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Gen A-Z Skin School

This guide provides essential skincare advice for pre-teens and teens, focusing on nurturing young skin and building self-esteem. It addresses common skin situations, debunks myths, and emphasizes the importance of a simple skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. The document aims to create a safe and inclusive beauty space, empowering young individuals to make informed decisions about their skincare.

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ariadna12.blanco
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
50 views37 pages

Gen A-Z Skin School

This guide provides essential skincare advice for pre-teens and teens, focusing on nurturing young skin and building self-esteem. It addresses common skin situations, debunks myths, and emphasizes the importance of a simple skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. The document aims to create a safe and inclusive beauty space, empowering young individuals to make informed decisions about their skincare.

Uploaded by

ariadna12.blanco
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 37

BERNICE/ YEAR10, LADY ELEANOR HOLLES SCHOOL

1. Acknowledgements

2. What You Can Expect From This Guide

3. Three Non-negotiables For Young Skin

4. Skin Situations: Top Tips & What to Skip

5. What’s Your Beauty Persona? Take Our Quiz to Find Out!

6. Clearing Up Common Skintok Myths

7. Your Burning Beauty Questions Answered

8. Ingredient Glossary: Know Your Skincare Superstars

9. Additional Resources
Acknowledgements
Founded in response to Everyone’s Invited – a scandal that revealed alarming
truths about attitudes towards sex and consent amongst young people – The
Respect Project offers data-driven support on key issues across three pillars
affecting Generation Alpha and young adults: Self-Respect, Sexual Respect
and Social Respect. Established by Chloe Combi – a leading generational
expert – her work addresses critical topics, from online safety to health and
body-image concerns.

Existing to empower and engage all those who touch the beauty industry, The
British Beauty Council works to create a more inclusive, progressive place.
Providing support and advice on all manner of topics – from equity
and inclusion to advertorial integrity – their invaluable work shapes a positive,
representative beauty landscape. Cult Beauty are patrons of the British Beauty
Council and we are proud to have their support on this ongoing project.

Kelly Saynor is a aesthetic nurse, independent prescriber, and Clinical


Director with over 20 years of medical experience. After starting her career
in paediatrics, she transitioned into cosmetic surgery, training with the Royal
Society of Medicine and earning a reputation as both a ‘skin geek’ and a
compassionate practitioner. In 2014, she founded Medica Forte, which now
supports over 1,500 clinics with four leading brands, including The Perfect
Peel®, Vistylus, The Fertility Pharmacy, and Glutaceuticals®—a skincare
range she developed to improve skin health at a cellular level. Kelly also leads
Renew, her Cheshire-based aesthetic clinic.
The meaning behind

i n a n a m e ?
Whats
Generation Alpha, the first cohort to be born entirely in the 21st century,
takes its name from the first letter of the Greek alphabet. As the torch
passes from Gen Z to Alpha, you ignite a new era – one defined by new
voices, new ideas, new innovations and new attitudes to beauty in an
ever-shifting digital landscape. This guide not only maps out the A-Z of
skincare for pre-teens, teens and their parents; it positively celebrates
the dynamic energy and potential of these trailblazing generations
combined.
Busting Myths, Embracing Healthy
Habits, and Building Confidence
What You Can Expect From This Guide.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by skincare. With filters, fads and questionable
hacks, we’re navigating beauty through the lens of social media and its endless
pursuit of unattainable perfection.

A recent beauty report revealed that while Gen Z began experimenting with
skincare at 13, Gen Alpha has eclipsed them by five years – starting at an average
age of eight1. Yet very few are accessing information that is age-appropriate,
accurate and trustworthy.

We’re dedicated to creating a safe beauty space that is defined by you. Beauty is
for everyone, all faces, all ages. Our Can’t (Re)Touch This campaign marked the
first phase in our mission to shatter stereotypes and shape a more transparent
and inclusive industry. It’s both a policy to never retouch our in-house model
imagery, and a petition to the Government to regulate the authenticity of what we
view online. We want you to see real skin – unfiltered and un-photoshopped – and
read advice that is reliable, empowering and grounded in facts.

