As a parent, it’s essential to start thinking about skincare habits for your kids early on in life. Good skincare habits can and should begin as early as childhood. There are a few key reasons why this is the case.
For one, children’s skin is more sensitive than adult skin. This means it’s more prone to irritation and damage, so it’s important to start instilling healthy skincare habits early. Secondly, kids are constantly growing and changing, so their skin is constantly changing. Establishing good skincare habits will help ensure their skin stays healthy as they grow older.
Finally, some pretty convincing statistics back up the importance of early skincare habits. For example, did you know that 80% of skin aging is caused by sun exposure or how one bad sunburn in childhood doubles a person’s risk of developing melanoma later in life?
There are many good reasons to start thinking about skincare for kids early on in life. By establishing healthy habits now, you can help ensure your child’s skin stays healthy and protected for years to come. Here are a few tips for parents starting their kids on skincare routines.
Sunscreen Should be Top Priority
One of the most important things you can do for your child’s skin is to ensure they’re using sunscreen every day, even if they’re not spending time outdoors. The sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, so it’s essential to take precautions even on cloudy days.
When choosing a sunscreen for your child, be sure to look for one that has an SPF of at least 30 and is water resistant. You should also avoid products with added chemicals or fragrances that irritate sensitive skin.
Be sure to apply sunscreen generously all over your child’s exposed skin, including their hands, neck, face, and ears. Reapply every two hours, especially if they’re swimming or sweating.
Helping Kids Wash Their Face
Depending on your child’s age, you may need to help them with their skincare routine. For younger children, this may mean washing their faces each night. As they get older, you can start teaching them how to wash their face correctly on their own.
When teaching kids how to wash their faces, use a gentle, non-irritating cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps, as they can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. Instead, look for a mild cleanser that’s designed for sensitive skin.
Again, avoiding products with added fragrances or chemicals is essential. You should also avoid scrubbing the skin too harshly, irritating it. Instead, use a gentle circular motion when cleansing the face.
Avoid Using Products with Harsh Chemicals
Adults are not the only ones who need to be careful about using products with harsh chemicals. Children’s skin is even more sensitive, so avoiding using products containing irritants is essential.
This step includes fragrances, dyes, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals. When in doubt, always check the ingredient list before purchasing any product for your child. Other ingredients also include retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids, and benzoyl peroxide. All these ingredients can irritate, so it’s best to avoid them if possible.
If you have any concerns about your child’s skin, it’s always best to consult with their doctor. They can help you determine if any underlying health conditions may be causing skin problems. They can also recommend the best skincare routine for your child based on their individual needs.
Make Skincare a Fun Activity
One of the best ways to get kids excited about skincare is to make it a fun activity. This can be as simple as letting them choose their gentle cleanser or sunscreen. You can also try using fun, kid-friendly terminology when talking about skincare.
For example, instead of saying “sunscreen,” you can say “sun sparkles.” You can also turn to apply sunscreen into a game by having them help you rub it all over your body. Some products also have kid-friendly designs, which can get children invested. You can purchase pimple patches with cute images to make kids look forward to the skincare routine.
Making skincare into a fun activity will help your kids get excited about taking care of their skin but also help them develop good habits that will last a lifetime.
The Bottom Line
As a parent, taking care of your child’s skin is essential. This includes using sunscreen daily, teaching them how to wash their face correctly, and avoiding products with harsh chemicals. You can also make skincare a fun activity by letting them choose their products or using kid-friendly terminology.
If you have any concerns about your child’s skin, be sure to consult with their doctor. They can help you determine if any underlying health conditions may be causing skin problems and recommend the best skincare routine for your child.
