Ask Alexis

Got some thoughts or concerns about teen skin? We put some of our most pressing questions from parents to Dr Alexis Granite, consultant dermatologist and world-renowned expert in medical and aesthetic dermatology.

Here’s the expertise she shared:

Q1 “I’d like to know how long we should ideally allow for products to work? I know with adults it’s suggested that consistent use, about 3 months, but is it the same for teens whose skin seems to regenerate at a quicker rate?”

Alexis:

Skin cell turnover in teens is indeed faster, about 21–28 days compared to 28–40 days in adults. This means they may see results sooner, especially with treatments for acne or congestion.

A general guideline is to give a new skincare product at least 6–8 weeks to appreciate visible results, unless there's irritation or a negative reaction.

For concerns like acne, it may take up to 12 weeks to assess full efficacy. Patience and consistency remain key, even for younger skin types!

Q2 “My thirteen-year-old daughter has a much longer skincare regime than I did at her age, do you think this is a good thing for teens?”

Alexis:

A more involved skincare routine isn't necessarily a bad thing, as long as it's age appropriate.

Teens today are increasingly more informed and interested in self-care. Teenage skin is typically quicker to heal yet also more sensitive and less in need of complex active ingredients than that of an adult.

Overusing products, particularly exfoliants and strong actives such as retinoids and AHAs can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to irritation and/or breakouts. A gentle, consistent routine focused on cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection is usually more than enough at this age.

Having several steps along the way is ok as along as your teen chooses products well suited toher skin type.

Q3 “Is it important that teens only use skincare brands that are specifically designed for younger skin?”

Alexis:

Not necessarily, but it helps to use products designed for younger skin types to reduce the risk of skin barrier disruption and irritation.

What matters most is the formulation - gentle, non-comedogenic, and free from harsh irritants and high concentrations of actives. Brands targeted at teens (like indu!) are often mindful of these needs.

That said, some adult products with simple, barrier-supporting ingredients (such as ceramides, amino acids and hyaluronic acid) can be well tolerated and beneficial too. 

Q4 "My daughter wears face makeup every day, I think it's important to have days without makeup but my daughter doesn't agree. What do you think about this?"

Alexis:

Wearing makeup daily isn't inherently harmful,
but skin does benefit from makeup-free days. Going bare-faced allows the skin to breathe in the sense that it’s free of potential pore-clogging formulations, preservatives, and heavy pigments.

More importantly, what matters is proper makeup removal. If your daughter is cleansing thoroughly every night, she’ll minimise the risk of congestion and irritation.

That said, encouraging makeup-free days
can also support healthy self-image and skin confidence, which is equally important during adolescence.