ADVICE, ACTIONS & ANSWERS


That’s why we’ve created a no-nonsense guide to help parents, preteens and
teens grasp the complexities of skincare and make educated decisions that nurture
developing skin and self-esteem. Inside, we cover the A-Z of skincare: debunking
common beauty myths, managing breakouts, shaving tips and building an affordable
beauty routine that cherishes your skin with confidence.

At Cult, we celebrate the beauty of being human – the dimples, the pimples, the wide
eyes, the laugh lines, and all the unique features that make up your individuality.

“Today you are you, that is truer than true.


There is no one alive who is youer than you.”
Dr. Seuss

1. Source(s): Ulta Beauty Future Proprietary Research, 2023 and Ulta Beauty: Beauty and Younger Generations Prietary Research, 2024
Three non-negotiables
for young skin
The clue’s in the name: skincare is all about care. It’s about
nourishing, protecting, respecting. Too many active ingredients
can weaken the important defences that keep your skin healthy.
The focus should be simple: cleansing, balancing and bolstering
your skin’s barrier.

Here’s an effective, easy-to-follow routine designed by leading


skincare experts, brand founders and dermatologists.

dry
Is your skin ? Here's how to tell
or dehydrated an d is caus
ed by a la
ck of sebu
m

be ge ne tic yo ne
tends to n affect an
Dry skin d skin ca estyle an
d
ehydrate
in ’s surface. D is ca used by lif
on th e sk
D eh yd rated sk in
er or ex posure to
in types. gh wat skin
and all sk king enou sture and
e not drin ck of moi
factors, lik ed by a la
external char ac te ris
oning. It’s
air conditi d dry.
fe el tig ht, itchy an
may
s Grani te
- Dr. Alexi
Before All Else, Let’s Crack
The Code Of Your Skin Type!
Neither too oily or too dry, balanced skin maintains a healthy
Balanced equilibrium. When everything’s in sync, skin looks smooth and
feels comfortable with a naturally dewy appearance and minimal
sensitivity.

If your skin frequently feels a little tight, rough, or flaky – especially


after washing your face – it’s usually a sign of dry skin. During
colder months, when the air strips skin of its moisture, you may
Dry notice these symptoms are more pronounced, with heightened
sensitivity. Central heating, hot showers and harsh cleansers are
also common culprits when it comes to exacerbating dryness.

Oily skin occurs when sebum production (the natural oils


produced by glands in the skin) is operating on overdrive,
leading to enlarged pores, breakouts and a shiny appearance
Oily – particularly in the T-zone. When sebum mixes with dead skin
cells, it can clog your pores and trap oil, causing whiteheads and
blackheads to pop up.
Step 1: Cleanse
Cleansing is the cornerstone of any good skincare routine – and we don’t mean a quick
once-over with a wipe (they’re not great for your skin, or the planet). The purpose of
cleansing is to lift impurities from the skin’s surface without disrupting its natural barrier.
So, take your time to invest in a cleanser that suits your skin’s needs: it might be a gentle
foaming formula, a milk to maintain balance, or a nourishing balm that melts away make
up and sunscreen.

THE INKEY LIST


Oat Cleansing Balm £12.00

BYOMA
Milky Moisture Cleanser £13.99

for balanced skin


FRESH
Soy Face Cleanser £15.00

for dry skin


VERSED
The Purist Antioxidant Cleanser £13.50

KIEHL’S AVENE
Ultra Facial Cleanser £15.00 Cleansing Gel £15.50

GOOD LIGHT
Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser
£17.00

LA ROCHE-POSAY
Effaclar H Cleanser £24.00
CERAVE
Foaming Cleanser £12.50

sk in
for Oily
YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE
Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream £45.00
THE ORDINARY
Natural Moisturising Factors + PhytoCeramides £20.00

THE INKEY LIST


Omega Water Cream £11.00

l a n c ed s kin
fo r b a
FIG.1
Ceramide Moisturiser £32.00

for dry skin

COMMUNITY SIXTY SIX


Oil Control Moisturiser £20.00

CAUDALIE
Vino Hydra Sobert Cream £20.00

KRAVE BEAUTY
Oat So Simple Water Cream £28.00

PAULA’S CHOICE
Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid £39.00
for Oily skin

VERSED
Dew Point Moisturising Gel-Cream £13.50

Step 2: Moisturise
All skin – even oily, blemish-prone skin – needs daily moisture. Some moisturisers are
rich, while others are lightweight and typically absorb much faster into the skin. If you find
your skin changes throughout the months or with the seasons, you can switch between
lighter (oil-free) and thicker (ceramide-enriched) formulas as needed.
Step 3: Protect
SPF SPF SPF. We’re insistent about this so no excuses. UV rays significantly accelerate
the deterioration of skin’s elasticity – also known as ‘photoaging’ – so consistent daily use
of sunscreen is the best defence. After all, prevention is better than cure.

