New school year, new schedule… and for many tweens and teens, new skincare concerns. Whether your child is noticing breakouts for the first time or navigating oily, sensitive skin during puberty, back-to-school season is the perfect time to reset their skincare routine.

At Pacific Crest Dermatology, we specialize in helping kids and teens build smart skincare habits that are age-appropriate, evidence-based, and actually doable. Here's what we recommend for a smooth skincare start this school year.

1. Start Simple (and Keep It Consistent)

You don’t need a shelf full of products. In fact, less is often more—especially for developing skin. Here’s a dermatologist-approved starter routine:

• Cleanser: A gentle foaming or gel cleanser once or twice daily.

• Moisturizer: Lightweight, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic.

• Sunscreen: Mineral or oil-free SPF 30+ every morning—yes, even on cloudy days.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep it in the shower or by the sink to make it part of their routine.

2. Put Down the Anti-Aging Serums

Social media and beauty store trends have made products like retinol, glycolic acid, and vitamin C serums popular among younger and younger kids—but these actives are not appropriate for tween skin.

These “anti-aging” ingredients are designed for mature skin and can lead to irritation, dryness, and even skin barrier damage in tweens and early teens.

We love that kids are excited about skincare—but let’s guide them toward gentle, age-appropriate products that support their skin health rather than stress it out. If you’re not sure what’s safe, we’re here to help.

3. Know What to Expect with Acne

Hormonal changes during puberty often bring breakouts—especially on the forehead, nose, and chin. Mild acne is normal, but inflamed or persistent breakouts can affect a child’s confidence and may require medical treatment.

At Pacific Crest Dermatology, we offer safe, customized acne plans for tweens and teens that focus on building skin confidence—not overdoing it with harsh products.

4. Play Sports? Add Hypochlorous Acid Spray

If your child is active in sports or tends to break out after sweating, consider adding hypochlorous acid spray to their post-practice routine. It’s a gentle, anti-inflammatory mist that helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and calm irritated skin—without drying it out.

Spray it on after a workout, under sports helmets, or even on the back and chest to help prevent breakouts in those high-friction areas. It’s great for locker room bags and doesn’t sting or smell.

5. Don’t Fall for the “More is Better” Trap

Avoid overwhelming young skin with too many steps or strong treatments. Stay away from:

• Harsh scrubs or exfoliators

• Alcohol-based toners

• Retinoids or acids not prescribed by a doctor

• Layering too many actives “just because TikTok said so”

Healthy skin is about consistency—not complexity.

6. Build Confidence, Not Just a Routine

Skincare is a form of self-care, and for tweens and teens, it’s a great way to build confidence and independence. Teaching kids to care for their skin now sets the stage for healthier habits in adulthood.

Have Questions About Tween or Teen Skincare?

Book a visit with Dr. Schneider at Pacific Crest Dermatology in Carson City for guidance on safe, effective skincare tailored to your child’s age and skin needs. We’re here to help your family navigate puberty, acne, and everything in between—with confidence and compassion.