Starting a skincare routine early is essential for maintaining healthy skin, especially during the teenage years when the skin undergoes significant changes due to puberty. Hormonal shifts increase oil production, making the skin more prone to acne, blackheads, and other skin issues. Establishing good skincare habits now can help prevent these problems and maintain skin health in the long run. This article will explore a pharmacist-approved skincare routine specifically designed for teens. We'll also discuss common concerns like oily skin and acne, which many teenagers experience, and how to manage them effectively. Additionally, we’ll highlight key ingredients to look for in skincare products and offer tips on when it might be necessary to seek professional advice from a dermatologist or pharmacist. Understanding Teenage Skin During the teenage years, the skin undergoes many changes due to the body’s increase in hormone production. These hormones, particularly androgens, stimulate the sebaceous (oil) glands, causing them to produce more oil (sebum). This excess oil can lead to clogged pores, often the starting point for acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. Acne is one of teenagers' most common skin concerns, affecting about 80% of teens to some degree. Additionally, teenage skin can be sensitive and more reactive, making choosing the right skincare products crucial. Harsh products or over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to irritation and making acne worse. Oily skin is common among teens, but many also experience combination skin, where some areas are oily while others are dry. Understanding your skin type is essential to develop a routine that helps balance oil production without irritating. While genetics play a role in determining skin type, other factors like diet, stress, and hygiene can also influence how your skin behaves during these years. Establishing a skincare routine that addresses these factors can help manage teenage skin more effectively and set the foundation for healthy skin in the future.

What Is Hyperpigmentation? Hyperpigmentation means having dark patches on your skin. This happens when your skin makes too much melanin, which is the pigment that gives your skin, hair, and eyes their color. Anyone can get dark patches, no matter their skin color. While these patches are usually not dangerous, they can make people feel self-conscious and want to find ways to even out their skin tone. What Causes Hyperpigmentation? There are several reasons why dark patches can appear: Spending a lot of time in the sun Changes in hormones (like during pregnancy) Skin injuries, such as cuts, burns, or acne Some common types of hyperpigmentation are melasma (often called the “mask of pregnancy”), sun spots, and dark spots that appear after the skin heals from an injury. Where Does Hyperpigmentation Show Up? Dark patches can show up on your face, hands, neck, and back. Many people get them on their forehead, cheeks, or upper lip. People with any skin color can get hyperpigmentation.

Sunscreen is very important for keeping your skin healthy. It protects your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can cause sunburn, make your skin age faster, and even lead to skin cancer. Studies show that using sunscreen regularly can lower your risk of getting skin cancer by up to 50%. Sunscreen acts like a shield, blocking both UVA and UVB rays, which can damage your skin in different ways. You should use sunscreen every day, no matter the weather. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin. For the best protection, choose a sunscreen with “broad-spectrum” on the label and an SPF of 30 or higher. This helps keep your skin healthy and looking young.

Why Knowing Your Skin Type Matters Knowing your skin type is the first step to having healthy skin. Many people use products that aren't right for them, which can cause breakouts, irritation, or dryness. When you understand your skin type, you can choose the right products that keep your skin balanced and healthy. There are five main skin types: normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Each type needs different care. Using the wrong products can make skin problems worse. In this article, we'll help you figure out your skin type and share tips to keep your skin looking great. The Five Skin Types Here's how to identify which skin type you have: 1. Normal Skin Normal skin has a good balance of oil and moisture with few problems. The pores aren't too big, and the skin feels smooth. People with normal skin don't usually have much oiliness or dryness and can follow a simple skincare routine. 2. Oily Skin Oily skin makes more oil than needed. This can make your face look shiny, with larger pores, and you might get more blackheads or pimples. Oily skin needs products that control oil without drying out your skin too much. 3. Dry Skin Dry skin doesn't have enough moisture. It can feel tight or flaky, especially after washing. You might notice rough patches or redness. People with dry skin need products with lots of moisture, like creams and oils. 4. Combination Skin Combination skin has both oily and dry areas. Usually, the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) is oily, while the cheeks are drier. You need to balance these areas with products that add moisture to dry spots without clogging pores in oily areas. 5. Sensitive Skin Sensitive skin gets irritated easily. It may turn red quickly from skincare products, harsh weather, or even certain foods. If you have sensitive skin, look for gentle products without added scents. Simple Test: To help figure out your skin type, wash your face with a mild soap, wait an hour without putting anything on your skin, and see how it feels. Common Skin Myths Here are some wrong ideas about skin that many people believe: Myth: "I have oily skin because I get breakouts." Many people think only oily skin gets pimples, but dry skin can break out too. When skin is too dry, it might make extra oil to fix the problem, which can clog pores. Use a gentle cleanser and don't skip moisturizer. Myth: "Oily skin doesn't need moisturizer." Skipping moisturizer can actually make oily skin worse. When your skin feels dry, it makes even more oil. Choose light, oil-free moisturizers that won't clog your pores. Myth: "Combination skin needs different products for each area." While it seems like you should use different products for dry and oily areas, most people with combination skin can use the same products everywhere. Look for products made for combination skin that control oil in the T-zone while adding moisture to dry areas.