INNIS FREE
Daily UV Defence Sunscreen £17.00

LA ROCHE-POSAY
Anthelios UVmune 400 50+ £22.00

skin
for balanced ULTRA VIOLETTE
Lean Screen Mineral Mattifying Skinscreen £34.00

SUPERGOOP
PLAY Everyday Lotion £23.00

ULTRA VIOLETTE
Fave Fluid Ultralight Skinscreen £37.00

for dry skin HELLO SUNDAY


£22.00
The Matte One SPF50

BYOMA
Ultralight Face Fluid SPF50 £14.99

THANK YOU FARMER


Water Sun Cream £28.00

for Oily sk ULTRA VIOLETTE


Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial £34.00

in
How much SPF should I apply?
The right amount of SPF typically equals the length of your index and middle fingers
combined. This visual works well for lightweight formulas, though you might need a bit
less for richer textures. Be sure to cover your entire face – including your eyelids, lips, the
tops of your ears, and neck – for full protection. - Dr. Kelly Saynor

“You should generally t


of a dessert spo hink
o
applying SPF to y n amount when
But if you need mour face.
ore, go for it!”

Exfoliants:
Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week (preferably with a PHA or mild BHA) helps
prevent clogged pores, refine skin texture, and improve tone. Avoid harsh physical
scrubs, as they can tear your skin and increase sensitivity.

PHA = POLYHYDROXY ACID


THE INKEY LIST
PHA Toner £13.00 WHO SHOULD USE IT:
PHAs work their powers on the skin’s surface to not
disturb the delicate layers that lie beneath. However,
they are still a chemical exfoliant, so always start with
a low concentration and monitor skin for any adverse
reactions.

HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE IT:


To start, try using PHAs three times a week.
You can use it in the form of a toner, a face wash, or
even a serum.

COSRX
WORKS WELL WITH:
£26.00
BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Other acids in low concentrations.
Skin Situations:
Top Tips & What to Skip
1. Managing Blemishes: Cult Top Tip:
Blemishes can affect people with all skin • Morning and night use a gentle, non-
types, not just oily. Hormonal changes, comedogenic cleanser that won’t strip
your skin.
stress, diet, and skincare habits all play a • Look for spot treatments with benzoyl
role in those unwelcome breakouts. peroxide or salicylic acid. Apply them
directly to pimples for best results.
• Apply a calming face mask or soothing
moisturiser with ingredients like
THE INKEY LIST
niacinamide, green tea or aloe vera if your
Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches skin feels sensitive or stressed.

What to Skip:
• Resist overwashing your face – this can strip away your
skin’s natural oils, prompting your skin to produce even
more oil in response.
• Avoid touching your face frequently or picking at
blemishes. This could introduce more bacteria and lead
to scarring.
COSRX
Clear Fit Master Patch
g following
prone to scarrin
es can be more natural
Darker skin ton trat ion of melanin – the
cen
to a higher con omes irritated
from
breakouts due Wh en skin bec
es skin colour. the
pigment that giv duc ing exc ess pigment in
y respond by pro
a blemish, it ma heals.
k spo ts onc e the blemish
resulting in dar
affected area,

