As kids enter the preteen years (around ages 9-12), their skin starts to change. Hormones begin to shift which can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, or the first signs of acne. Even if your child hasn’t had skin problems yet, this is a good time to introduce healthy skincare habits. A simple routine that supports and protects the skin is all that’s needed and there’s no need for fancy products or complicated steps (1). Below is a clear and gentle approach to skincare for preteens: 

1. Cleanse Gently 

Washing the face once or twice a day is important to remove dirt, oil, and sweat. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser made for sensitive skin. Avoid using bare soap or rough scrubs, which can dry out or damage the skin. Over-washing or scrubbing too hard can actually make skin problems worse by irritating the skin barrier (2). 

2. Use a moisturizer 

After washing, it’s a good idea to apply a moisturizer, especially if the skin feels dry or tight. Look for a non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores), fragrance-free moisturizer. Moisturizers with ceramides (a type of fat found in the upper layers of the skin) or beta glucan are especially good at helping to protect the skin’s natural barrier. These are safe and helpful even if acne isn’t present (3). By Dr. Mom soothing Beta-glucan Cream works great as an every day moisturizer! 

3. Wear Sunscreen Every Day

Sun protection is a must, even for kids. Daily sunscreen helps prevent long-term skin damage and sunburn. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. It should be used every morning, even on cloudy days. For convenience, some moisturizers include sunscreen and this is a great way to combine two steps in one (3). 

4. Treating Early Acne 

If preteens start to get breakouts, simple over-the-counter acne products may help. Look for ones with benzoyl peroxide or adapalene. Benzoyl peroxide helps clear up acne by killing the bacteria that causes pimples and adapalene helps your skin shed old cells so pores do not get clogged. Adapalene is officially approved for kids 12 and up, but lower doses may be used in younger kids with a doctor’s advice. These treatments should be added slowly and used along with moisturizer and sunscreen to prevent dryness and irritation. Mild acne is common at this age and usually manageable with the right products (2, 3,4,).

5. Avoid Complicated Routines 

Many social media influencers show long and complex skincare routines with lots of products. But for preteens, this can do more harm than good. Using too many products increases the risk of irritation, allergic reactions, and wasting money. Most kids only need three things: a gentle cleanser, a good moisturizer and sunscreen (5,6). 

6. Skip Anti-Aging and Cosmeceutical Products 

Preteens do not need anti-aging creams, serums, or strong cosmetic treatments. These products have not been tested enough for young skiing and may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Stick with gentle, basic products that are made sensitive or young skin (5). 

Keep it Simple and Consistent 

Skincare for preteens doesn’t have to be complicated. The best approach is a simple, gentle routine that supports healthy skin without overdoing it. Cleanse with a mild wash, moisturizer daily and use sunscreen every morning. If acne appears, try a basic treatment and be patient as it often takes time to see results. 

Encouraging preteens to take care of their skin in a healthy, age-appropriate way can build good habits that last a lifetime. Less is more when it comes to young skin and a simple, consistent routine is the best foundation (1). 

References

1. Goff Gk, Stein SL. Cosmeceuticals in the Pediatric Population Part I: A Review of Risks and Available Evidence. Pediatr Dermatol. 2025 Mar-Apr; 42 (2): 221-227 

2. Goodman G. Cleansing and moisturizing in acne parents. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2009: 10 Suppl 1:1-6

3. Schachnew L, Andriesses A, Benjamin L, Dones M, Kircik L, Pinera-Llano A, Keller L, Hebert A. The Many Faces of Pediatric Acne: How to Tailor Nonprescription Acne Treatment and Skincare Using Cleansers and Moisturizers. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022 Jun 1; 21(6): 602-612

4. Hensely D, Mechfessel MH. Tolerability of a Skin Care Regimen Formulated for Acne-Prone Skin in Children. Pediatrl Dermatol. 2015 Jul-Aug; 32(4): 501-5

5. Pham AK, Ginulos JG. Cosmeceuticals for children: Should you care? Curr Opin Pediatr. 2014 Aug; 26(4): 446-51

6. Halles M, Rigali S, Paller A, Liszewski W, Lagu T. Pediatric Skin Care Regiments on TikTok. Pediatric. 2025 July 1; 156 (1):e2024070309