25 Health & Beauty Q&As Here is a breakdown of questions you asked, about health and beauty, answered by our dermatology specialist. 1. What is the best skincare routine for dry skin? Various factors, such as environment, genetics, or certain skin conditions, can cause dry skin. A good routine for dry skin focuses on hydration and skin protection. We suggest a simple yet complete approach, including a cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen for the daytime and a night routine that includes a cleanser, moisturizer and face oil. Some additional tips include using a humidifier in your room to maintain moisture in the air and using a large bottle of water to ensure optimal hydration throughout the day. 2. How do you achieve the glass skin look? To achieve the “glass skin” look, we recommend following a healthy lifestyle and consistently keeping up a skincare routine that gives you an intensely hydrated complexion. This routine typically involves double cleansing, exfoliation, toning, essence, moisturizer and sunscreen. Some optional treatments would include applying sheet masks up to 3 times a week for an extra boost of hydration. 3. Is sunscreen essential, and why? Yes, sunscreen is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. It helps protect against harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. It's essential to apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. 4. How can you treat acne and anxiety-induced flare-ups with skincare? To treat acne and anxiety-induced flare-ups with skincare, I recommend using gentle cleansers and moisturisers that are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. Also, incorporate calming ingredients like aloe vera or green tea into your skincare routine for relief benefits. 5. Can consuming a lot of caffeine cause lousy skin? Caffeine can be both beneficial and harmful for the skin. Some positive effects include anti-oxidant properties and improved circulation. Some adverse effects include dehydration and increasing the stress hormone in the body. 6. How do you apply retinol? Retinol is applied as the second step in your night skincare routine. After gently cleansing the skin, apply a small amount of retinol evenly on the skin, then seal with a hydrating moisturizer. It is essential to start slowly with retinol. We recommend starting with 0.25% for new users. 7. Can I use retinol in my 20s? While It may be too early to start, it depends on your skin type and is specific to your concerns and goals. Please consult a dermatologist to tailor your retinol use. 8. What will help tighten your skin? It can be approached from both products and professional treatments. Some of the recommended products include peptides, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C ingredients. Some of the professional methods we recommend include laser therapy, radiofrequency, and ultrasound therapy. Some at-home remedies, including masks and facial massages, can contribute to better circulation and more collagen production. 9. Can vitamin C irritate my skin? Should I use it in the morning or night? It depends on your skin type and the concentration of vitamin C used. You should not use Vitamin C combined with other actives, such as retinoids, exfoliating acids, or benzoyl peroxide, as that can lead to skin sensitivity and irritation. 10. Are alcohols bad to use on the skin? It depends on the type of alcohol ingredient in the skincare product. Please consult your dermatologist for personalized advice and always patch-test the product before use. 11. What are the best vitamins for glowing skin? To achieve radiant skin, focusing on several vitamins can play a critical role in your skin’s health and radiance. Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K Vitamin C Benefits - Boosts immunity, helps collagen production, and enhances iron absorption. Sources - Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli. Food vs supplements - Better absorbed from food, but supplements help if dietary intake is insufficient. Vitamin E Benefits - Antioxidant, supports skin and immune health. Sources - Nuts, seeds, spinach, vegetable oils. Food vs supplements - Prefer food for better absorption; high-dose supplements can interfere with clotting. Vitamin A Benefits - Supports vision, immunity, and skin health. Sources - Liver, dairy (retinol); carrots, sweet potatoes (beta-carotene). Food vs supplements - Prefer beta-carotene foods to avoid toxicity; supplements only if deficient. Vitamin D Benefits - Supports bone health and immune function. Sources - Sunlight, fatty fish, fortified foods, egg yolks. Food vs supplements - Hard to get from food; supplements often needed, especially in low sunlight areas. Vitamin K Benefits - Essential for blood clotting and bone health. Sources - Leafy greens, broccoli, fermented foods. Food vs Supplements - Easily obtained from food; supplements rarely needed unless deficient. 12. How to get rid of hormonal acne? There are multiple ways you could approach getting rid of hormonal acne. We recommend you first focus on lifestyle changes, including managing your diet, sleep and stress levels.  Second, implement a skincare routine and be consistent with it. Third, you could consult a dermatologist if the case persists. Finally, you could try topical treatments, including retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, etc. 13. How can you prevent skin from aging? To prevent skin aging, you could implement multiple strategies in your lifestyle choices and skincare routine to maintain skin health and avoid skin issues that may arise with age. Use sunscreen consistently. Follow a healthy diet and limit sugar intake. Implement healthy habits avoid alcohol avoid smoking and get 8+ hours of sleep per night. Manage stress levels. Regular dermatologist visits for specific advice tailored to your concerns. 