2.Hormonal Breakouts:
Hormonal acne or pimples often appear around the jawline
or chin. During puberty, your body undergoes hormonal
changes, which can trigger oil production, spots or acne.
Cult Top Tip:
• Be consistent and respectful. Look for gentle
formulas with ingredients like with salicylic acid
and niacinamide to soothe redness and help
unclog pores.
• Be patient – hormonal acne can take longer to
What to Skip:
clear if it’s tied to your menstrual cycle. • Stop before popping! This can force blemish-causing bacteria to spread deeper
• Don’t be scared to seek professional guidance. within the skin and provoke swelling, forming a larger, more noticeable blemish.
Dermatologists or licensed skincare professionals
• Inviting negative self-talk to take control and determine your day. Think of
can offer you tailored advice.
blemishes as just mini stepping stones from your teenage years to adulthood.
Hush your inner critic and acknowledge your achievements
with pride.
3. Shaving and Irritation: Cult Top Tip:
• Shaving over broken skin. If you’re
If you’ve just started shaving, you might experience experiencing bumps or redness, wait for the skin
to calm down before shaving again.
irritation, redness, or even razor bumps. Here’s
• Too much pressure will irritate the skin and
what to do (and not do) to prevent discomfort: lead to cuts. A light hand is just enough to get
Ingrown hairs develop when a hair removed the job done and remember to always follow the
grain of your hair.
through shaving, tweezing, or waxing grows back • Dry shaving increases friction on the skin,
but, instead of growing through the skin, it curls meaning razor burns, redness and micro-cuts.
back on itself which results in raised and itchy A good shaving cream is essential for a smooth
and stress-free glide.
bumps. In more stubborn or recurring cases,
professional help may be needed.

What to skip:
• Shaving over broken skin. If you’re experiencing bumps or redness, wait
for the skin to calm down before shaving again.
• Excessive pressure will irritate the skin and lead to cuts.
A light hand is just enough to get the job done and remember to always
follow the grain of your hair.
• Dry shaving – this will create more friction and lead to razor burns. Always
apply shaving cream first and opt for a gentle moisturiser to replenish
the skin.

Non-comedogenic –

what should I know?


Non-comedogenic products are specially formulated
without ingredients that could potentially clog your pores,
helping to prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming.
Lightweight and often oil-free, they work by cleaning out
excess oil, dirt and dead skin cells from blocked pores to
balance and clear the complexion.

Pre-period Skin
Your skin may misbehave a little before your
Pimples vs acne:
period due to hormonal fluctuations. Clinically
known as the ‘luteal phase,’ a spike in the
what’s the difference?
hormone progesterone can lead to oilier, A blemish is a common, individual spot that forms when pores become
more congested skin, resulting in blackheads, clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

blemishes, and excess shine. Acne, in comparison, refers to a broader, more persistent skin condition that involves
multiple spots and is often triggered by hormonal changes, genetics, and bacteria.
‘Acne’ is a medical term and there are many different types. If you think you may be
experiencing acne, be sure to consult a licensed skincare professional.
Skincare Truths & Self-love wisdom
21-year-old content creator Miah Carter
warmly refers to herself as your, “self-love
big sister.” And, much in the spirit of an astute
older sibling, her honest, empowering message
of self-acceptance has inspired all 3.3M of her
TikTok followers to find comfort in their curves,
beauty in every bump and pride in their path to
self-belief. Her philosophy is simple, yet profound:
confidence is the best dress to slip on each morning.

OLE HENRIKSEN
Peptine Boost Moisturiser £42.00

M i a h C a r t e r

CERAVE
Facial Moisturisng Lotion £16.50 THE INKEY LIST
£12.00
Oat Cleansing Balm
“I wish I'd known when I was younger that patience
is essential and that skin needs time to heal.
My hyperpigmentation and scars once made me
self-conscious, but consistency changed everything.
Must do’s:
SPF daily, gentle skincare, hydration
Avoid:
Picking spots, harsh products, comparing yourself.
Your skin doesn’t define you; confidence comes from
within. You are more than your reflection.”
Skincare, Self-worth and
Empowering Life Lessons for Her
Teenage Daughter (and you!)
Writer, creator, and mum-of-two, Louise
Pentland, has been rightfully crowned
YouTube royalty. One of the platform’s first
stars, she pushed the parameters of
beauty blogging to share – with unguarded
intimacy – her candid reflections on mental
health and the realities of modern motherhood.
Now the author of five bestselling books,
Pentland remains a fairy godmother-like figure
to her 3.7M Instagram followers, standing by
the belief that growth isn’t linear; neither is
beauty a duck-to-swan moment of magic –
true confidence glitters when we embrace
the spectrum of our emotions and
intentionally invest in ourselves.
Louise Pentland
Three Avoids You are SO MU
1. Avoid wearing make up every day,
your skin needs to breathe! than your wra CH MORE
2. Don’t over-use make up wipes. pping paper.
3. Never compare yourself to
airbrushed media.
<3 xxx
Three Encouragements
1. Moisturise your face every morning.
2. Read trusted reviews of anything you
use on your skin.
3. Use SPF, even when we’re not on
holiday!
“ My Mum passed away when I was seven, so
I didn’t have a female role model at home. I had
no idea how to take care of my skin, so it’s been
a real joy to teach my daughter, Darcy, now that
she's a young teenager.I have naturally very rosy
skin, and as a teen, I was extremely self-conscious.
I thought I looked like a tomato and would flush
bright red if anyone mentioned it.I used
foundation to cover it up, but without skincare, my
skin was often dry and cakey.”
“It wasn’t until later that I understood good
skincare is the foundation of everything.
I started with day creams, moved to eye creams,
and switched from face wipes to a cleansing balm.
Simply put, looking after my skin is a
non-negotiable in my life now.”
Play The Personas Quiz!
If you flit and flutter across social feeds or prefer to soak up some offline bliss with
a cocooning bubble bath and a good book, take our quiz to reveal your beauty
persona below.

