen. It's essential to wear sunscreen and reapply if necessary, since young skin is more sensitive than adult skin.
The truth is, a dermatologist may recommend you start using retinol in your routine at different ages depending on your skin. With that said, it's an ingredient recommended for those in a wide age range, including those who are younger than you might have expected.
Retinol, and prescription retinoids, are commonly used for getting rid of breakouts—especially in teenagers. Since retinoids are safe for acne-prone teens and their young skin, then retinol is safe to use when you are young before you see any signs of aging.
Myth: Young people can't use retinoids
But there is no age restriction on the use of retinoids. Instead, it's about what skin conditions are being treated. After sunscreen, it's one of the best preventive anti-aging ingredients around.
Best Overall: CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
We named CeraVe Cream-to-Foam Cleanser our top pick because it's specially designed for all skin types and won't irritate the skin. The wash starts as a cream to remove dirt, oil, and makeup, and then turns into a foam as you wash.
You are too young to be starting to use toner/exfoliator. In fact, you don't really need to start washing your face until you are 11. For now, if you're really that keen, just wash your face with mild Cetaphil cleanser and then applying lotion.
The "tween years" can be challenging for both children and their parents. Young adolescents are continuing to explore their community and world and beginning to develop unique identities separate from their parents.
Retinol, and prescription retinoids, are commonly used for getting rid of breakouts—especially in teenagers. Since retinoids are safe for acne-prone teens and their young skin, then retinol is safe to use when you are young before you see any signs of aging.
Vichy Mineral 89 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Daily Face Moisturizer may be used by people 13 years of age and older. This contains natural origin hyaluronic acid and 15 Mineral-Rich Vichy Volcanic Water to strengthen & repair your skin barrier. It will hydrate and plump your skin.
Legally, the term child may refer to anyone below the age of majority or some other age limit. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child defines child as "a human being below the age of 18 years unless under the law applicable to the child, majority is attained earlier".
A teenager, or teen, is someone who is between 13 and 19 years old. They are called teenagers because their age number ends with "teen". The word "teenager" is often associated with adolescence. Most neurologists consider the brain still developing into the persons early, or mid-20s.
A tween (pre-teen) is a child who's between the stages of childhood and adolescence. It's this “in-between” stage that the name “tween” is derived from. The term was first coined in the late 1980s. Children enter their tween years somewhere around ages 9 to 12 years old.
A child's skincare regimen should include a daily bath with a gentle cleanser, followed by application of a moisturizer. In the summer, it's also important they wear sunscreen applied several times throughout the day, especially because a child's skin is more sensitive than most adults' skin.
Encourage good cleansing habits, such as face washing with a gentle cleanser twice a day. Start treatment with over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide products. If acne gets worse, see a board-certified dermatologist to start therapy. Stay involved in your child's treatment routine.
Moisturizer for Kids
Though we recommend a gentle cleanser for 9-year-old skincare, it can strip some of the natural oils that the skin creates. Moisturizer brings those back into the skin. Just like cleansers, some moisturizers can have chemicals that are too harsh for kids.
The Short Answer
So, starting a basic skin-care routine in your teens and 20s is a good idea. But, if you are older, it's not too late to start caring for your skin. Forming healthy skin-care habits and routines will help you at any age.
When it comes to a skincare routine, there is no particular age. However, if we had a put a number on when to start, we would suggest that you start with the basics such as a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen around the age of 13 to 15, when you hit puberty and your skin undergoes multiple changes.
Topical retinoids approved for treatment of acne vulgaris are indicated only down to age 12 years, with the exception of tretinoin 0.05% gel (Atralin), which is approved for use in children as young as 10 years of age.
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid topical should not be used on a child younger than 12 years old.
Niacinamide is one of the most versatile skincare ingredients and is super easy to incorporate into your routine. Suitable for all skin types and all ages (from teens to mature skin) it can be used both morning and evening but remember consistency is key if you want to see results.
The age in which tweens develop romantic interests in other people varies tremendously from child to child. Some kids may start expressing interest in having a boyfriend or girlfriend as early as age 10 while others are 12 or 13 before they show any interest.