How to look after your children's complexion and skin. From a baby through to puberty

With young children, you are still very much in control of what they want to apply and can easily influence the choice of products. But the minute they gain access to social media and skincare trends, you may quickly find your teens demanding retinol or acid toner. How should you care for your children's skin according to their age?

Newborns and toddlers

Although shopping for products for your beloved baby is certainly very tempting, know that a newborn baby does not need anything at all. Its skin is thinner and more permeable than that of an adult, which is why it is protected by a creamy, waxy film immediately after birth. 

" Ideally, it is therefore best to wait at least twenty-four hours after birth for the first bath and then wash gently," recommends dermatologist Lucie Rajská, MD. And even then, it is enough to bathe once every 2 to 3 days in pure water. On the remaining days, use a damp washcloth or towel nappy to wash and wipe the bottom and all folds. 

"Babies don't need to be moisturised after every bath, just once a week with baby body creams or oils designed specifically for their skin," says the dermatologist.

If your baby develops nappy rash, it is best to wash the bottom with clean water, gently dry it with a soft towel and let it air dry completely. Then apply a layer of anti-rash cream. 

Up to the age of six months you should not expose babies to sunlight. Even thereafter, it's a good idea to use a variety of body suits or T-shirts with UV protection to cover the whole body, and apply SPF cream only on the face. 

Children aged 3-8 years

Even with slightly older babies, there's no need to use loads of product. A mild shower gel or oil formulated for this age group will suffice, and if your baby doesn't have extremely sensitive skin, you can certainly treat them to a bubble bath. You can also add baby hair shampoo and, if necessary, a baby body lotion or face cream. 

If your child struggles with eczema, consult a paediatrician or dermatologist first and try special dermo-cosmetics designed specifically for atopic eczema for moisturising and healing.

Even at such a young age, it is important to consider sun protection. As soon as you go out, don't be afraid to apply sunscreen wherever your child's skin peeks out of their clothes. Use special SPF protection for children and take a hat or cap and sunglasses. 

Children aged 9-11 years

At this age, children are beginning to show an interest in beauty products. Although they are usually not bothered by any skin problems, the influence of social networks is becoming apparent. Teach them to have a skin care ritual that should include morning and evening facial cleansing, hydration and sun protection. 

A gel cleanser or cleansing foam is sufficient for washing the face. "Again, choose mild products that won't dry out the skin unnecessarily, gently dissolve dirt and sebum and leave it clean and hydrated," explains the dermatologist. Choose light, non-comedogenic creams that suit their skin type. Apply an SPF cream in the morning, whether it's warm or cold.

Teens

We are reaching a stage where children are influenced not only by social networks, but also by friends. In addition to hormonal changes, the skin can become greasy and the first pimples begin to appear. Explain to them that everything should be kept in moderation and advise them on appropriate care. Which is it?

Your teens should continue with their chosen routine of cleansing, hydrating and SPF. At the same time, the dermatologist recommends adding products with salicylic or glycolic acid in a mild concentration in the cases of acne problems. They really deep cleanse the skin. If makeup is already on the cards, you also need to think about the perfect evening makeup removal. 

"In boys, it is important to consistently take care not only of the facial skin, but also of the skin on the chest and back, where there is also a lot of oil and acne occurs there," advises dermatologist Lucie Rajská.

In general, it is important not to over-exfoliate the skin, as it tends to compensate for the dryness with further excessive sebum production, which can lead to severe aggravation in acne-prone skin. However, a consultation with a dermatologist is always recommended.

The sooner children learn to systematically care for their skin, the better for them. They will maintain their skin's health and radiance for a lifetime. And that’s exactly what you want!