Click here to
find out
which persona
you are... The Personas Quiz

Skintellectual
A fount of beauty knowledge, you seek them out
to answer all your skincare FAQs (and get an
unexpected lesson on why moisturiser is a non-
negotiable). They know the ins and outs of all the
formulas you’ve read about – never one to skip their
cleansing routine.

Pampering Pro
Mastered the art of self-care and magicking everyday
moments into a mini spa experience. They delight in
pamper nights, pastels, and Pilates sets that perfectly
match their lip gloss. Green juice in hand and a fresh
pedicure on the agenda, they’re all about relishing the
little joys – a cancelled plan? Pure bliss.
Trailblazer
Never one for beauty-by-numbers, their
individualistic, fiercely independent attitude cuts
through the clamour of fads, ads, and fleeting trends.
Valuing ‘vibes’ over flashy luxury, they follow the
creative beat of their own heart – always attracted to
the niche, raw and authentic.
Social Butterfly
Streets ahead of the trends, they haunt their social
feeds to guarantee they’re in the know. Thrilled by the
new, the bold, and the innovative – never one to miss a
viral moment.

Mindful Maverick

Holds a magnifying glass up to climate


commitments and conscious claims. Advocating
for natural, plant-powered formulas and ethical
practices, they probe beauty’s big buzzwords to
uncover true transparency and curate a routine
Minimalist
that’s both kind to the skin and Earth.
Serves a less-is-more approach to looking good
and feeling better. Disciples of ‘the simple life’, they
find delight in honing their routines to get the most
from fewer steps – never one to overlook a product
that does both.
Hey Cult Beauty,
Here's whats in my bag today...

Blank Space to doodle,


make notes, get creative.

Use
the
stic
ker
s to b
uild
you
r dre
am
ma
ke-
upb
ag
DO some Doodles...
At this stage, you might feel a little adrift in a cyclone of skincare tips, tricks and truths. Let your creativity erupt
across these blank pages – scribble, scrawl or jot down what you’ve discovered so far. After all, Imagination is the
blueprint for all that’s groundbreaking in beauty, so share your artistry with us on socials using
#cultbeauty #fortheloveofbeauty #generationAZ #skintuition
t o K n o w
lA l You Netedives
About Ac

Retinol and Retinal (Vitamin A)


Retinol is effective for targeting acne and preventing signs of ageing in mature
skin (30+), but it’s not for everyone, especially teens. Too much retinol can cause
redness, peeling, and dryness. It should only ever be used on young skin if advised
by a skincare professional or dermatologist. Start with a low concentration (0.25%
or 0.5%) and apply only a small amount – a pea-sized drop for the entire face is
enough. Never use it if you have sensitive or irritated skin.

BHA and PHA


( Beta-Hydroxy and Polyhydroxy Acids)
BHAs (like salicylic acid) are great for reducing acne and exfoliating dead skin cells,
but they can also lead to drying if overused. Limit their use to 1-2 times per week
unless advised otherwise by a dermatologist. PHAs, in comparison, are a gentler,
more gradual alternative to BHAs that support the skin’s barrier function, increase
moisture and remove dead skin cells.
I know I s
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here an SPF but it bre
to suit my aks me
Don’t p o
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earing
il y skin type?
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re s – it’s a you’ve
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ulas th s and e
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PAULA’S CHOICE Use: . And m yntheti
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Heather W
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a r y o u r S P F!
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Fu k you!r e
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THANK YOU FARMER Use:
Water Sun Cream Every Morning

Cult top tip


Only use if yo
ur skin actuall
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Clearing Up Common SkinTok Myths
Myth #1: More is more
Using too many products or constantly switching between them can
REALITY: irritate your skin and exacerbate problems like acne. A simple, consistent
skincare routine is best for young skin.

