Skincare Recommendations– What is Good and Bad for Our Skin?
Photo Credit: Bianca Alvarez via NBC
Skincare is more than a beauty routine; it's a vital part of health. Many teens struggle with managing acne, in addition to other skin health concerns. But luckily, a market has emerged to cater to their needs. With so many options to choose from, Hamberites shared their suggestions on which products work best — and which brands to avoid.
Maintaining a successful skincare routine provides more than a one-time boost in self-confidence. A solid skincare routine protects skin against harmful UV rays, reduces the risk of skin conditions such as acne or eczema, and maintains skin hydration and elasticity. All this ensures that skin remains tight on the face, creating a more youthful look.
Isabella Tai (12) emphasizes her love for SKINCARE 1004, which contains Centella Asiatica – a medicinal herb commonly used in traditional medicine – as its main ingredient. Centella Light Cleansing Oil is one of Tai’s favourite products from the award-winning natural skincare brand based in South Korea.
“I think [SKINCARE 1004], is a really good brand everyone,” said Tai, adding that the Olehenriksen Vitamin C Serum – a silky serum that boosts radiance – is another product that is sure to please all.
She advises staying away from common drugstore products containing heavy scents, which could harm the skin.
A serum that Katie Havlesek (12) recommends using is Mixsoon’s Bean Essence — which helps improve overall skin health — and Medicube’s Age-R gel, an ideal hydration solution for those with dry skin.
As for moisturizer, Havlesek uses Rovectin’s lotus-water-based Hydrating Cream, as well as the SoonJung’s Etude Intensive Cream. She uses both products regularly, and finds that they don’t cause breakouts or lead to an overly glowy appearance. Furthermore, she recommends the Vitamin C Boosting Serum by Dr Althea. “It didn't cause breakouts, [and it] hydrates, brightens, and is great all around.”
The Ordinary’s 2% Salicylic Acid is a product Isabella Prior (12) uses to treat acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid works well to treat acne by reducing swelling and redness and unclogging pores. The popular Canadian brand offers medical-grade solutions at affordable prices for teenagers. “It makes my skin hydrated,” Shiloh Lum (12) said. Lum also advocates for The Ordinary, especially the brand’s 2% Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which helps stretch skin and reduce wrinkles.
Prior also suggests Japanese brand Tatcha’s Dewy Skin Cream — a bestselling hydration solution. Although pricey, Prior says the moisturizer leaves skin hydrated and glowy. Her most important piece of advice: “Stay moisturized!”