Louisiana Dermatology Associates Helps Your Pre-Teens and Teens Keep Their Skin Clear

As your child navigates through middle school to high school, it’s an important time to start discussing skincare. Hormones, stress, and puberty are all the perfect concoction for painful, unsightly breakouts and can take a toll on your child’s self-esteem. Dr. Mary Dickerson of Louisiana Dermatology Associates has a few recommendations for helping your child to have clear, healthy skin.

Begin a Face Washing Routine
Many pre-teens and teens don’t understand what “washing your face” means. It’s important for parents to show what proper face washing looks like, and to help integrate this routine into their day. “They should wash their face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, like Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser,” says Dr. Dickerson. She recommends putting a bottle of cleanser in the shower, or next to the bathroom sink, so your child can start forming a habit. If your child is in a hurry or is likely to forget, consider buying gentle wipes like the Cetaphil Facial Cleansing Wipes.

Encourage Daily SPF
Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in an established skincare routine. No matter the age, sunscreen should be used daily to help prevent skin cancer and combat premature aging. Dr. Dickerson recommends a daily sunscreen like Elta MD or Cerave AM. “Sunscreen needs to be applied on the face, neck, and other areas where your child might get more sun,” she states.

If your child is enrolled in afterschool sports, look into getting a full-body sunscreen alongside a face sunscreen.

See a Board-Certified Dermatologist for Unruly Acne
If your child’s skin doesn’t seem to be clearing up or is showing new signs of inflammation or irritation, Dr. Dickerson recommends bringing them to see a Board-Certified Dermatologist. Pay attention to issues like cystic acne or scarring, which can lead to more skin problems. For more information, visit louisiana-dermatology.com.