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.
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.
For anti-aging purposes, you can start preventatively in your 20s. While over-the-counter retinol can help mild acne, many people with breakouts will need a prescription. Prescription retinoids, including oral isotretinoin and topical tretinoin, are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ages 12 and up.
Start thinking about retinol...but definitely wait till your late 20s. All derms will agree that the earlier you start addressing signs of aging, the better off you'll be. "As you enter your 20s, early signs of sun-damage and aging show on the skin," says Rachel Nazarian, M.D., at Schweiger Dermatology Group.
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.
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.
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.
Retinoids reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen. They also stimulate the production of new blood vessels in the skin, which improves skin color. Additional benefits include fading age spots and softening rough patches of skin.
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.
Using any form of retinol makes your skin more prone to sunburn. Sun damage combined with retinol burn is a recipe for redness or discoloration, inflammation, and more.
The bottom line. Retinol is a well-known ingredient in pro-aging creams, gels, and serums. What many people don't know is that it can also be used to treat acne and acne-scarred skin. It works on both the surface and middle layers of the skin to unclog pores, smooth scars, and improve tone and texture.
For beginners, most dermatologists recommend a retinol with a concentration of 0.25 percent to one percent to see results.
0.3% – a relatively low but effective dose of retinol. "0.3% retinol is enough to give a good effect but also enough not to put the skin at risk or irritate the skin," continued Abi. "There are creams out there formulated at 1% and 2% but in my experience consumers don't always use retinol properly.
Who should skip retinol? “Retinols can be a beneficial addition for most skin types, but it isn't a one-size-fits-all approach,” Panzica says. Board certified dermatologist Zenovia Gabriel, MD, notes that “people with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea cannot tolerate really strong topicals like retinols.”
Retinoids
Inflammatory acne that's so common during your teen years may also be treated with retinoids. These are types of vitamin A derivatives that unplug clogged oil ducts to prevent cysts and nodules. Retinoids may be your next step if benzoyl peroxide doesn't do the trick.
Again, there is no definitive evidence that topical retinoids lead to cancer or reproductive toxicity, but the evidence we do have is pretty much on par with that of parabens.
You should get your child mild products to take care of their skin. This includes facial wash/mild soap, small towel, toner, moisturizing cream, acne treatment (in case they get acne), in addition to a sunscreen because kids at this age tend to play outdoors under direct sunlight.
A daily routine of washing your face, hydrating with a moisturizer, and spot-treating your largest blemishes with salicylic acne serum will not only diminish a current breakout but will also help prevent future breakouts from messing with your confidence.
Around the age of 11, hormones are beginning to influence your skin's look and feel, and it would be a good idea to introduce a skincare regimen into your daily routine. A full-blown product lineup isn't necessary now, but it helps to identify your skin type now.
BHAs and AHAs are the best topical treatments for most mild acne. It's not recommended that topical salicylic acid be applied before the age of 2, and well, you're clearly in the safe zone by your teens.
If you want to introduce your teen to skincare but they have no particular issues, The Ordinary Daily Set contains the Squalane Cleanser, Hyaluronic Acid and Natural Moisturising Factors. This would be a good place to start.
Applying retinol is a long-term treatment which promotes fresh skin, fewer blemishes and reduction in acne breakouts. Whereas in the short term, it can lead to acne breakouts, skin peeling, dryness, and a range of other frustrating temporary outcomes. The purge phase usually lasts for two to six weeks.