14. What are the best products for dark circles under the eyes? There are many products you can use for dark under-eye circles. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and caffeine in under-eye creams can offer instant benefits and enhance the darkness immediately upon use. If darkness persists with consistent use of products, we recommend checking your lifestyle routine and consulting a dermatologist. 15. Is there a DIY treatment for blemishes? To create any DIY treatment that targets blemishes on the skin, you would have to make a concoction that reduces inflammation, kills bacteria and promotes healing. Please note that it is essential to patch-test them on a small skin area before the entire application. 16. Is my skin dry or just dehydrated? The difference between dry and dehydrated skin can be determined by learning the characteristics of both types and considering a few tests, such as the pinch test. If unsure, visit a dermatologist to help diagnose your skin and recommend the best treatment tailored to your concern. 17. Should my skincare lineup change from AM to PM? It depends on what you are trying to target and your goal. Here are key questions you can ask yourself to determine if your skincare lineup should change from AM to PM: What are my skincare goals? Are you focusing on hydration, anti-aging, acne, or protection from environmental damage? How does my skin behave throughout the day? Does it get oily, dry, or sensitive during different parts of the day? Do I need sun protection at night? Sunscreens are vital during the day but unnecessary in the evening. Am I using products that target different concerns for day vs night? Antioxidants (like Vitamin C) protect during the day, while retinoids or exfoliants work better at night for repair. How sensitive is my skin to certain ingredients? Some active ingredients (like retinoids or AHAs) can make your skin more sun-sensitive, so they're better used at night. What kind of environment am I in during the day? Do you need more protection from pollutants and UV in the morning compared to the evening when your skin can recover? How much time can I dedicate to skincare in the morning vs the evening? Does your schedule allow for a more intensive routine at night, or do you need something simpler for the AM? Answering these questions will help tailor your routine to your specific daily and night needs. 18. What do you recommend for sensitive skin? A few recommendations for sensitive skin include the following: using only gentle products, avoiding alcohol-based products and always doing a patch test on a small area of the skin of any new products before application to ensure they don’t irritate you. 19. Do you recommend taking skin supplements? It depends on your specific deficiencies and overall health needs. Both supplements and natural intake of vitamins and minerals are effective ways to provide your skin with the necessary needs. 20. How to fix an uneven skin tone? To successfully address uneven skin tone, you need to approach the following: Use sunscreen consistently. Gently exfoliate your skin 3-4 times per week.  Follow a healthy lifestyle. Consider hydroquinone. Consult a dermatologist for specific advice and a tailored approach to uneven skin tone. 21. How do I find out my skin type? Understanding your skin type will help you take care of it and choose the right products and routines that will allow you to maintain it and get the best results. Ask your dermatologist about your skin type. 22. Should I wear sunscreen indoors? Whether you need sunscreen indoors depends on the environment you’re spending your day in. If you are subjected to light through windows or screens for long periods, then yes, wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 25 indoors will be beneficial and prevent the harm and effects of UV radiation on your skin and overall health. 23. How should I layer my skincare products? For your skincare routine to be effective and achieve the maximum benefits and results, we advise you to layer it as follows, allowing absorption time before applying the next. Step 1 - Cleanser. Step 2 - Toner. Step 3 - Serum. Step 4 - Moisturizer. Step 5 - Sunscreen. Please be aware that combining or layering active ingredients (such as retinoids and vitamin C or AHA/BHA acids or niacinamide) can irritate when used together. 24. How to control oil production on the face? Some effective methods you could implement include: opting for gentle cleansers, regular exfoliation, opting for oil-free or water/gel-based products, and incorporating mattifying products if needed. Consuming a healthy diet of natural foods can help overall skin condition and health. 25. How effective are facial laser treatments? It varies from one individual to another, but in general, facial laser treatments are considered highly effective for multiple concerns, including acne, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Consult your dermatologist for a suitable treatment.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that causes a range of symptoms in women of reproductive age. Acne is a related condition affecting up to 30% of PCOS sufferers, which on top of other PCOS-related symptoms, adds to a feeling of anguish and low self-confidence.

