Short answer is – quite a lot! When you are younger your skin is thinner, it has a higher surface area compared to your body weight (weird to think about, right?!), and your natural skin barrier also isn't fully developed either.  This means skin is more sensitive & means you are more likely to have a bad reaction to stronger products.

 

On the other side, a lot of the time adults use stronger skincare products to make up for these things that their skin is losing over time. For example, a chemical exfoliant will increase cell turnover (this is when the dead skin cells are replaced with new ones) this is useful for adults as cell turnover slows down as we age. There is also something called collagen which keeps our skin looking youthful and plump & these kind of exfoliating products & retinols also helps the skin produce more of it. 

 

So, what does that mean when creating a skincare routine for kids? Well, we'd definitely say avoid those chemical exfoliants (AHA's, BHA's, PHA's) and retinols. Not only are they completely unnecessary, they could cause long term damage. Instead, choose a routine that's simple, creates good, fun and healthy skincare habits, without doing the damage. Think a gentle cleanser, barrier builder serum, and lightweight moisturiser. 

For more info on the types of products to look for, check out another blog of ours which will breakdown which ingredients will work for young skin!