The Ordinary Skincare Guide for Teens: A Simple Routine for Healthy Skin
Affordable, straightforward actives to balance oil and support healthier complexions.
Teenage years come with rapid skin changes—often resulting in oiliness, breakouts, or persistent dryness. Navigating the vast world of skincare can be overwhelming, but The Ordinary, known for its straightforward formulations and affordability, offers a user-friendly way for teens to build a routine that supports healthy skin, addresses common issues like acne, and encourages good habits that last a lifetime. This comprehensive guide will help you understand teen skincare needs and create a personalized regimen using The Ordinary’s best products.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Teen Skin
- Why Choose The Ordinary?
- Key The Ordinary Products for Teens
- Morning Skincare Routine
- Evening Skincare Routine
- Weekly Treatments and Add-Ons
- Skincare Tips for Teens
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Understanding Teen Skin
During adolescence, hormonal fluctuations increase oil (sebum) production in the skin. This can lead to:
- Oily skin and clogged pores
- Acne breakouts (whiteheads, blackheads, pimples)
- Sensitivity—due to hormonal changes or overusing harsh products
- Dryness in certain areas, often from acne treatments or environmental exposure
The right skincare routine helps:
- Balance natural oils
- Prevent and calm breakouts
- Protect the skin barrier
- Promote healthy habits that last into adulthood
Why Choose The Ordinary?
The Ordinary is a brand renowned for its transparent formulations. Each product spotlights active ingredients, providing:
- Affordability: Products are budget-friendly and accessible
- Simplicity: Clean formulas with minimal unnecessary additives
- Customization: Ability to pick and layer actives based on individual needs
This makes The Ordinary especially suitable for teens—those new to skincare, on a budget, or seeking solutions to common adolescent skin concerns.
Key The Ordinary Products for Teens
Establishing a basic skincare routine starts with understanding product categories:
- Cleansers
- Serums
- Moisturizers
- Treatments (exfoliants, masks)
Not all The Ordinary products are appropriate for all ages. Here are the most recommended, teen-friendly choices, cited by skincare experts and user feedback for efficacy and gentleness.
Squalane Cleanser
A gentle, non-stripping cleanser that removes makeup, oil, and dirt without disrupting the skin barrier. Best for daily use (morning and night). Some teens may prefer the Glucoside Foaming Cleanser for a lightweight, foaming action that’s quick and easy to apply.
Best for: all skin types, especially sensitive or balanced skin.
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
A lightweight serum that hydrates and plumps the skin, reducing feelings of tightness or dryness. Hydration is essential even for oily and acne-prone skin, as dehydration can worsen oiliness and irritation.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
One of The Ordinary’s best-sellers, this serum helps balance oil production, reduce redness, and visibly minimize breakouts. An effective option for teens experiencing acne or uneven skin tone.
Patch test before use as it may cause irritation in some users.
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
A lightweight moisturizer that mimics skin’s natural barrier and hydrates without feeling greasy.
Available in several textures to suit oily, combination, or dry skin.
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
A gentle treatment cream that targets redness, post-acne marks, and blemishes. Suitable for older teens with persistent breakouts or uneven tone.
Not recommended for young teens; always patch test before integrating it.
Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
An exfoliating mask designed to unclog pores and reduce acne. Use only once a week and never leave on for longer than 10 minutes.
Best for spot-treating breakouts, not whole-face unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
Note: Sun protection (SPF) is critical with any skincare routine, especially when using active treatments. The Ordinary does not currently provide facial sunscreens; recommended options are oil-free SPFs from brands like La Roche-Posay or Avene.
Morning Skincare Routine
For beginners or those with mild concerns, keep it simple and consistent. A complete teen morning routine might look like:
- Cleanser: Glucoside Foaming Cleanser or Squalane Cleanser
- Hydration: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum (apply to damp skin)
- Treatment: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (for oil and breakouts) [optional]
- Moisturizer: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
- Sun Protection: Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, oil-free for acne-prone skin
Routine Order:
- Water-based products (cleansers, watery serums) first
- Follow with suspended or creamy formulas (treatments, moisturizers)
- Finish with sunscreen (always last in the morning!)
Evening Skincare Routine
Nighttime skincare focuses on cleansing, repair, and hydration.
- Cleanser: Remove excess oil and sunscreen buildup
- Hydration: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Treatment: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (optional)
- Treatment: Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% (only for older teens as needed, rotated with niacinamide; do not layer at first)
- Moisturizer: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
If you are just starting, use only two or three products at night and add more gradually if needed.
Weekly Treatments and Add-Ons
- Salicylic Acid 2% Masque: Apply once a week to spot-treat congested areas (like T-zone or occasional breakouts). Rinse thoroughly after 10 minutes.
- Caution: Never use exfoliating acids (like the mask) in the same routine as other strong actives to avoid irritation.
Weekly masks or treatments should be introduced only after establishing a comfortable daily routine.
Skincare Tips for Teens
- Patch test new products before applying to the entire face.
- Introduce one new product at a time—wait several days before adding another.
- Don’t over-exfoliate: Once per week is enough for most teens.
- Never pick or squeeze pimples—it can cause scarring and spread bacteria.
- Avoid layering too many active ingredients at once.
- Wear sunscreen every day, even when indoors or in winter.
- Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated—skin health starts from within.
- Consult a dermatologist for persistent, severe, or painful acne.
Sample Simple Routine Table
| Step | Product | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanser | Squalane or Glucoside Foaming | AM + PM |
| Hydration | Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 | AM + PM |
| Treatment | Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | AM or PM |
| Moisturizer | Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA | AM + PM |
| Sunscreen | Non-comedogenic SPF | AM, last step |
| Weekly | Salicylic Acid 2% Masque | 1x weekly |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is The Ordinary safe for teenage skin?
A: Yes—many Ordinary products use gentle, non-comedogenic ingredients suitable for teens. However, always patch test and avoid harsh actives like high-strength peels unless under supervision.
Q: Should teens exfoliate?
A: Light exfoliation (like the Salicylic Acid 2% Masque) once a week can help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Over-exfoliation can worsen irritation, so less is more.
Q: What if my teenager only wants a super basic routine?
A: That’s great! Cleansing, moisturizing, and wearing sunscreen are enough for most young teens. Only add more (like niacinamide or spot treatments) if issues arise.
Q: How can I tell if a product is causing irritation?
A: Signs include redness, stinging, itching or increased breakouts. Discontinue use, simplify your routine, and consult a healthcare provider if irritation persists.
Q: Are there affordable alternatives to The Ordinary?
A: Yes, brands such as Cerave and La Roche-Posay offer comparable cleansers and moisturizers. However, The Ordinary remains one of the most cost-efficient options for active serums.
Q: Can The Ordinary help with acne scars?
A: Regular use of niacinamide and azelaic acid can help fade post-acne marks. Always pair active treatments with sunscreen for best results.
Conclusion
A thoughtful skincare routine tailored to teen needs doesn’t have to be expensive or confusing. The Ordinary’s range offers effective, straightforward options for every step: from gentle cleansers, to hydrating serums, to specialized treatments for breakouts. Start simple, be consistent, and adjust as your skin changes. Remember—healthy skin begins with daily care, patience, and sun protection.
References
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