Most commonly asked questions about teenage boy skincare
As mum’s we’re always focussed on doing the best by our boys and guiding them through life’s changes.
Growing up and becoming teenagers means dealing with a lot body changes, mood swings and new hormones. It’s a lot to deal with! We’ve compiled a list of the most common questions mum face with their teens.
What exactly are pimples?
It’s likely you don’t remember too much of high school biology! The basics points of it are, our skin has sebaceous glands. They release an oily substance called sebum which helps to protect our skin. During puberty, our hormones start to change and the levels of the hormone testosterone can affect the amount sebum produced. Too much and it can start to block hair follicles. Dead skin cells and bacteria can then get in the mix, causing congestion and the formation of spots. Bacteria in the skin multiply, which can cause inflammation beneath the blockages. There are different types of spots; blackheads (small, blocked pores), whiteheads (small, hard bumps with a white centre), pustules (spots with a lot of pus sitting just under the skin) and nodules (hard, painful lumps under the skin).
Do all teenage boys get pimples?
All boys develop at different rates. Your son may still have a clear, youthful face whilst his friends are all getting pimples. Does that mean he won’t? He may be lucky, but it is reality that most teenagers will have some pimples at some point. It may be only a few every now and then, but others unfortunately may have a more extreme outbreak. Scientists really don’t have a definite answer to what causes acne and there are many myths. It is believed to be a combination of a few factors, with genetics playing a big part in determining whether someone gets acne or not. Hormonal changes affect everyone through puberty but to varying degrees. The way the skin reacts to hormonal changes also differs in person to person.
My son has a really healthy diet so why is he still getting pimples?
We know that diet can have an impact, but it’s only one factor. Although having a healthy diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is a great way to help care for skin and overall body health, most teenagers will at least have some breakouts simply due to changing hormones. A skincare routine and good hygiene are an important part of minimising pimples and breakouts. If you get boys into a skincare routine early you can prevent their skin worsening. Extreme acne can occur in some cases and seeing a doctor or dermatologist is recommended.
We recommend a really simple two step routine to keep skin clean and keep oils balanced on their face:
Step 1: Wash and cleanser the face with a gentle face wash like Clean Face for Boys. This is easy to do in the shower, so it’s a great way to get them in to the routine. If you can get them to wash their face twice a day even better!
Step 2: Hydrate the face with a lightweight moisturiser like Hydrate Face for Boys. Keeping the face hydrated prevents the skin from over producing oil.
What age should I start my son on a skin care routine?
It’s never too early to start your son with a good routine of skincare - they don’t need to be teenagers. Around 12 years of age is often when the first sign of little bumps can start to occur. Getting them to wash their face twice a day, like when brushing their teeth or showering often makes it easier. And you will need to explain how to use products properly - don’t assume they will know what to do. Once you get them started though, it will be come easier to remember without nagging!
What to do when teenage boys lose confidence and become self conscious?
We all went through puberty ourselves, so we know what a difficult time it can be. As a mum, we want to do all we can to minimise this for our kids. For boys it can be an especially tricky time. There are a lots of body changes, including growth spurts, changing voices, body odour, facial and body hair and an awakening sexuality. All of these changes are a lot to cope with at a time when they already feel awkward and self-conscious. Unexplained mood swings, aggression, depression and low self-esteem are all difficult to handle in themselves but add them to the physical changes they are experiencing and puberty can be horrendous. Trying to support your teenage son emotionally is often a challenge as they withdraw in to themselves. Introducing a skincare and hygiene routine is one of the easier ways to assist quickly. If your son is really becoming withdrawn it may be appropriate to seek some professional help, starting with your GP. Alternatively your son’s school may have a guidance officer or pastoral worker that could too.