Teenage Acne Skincare Routine in Pakistan: Simple Steps

Pimples are very common in the teen years, driven mainly by puberty, oil production and genes rather than by “dirty skin”. A good teen routine is short: gentle cleanser, light moisturizer, daily sunscreen, and one gentle active added slowly. Painful, deep or scarring acne should be seen by a doctor.

Not sure where to begin? Our guide to choosing an acne serum for oily skin explains what to look for.

Key takeaways

Roughly 85% of people aged 12 to 24 are affected by acne, according to a JAMA review; it is normal, not a personal failing.
Severity tracks puberty, and sunlight or “poor hygiene” were not linked with acne in a systematic review.
Over-washing and scrubbing irritate skin and can make acne worse.
Start with three steps, then add one product at a time.

Why do teenagers get pimples?

At puberty, hormones increase oil production. Pores clog with oil and dead skin cells, which the American Academy of Dermatology identifies as the starting point of acne. A review of acne epidemiology found that moderate-to-severe acne affects about 20% of young people, that severity correlates with pubertal maturity, and that acne often runs in families. Acne may also start earlier now because puberty can start earlier.

What does a simple teen routine look like?

Step	Morning	Evening
1. Cleanse	Rinse or a gentle cleanser	Gentle cleanser, especially after sweat or sports
2. Treat	Skip at first	Add one gentle active two or three nights a week once skin is comfortable
3. Moisturize	Light, oil-free-feeling moisturizer	Light moisturizer
4. Protect	Sunscreen every day	None

See how to choose a face wash for oily skin, moisturizer for oily skin and sunscreen for oily skin.

What should a teen avoid?

Scrubbing and harsh brushes: irritation adds redness and can worsen breakouts.
Washing many times a day: it strips skin and can trigger more oil.
Squeezing pimples: causes marks and scars. See how to deal with a pimple safely.
Stacking products: one active at a time.
Toothpaste, lemon and similar remedies: see our home remedies guide.
Skipping sunscreen: sun can darken pimple marks.

Which actives are suitable for teens?

The 2024 AAD guideline covers acne in adolescents and preadolescents aged 9 years and above. It strongly recommends benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids, with conditional recommendations for salicylic acid and azelaic acid. Many cosmetic acne washes and serums use salicylic acid or niacinamide. For teens, we suggest:

Begin with a gentle cleanser and moisturizer for two weeks.
Add a low-strength salicylic acid or niacinamide product a couple of nights a week.
Ask a pharmacist or doctor before using benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid, and for anything stronger.
Judge results after 6 to 12 weeks.

Parents and teens can read how these ingredients work in our salicylic acid face wash guide and niacinamide serum guide. The Chelure Acne & Oil Control Serum is made for adults; we suggest teens ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it.

What can parents do?

Do not blame or tease; acne is common and affects mood.
Help keep the routine simple and consistent.
Wash pillowcases, towels and sports headgear regularly.
Be ready to book a doctor if acne is painful, deep or spreading.

When should a teenager see a doctor?

Pimples are deep, painful or scarring. See cystic acne.
Acne has not improved after 8 to 12 weeks of gentle care.
Acne is affecting confidence, mood or school.
Acne is on the back and chest as well. See back and chest acne.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I get so many pimples as a teenager?

Puberty raises oil production, and pores clog more easily. Genes also play a big part.

How often should a teenager wash their face?

Twice a day is usually enough, plus after heavy sweating. More often can irritate skin.

What face wash is best for teenage pimples?

A gentle cleanser is a safe start. A salicylic acid wash can help some people; see our guide.

Can teenagers use salicylic acid?

Many teenagers use cosmetic salicylic acid products. Start low, use sparingly and ask a pharmacist or doctor if unsure.

Can teenagers use niacinamide?

Many people tolerate niacinamide, but patch test and ask a doctor if you have sensitive skin or another skin condition.

Does touching my face cause pimples?

Touching does not cause acne by itself, but it adds oil and dirt and tempts picking, so keep hands off.

Will pimples go away after the teen years?

Often they ease, but a review found acne persists into the 20s in about 64% and the 30s in about 43% of people, so adult care matters too.

When should my teen see a dermatologist?

If acne is painful, deep, leaving marks, not improving or affecting their mood, book a visit.

Sources

Eichenfield DZ, Sprague J, Eichenfield LF. Management of acne vulgaris: a review. JAMA, 2021;326(20):2055-2067. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.17633 (PubMed 34812859)
Bhate K, Williams HC. Epidemiology of acne vulgaris. Br J Dermatol, 2013;168(3):474-485. doi:10.1111/bjd.12149 (PubMed 23210645)
Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol, 2024;90(5):1006.e1-1006.e30. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2023.12.017 (PubMed 38300170)
American Academy of Dermatology. Acne: who gets and causes

A gentle reminder

Skincare helps the look and feel of your skin; it does not treat medical conditions. Patch test any new product behind the ear or on the inner arm first, and introduce one new active at a time. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or you have a skin condition such as eczema, ask your doctor before adding active ingredients. See our FAQ for more, or build your own routine.