The age at which a person starts a skin care routine depends on their focus. Sunscreen is the most important part of any skin care routine, and children should wear it when playing outside.

Moreover, as many young children and teens want to use skin care products, it is important for people to learn which ingredients within these products may harm young and sensitive skin.

The four main skin care principles are treatment, cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. However, everyone has different skin concerns, and the products that work for one person may not work for others.

Read on to learn more about the age a person should start a skin care routine.

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The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that an ideal time for a person to start a skin care routine may be in their 20s.

Some beauty websites suggest that the best age to start a skin care routine is 12 years old. However, no scientific research indicates this.

This section discusses what types of skin care products people may consider using depending on their age.

Older children and teens

A skin care routine for older children and teenagers only needs to include cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

The sun, or more specifically, its UV rays, damages the integrity of the skin, so wearing sunscreen is the most important part of any skin care routine at any age.

However, it is important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that the best protection from the sun for children under 6 months is to be in the shade. Sunscreen may not be suitable for infants, as they are at a higher risk of developing side effects.

Products containing potent active ingredients can irritate sensitive and young skin, so a young person should only use products with a limited number of ingredients, for example, gentle cleansers and moisturizers.

Using potent active ingredients on sensitive skin may cause contact dermatitis, as they can disrupt the skin barrier and contribute to skin cell changes. This may include ingredients that help prevent signs of aging, such as retinol.

Young adults

If they have not already, people in their 20s can consider starting or changing their skin care routine and adding additional products if necessary.

People with skin conditions should always check with a doctor before using any new products.

They can start their routine by using a mild cleanser suitable for their skin. For example, if they have acne-prone skin, a cleanser that removes oil would be more suitable than one that hydrates.

Next, they can add a product that addresses any specific skin concerns. For example, products containing vitamin C may help reduce skin aging and sun spots. Products containing retinoids may be suitable for treating acne and addressing fine lines and wrinkles.

After this, they follow up with a moisturizer. During the day, they should add the step of applying sunscreen.

Older adults

Older adults are at an increased risk of some skin conditions, such as dry skin, skin tags, and skin cancer.

As people age, their skin gets thinner and may become drier. Therefore, they may need different types of ointments, lotions, and moisturizers.

Their skin care routine — cleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen, for example — would not necessarily need to change and would likely stay the same.

Very few studies have investigated why children may want to use cosmetics products.

Nevertheless, 2023 research found that children ages 12 years and younger who used cosmetic products designed for children primarily did so because they were playing rather than trying to change their appearance to feel more beautiful.

That said, this study was not nationally representative, so the findings may not apply to all groups of children, and further research is necessary.

The FDA is facing increasing criticism that current safety regulations are inadequate and that children may be using cosmetic products that are likely to cause side effects.

Products labeled “anti-aging” are typically classified as cosmetics, so they are not as heavily regulated as medications. However, some manufacturers make claims that suggest their products should be part of the drug category, not the cosmetic category.

Without evidence and rigorous safety tests, many skin care products and cosmetics use vague terms, such as “hypoallergenic” and “natural.” Therefore, it is difficult to reliably check whether these products work as they claim.

People can speak with their doctor or a dermatologist to learn which products may be most suitable for them and which to avoid.

The types of products a person may want to include or avoid is highly individual. It depends on many factors, such as age, underlying health conditions, and skin sensitivity.

What works well for one person’s skin care routine may not work well for another. For example, some people may be sensitive to ingredients such as fragrances or certain preservatives.

Individuals with skin conditions, such as rosacea, acne, and atopic dermatitis, typically require a personalized skin care plan, which a doctor will oversee. Therefore, anyone with underlying skin conditions should speak with their doctor before trying anything new.

It is important for people to perform patch tests at home before applying any new skin care products. Patch tests can help someone identify products that may irritate their skin.

Doctors may also perform patch tests if they suspect an allergen or irritant may be causing skin symptoms. They will place a small amount of the substance on the skin, cover it, and wait 72 to 96 hours to check whether a reaction occurs.

If any symptoms are present, such as hives or a rash, this suggests the substance in question is the cause.

Scientists have not established an exact age to start a skin care routine. However, people of all ages should take steps to protect their skin from sun damage.

Children and teens should not use anti-aging products as they could damage their skin. It is advisable for young adults to consult a dermatologist if they want to start using anti-aging products.

Anyone with underlying skin conditions should speak with a healthcare professional before using any new products.