Young Kids and Skincare
With the high pressures of flawless skin in today’s society along with unrealistic filters on our kids’ devices, it’s our responsibility as the wiser generations to promote natural, healthy skincare for our youth. Waiting until they start getting acne is not the time to get them involved in their own self-care. Helping them create new habits early on before problems arise is ideal. In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of starting kids young on skincare, the ideal age to begin, suitable products, how to use them, and who can assist in this crucial journey.
Why Start Early?
The notion of skincare for children might seem unusual, but it's essential to remember that healthy skin is a lifelong commitment. By introducing skincare routines during childhood, we can equip our kids with invaluable information about self-care, sun protection, and maintaining healthy skin.
1. Protection from the Sun:
Young skin is more vulnerable to UV damage, which can lead to premature aging and skin cancer later in life. Educating kids about sunscreen application and the importance of wearing hats and protective clothing when outdoors can be a game-changer.
2. Prevention is Better Than Cure:
Starting a skincare routine early can help prevent common issues like acne and eczema. Nurturing a routine that includes cleansing and moisturizing helps maintain the skin's natural balance, dramatically reducing the likelihood of future problems.
3. Boosting Confidence:
Healthy skin can significantly impact a child's self-esteem. By giving them the tools to care for their skin, we empower them to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin, no matter their age.
What's the Ideal Age to Begin?
While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, introducing sunscreen to kids can start as early as infancy. This part is up to the parents. Always apply sunscreen as early as you can when exposing your children to the sun. Investing in an organic sunscreen for babies and infants is very important.
The first step involves gentle cleansing and moisturizing to maintain the delicate baby skin's health. As kids grow, around ages 9-10, it's an excellent time to teach them the basics of skincare hygiene, including washing their face, applying sunscreen, and keeping their skin clean.
The Best Products for Kids
When choosing skincare products for children, opt for gentle, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free options. Here are some key products and tips:
1. Cleanser: A mild, soap-free cleanser helps remove dirt and sweat without stripping the skin's natural oils.
Try this one: Green Tea Citrus Cleanser
2. Sunscreen: Sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 should be used daily, even on cloudy days. Coola Classic Face SPF 30
3. Moisturizer: A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer helps keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores. Hush Hydrate Gel
4. Lip Balm: A lip balm with SPF protection is crucial to shield delicate lip skin from UV damage. Lip Balm SPF 15
How to Use Skincare Products
Teaching kids the correct way to use skincare products is essential. Encourage them to follow these simple steps:
1. Cleanse: Gently wash the face with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, using their hands or a soft cloth. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
2. Moisturize: After cleansing, apply a small amount of moisturizer to the face and neck to keep the skin hydrated.
3. Apply Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin areas, ensuring it's absorbed before heading outdoors.
4. Lip Balm: Apply lip balm with SPF protection as needed throughout the day.
Who Can Help?
As parents or caregivers, it's our responsibility to guide kids on their skincare journey. Engage them in the process, making it fun and educational. Consider seeking professional guidance from a licensed Esthetician for specific concerns or issues that may arise. Additionally, involving a skincare professional or spa that specializes in kid-friendly skincare treatments can be both educational and enjoyable for your child.
In conclusion, starting kids young on skincare not only helps protect their skin from harmful elements but also instills essential self-care habits. By teaching them early, we equip them with the tools they need to maintain healthy skin throughout their lives.
