Healthy Skin, Happy School Year

Can you believe summer break has ended? As we swap beach days for backpacks and lunchboxes, now’s a great time to give your kid’s skincare routine a quick refresh. After months of sunscreen, sweat, and snacks, their skin might just be craving a fresh start, plus a little extra care as they settle into the school year. Here are some simple, dermatologist-approved tips to help your kids go back to school feeling fresh, clear, and confident in their skin.

A Simple Skin Routine: No need for complicated products or lengthy steps. 

Just stick to the basics: 

• Wash their face morning and night with a gentle, fragrance-free cleaner. 

• Follow with a light, non-oily moisturizer, yes, even if they have oily skin.

• Sunscreen still matters in fall and winter. A quick layer in the morning keeps skin protected.

Breakouts Are Normal. Nerves about school, changing routines, snack foods, and growing up can cause pimples. 

If your kid gets breakouts: 

1. Use over-the-counter treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for spots. Or a dab of adapalene for the whole face, a few nights a week. 

2. Remind them not to pick, we know it’s tempting! 

3. After sports or sweating, encourage them to rinse or wash their face as soon as they can

Backpack and Sweat Spots Tight collar shirts, shoulder straps, and sweaty gym clothes can lead to pimples and irritation, sometimes called "backne": 

1. Encourage quick showers after sports or hot days. 

2. Choose breathable fabrics, and wash gym clothes often. 

3. A gentle acne body wash, a couple of times a week, can help prevent clogged pores. 

Food and Water: A balanced diet helps keep skin healthy, even in children. 

1. Water is better than juice or soda, always. 

2. Include snacks like carrots, berries, yogurt, and nuts. 

3. Try to limit sugary snacks during the school week. We know they are a source of breakouts. 

Quick Skin Check While you’re booking their physicals or dental visits, take a quick look at their skin, too. If they’ve got persistent rashes, acne, or dry patches that won’t improve, now’s a good time to see a dermatologist.

The Doctor's Orders!

Keep it simple, cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF are all you need. A post-practice shower can 

make a big difference. If a breakout lasts more than a few weeks, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. Note that feeling confident starts with feeling comfortable, and healthy skin helps.