Why you should care about your skin.

As you hit your teenage years, a heap of things change. Your body, your emotions, your brain - it’s A LOT to deal with.

Although there is a lot you can’t control, looking after yourself is something you can.

One of the best ways to do this is having a solid skincare routine, which also doubles as a wonderful form of self care.

But with a million different products and brands on the market it’s hard to know where to start.

Luckily for our lovely Billie readers, evre founder Maree Glading, has answered the basics so you know exactly why, what and how you can care for your skin.

evre founder Maree Glading.

Firstly, why is it important to care for your skin?

Our skin is our largest organ, it is important for our general health as it is our first layer of defence from the outside world. Having good skin helps improve your appearance, confidence, and overall mood.  Future skin can be dull and full of imperfections if you don’t start caring for it now.

When is the best time to start a skincare routine?

Now - it isn’t ever too early to start!  Future you will thank you, trust me.  The onset of puberty is a crucial time to start looking after your skin as this is when you are more likely to get breakouts and be susceptible to scarring if you don’t look after your skin properly.

Is your skin different when you’re a teenager?

Yes, as we age our skin constantly changes so different ages have different skincare needs.  When you are a teenager acne is more prevalent as it is caused by an influx of hormones which causes oil glands to become overactive, enlarged and produce more sebum (oil).  When there is too much oil the pores become blocked.  Teenage skin can also be more sensitive too.

What kind of products should you start with?

Definitely a gentle cream-based cleanser.  Do not go to bed with a dirty face, even if you didn't wear any makeup or SPF that day it is important to wash off the bacteria and dirt which has built up on your face throughout the day.  You need to wash your face in the morning too as bacteria can build up overnight and it helps to prime your skin for your skincare routine.  We recommend our Oh So Extra Pineapple & Coconut cleanser, it is lovely and gentle and will clean the skin without stripping it.

Using a moisturiser after cleansing is also important, even oily and acne prone skin should moisturise after cleansing as it helps the skin to regulate the oil it is producing.  Our Super Nice Mānuka Honey & Vitamin E moisturiser is great as it is non-comedogenic (non pore clogging), light and nourishing. It contains Mānuka honey which is a natural anti-inflammatory which strengthens and repairs the skin's barrier function.

How should I be using them and in what order should you be using them in?

Each morning you should be cleansing and moisturising and the same at night.  Then you can introduce treatments as required.  We recommend a gentle exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells 1-2 a week.  Then add in a mask depending on your needs – a detoxifying mask if your skin is congested or a hydration mask if your skin is dry.

What ingredients are good for teen skin?

It isn’t so much specific ingredients but formulations you need to look out for.  Anything that is gentle and balancing and avoids harsh essential oils that can aggravate the skin. Also go easy on the acne treatments, they work because they are so strong but in the long run you may do more damage to your skin.  If you use them incorrectly or too much they can dry and irritate your skin and make the situation worse.

Oily, Dry, Combination??? How do I know what my skin is?

If your skin is shiny all over, with large pores and a few blackheads? Then your skin is oily. 

Is your skin looking dull (not glowing), a bit flaky (not smooth)? Your skin is dry

If you are trying hard to find some shine or dry patches but you can’t see anything? Your skin type is normal. Your skin gets enough natural oils to keep it hydrated and protected.

Are your forehead, nose and chin (the T-zone) oily and the rest of your face dry or normal? You have combination. It’s pretty common for younger people.

Have you got any other tips for keeping your skin as gorgeous and glowing as possible?

A lot of the things you can do don’t cost anything!  Drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and maintain skin elasticity – experts say 1.5-2 litres per day. Avoid bacteria multiplying and transferring to your face by keeping your fingers away from your face, sanitise your phone regularly and wash your pillow slips twice a week.  Also don’t forget to wear SPF even when it is overcast!

Another big factor that plays into skin health is stress. Stress and anxiety can have an enormous impact on your skin.  So how do you stop?  You need to make sure you take time for yourself and practice daily self-care.  When it all starts feeling too much, try reading a book, taking a bath, or going for a walk, do what makes you feel connected and grounded.  A lovely self-care practice to do regularly is a skincare treatment.

If your skin isn’t improving and/or you are worried about your skin health, we do recommend that you visit your GP or healthcare professional.