Chicken skin, also known as keratosis pilaris, is a very common skin condition, where the skin gets bumpy and red, resembling chicken skin or goosebumps. It typically occurs on the upper outer arms and thighs, where hair follicles get blocked with pockets of keratin, a thick tough substance that helps to protect the skin. Bumps can be red, gray or flesh colored, and skin feels rough, dry and sometimes itchy. This condition affects up to half of the population, running in families and appearing most commonly in adolescence, with improvement usually in adulthood. It is completely harmless, but people become concerned with the appearance.

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is common among children but anyone can catch it at any age, but you can only catch it once. When adults get it, the symptoms are usually worse. Chickenpox virus spreads in the same way as those responsible for colds, flu and other infectious diseases. The virus is contained within droplets of mucus and saliva which are released into the air via coughing or sneezing. These droplets also fall onto objects and surfaces which, when touched, enable the virus to be easily transferred to another person. You only need to be in the same space with an infected person for a short period of time for this virus to spread to you. It's a very contagious infection - about 90% of people who have not previously had chickenpox will become infected when they come into contact with the virus. There is an incubation period of 7 to 21 days before the symptoms of chickenpox appear. Chickenpox can be caught from someone with shingles but not vice versa.

Creams, ointments, and gels are all effective in treating skin conditions, but each one differs in its specific properties. Individually, they can treat a specific type of condition particularly effectively. In this article, we will explain some of the properties each one has and why it can be beneficial in certain situations.

Although most bathers enjoy and use hot tubs without encountering any problems, many people experience an itchy and painful skin condition called hot tub rash or folliculitis. Folliculitis is when the hair follicles that cover areas of our skin surface become inflamed or infected. In day-to-day life, the most common occurrence of this is in relation to shaving, affecting men most often on the face and women in areas they wish to have hair removed from, especially around the bikini line. Another cause is prolonged submersion in jacuzzis or hot tubs. The warmth, coupled with the high oxygen content of the water, creates optimum conditions for bacteria and funguses to grow. Furthermore, the frequent change of visitors into the tubs and relatively infrequent changing of the water leads to a hot tub that is teaming with bacteria.

We have all had that important date on the calendar coming up, and a day or so before, what happens – our skin breaks out. Many different things in our day-to-day life can affect how our skin reacts. Some in the short term and others over the long term. Here the Healthwords medical team takes a look at some of these lifestyle factors in detail that can contribute to changes in your skin.

Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that typically starts off as red areas of skin, perhaps 1/2 to 1 inch wide, with a slightly raised, dry and flaky surface. It most often affects knees, elbows, lower back and around the hairline, but it can appear anywhere including in the body flexures such as the armpits or groin. It may be a little itchy, especially if the scalp is affected, but is not usually painful.