Myth #2: Expensive products are always better


You don’t need to break the bank to have healthy skin. Simple, effective
REALITY: products – like a gentle cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturiser – can work
wonders at any price point.

Myth #3: Oily skin types should skip moisturiser


When your skin isn’t retaining enough water beneath the surface, it
REALITY: can actually become dehydrated and tricked into overproducing oil to
compensate, creating a vicious cycle. The solution? Try an oil-free,
non-comedogenic moisturiser that’s lightweight in texture.
Have a listen...
We not only have an expert eye for the very best in beauty; we’re quite the connois-
seurs of music, too. So much so that we’ve curated the perfect feel-good playlist to
soundtrack your skincare routine, study sessions and solo dates. Click the button
below and tune into empowering pop, motivating melodies and old-school mixes.

Click here to liste


n
Spotify Playlist
UNFOLLOW / - If an account makes you feel bad
about yourself or posts upsetting
MUTE ACCOUNTS content, try to unfollow or mute them.

ll o w a c c o u n t s w h o
Fo o t iv a t e you!
ins p ir e o r m

BE KIND - Focus on being kind, supportive and brighten someone’s day!

ONLINE - Choosing not to be part of negativity can help keep up your own mood.

- Remember photos can be staged, filtered, or edited, and


FOMO people often share only the highlights of their lives.

Soc i a l M e d i a T i p s
- Choose how much time you would like
SET to spend on social media.
LIMITS - Check your settings and see if you can
set a limit on social media.

- Using your phone late in the


TAKING evening can make it harder to sleep.
BREAKS - Try keeping your device further from your bed.
Check out the night mo
on your phone or look in des
a blue light filter to

- Make sure to take steps away from


AVOID USING your phone and do something offline.
YOUR PHONE - Try doing something creative or spending
BEFORE BED time with people.

- Constant alerts can make you feel pressured to check your


MUTING phone, always check your phone in your own time.
NOTIFICATIONS - Try turning off your notifications for apps or putting your phone
into ‘do not disturb’ mode.

- It’s common to feel like you’re missing out when you see others
COMPARING posting.
YOURSELF TO - Everyone has downtime, challenges, and lonely times —
OTHERS you’re only seeing a small fragment of their life.
Time for some FAQs
We pitched your burning beauty questions to a team of dermatologists, brand founders
and skincare experts to help you conquer your common skincare bugbears.

“I hate my spots what can I –

do to help clear my complexion?”


“Start with the basics. A gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove dirt,
make up and oil, followed by a non-drying, targeted treatment. Ingredients
like PHA (polyhydroxy acid) and zinc are great for targeting clogged pores
and imperfections, while blue tansy is ideal for soothing redness. Always
moisturise – choose an oil-free, lightweight formula.”

Team of experts at Byoma

“I know I should wear


sunscreen, but it breaks me
out.Is there an SPF to suit
my oily skin type?”
“Don’t put off wearing sunscreen because you’ve heard it blocks
your pores – it’s a common myth. These days, well-formulated
sunscreens exist that are suitable for all skin types, even acne-
prone skin. Look for sheer, thin textures and experiment with
formulas that contain a blend of synthetic and mineral actives.
And make sure you cleanse thoroughly at the end of the day.”

Heather Wish, Skincare Education


Manager at Paulas Choice
“ Should I use acid exfoliants?”
“You hear so much about acid exfoliants and how they can achieve a
‘glass skin’ glow. For teens, there are a lot of changes happening and
acids can be detrimental – leading to redness, irritation and impaired
barrier function. You’re better off focusing on products that calm and
respect your skin barrier.”

Melanie Black, Head of Scientific


Communication & Training at Avene

“What should my morning and evening skincare


routines look like?”
Morning: Evening:
Cleanse with a gentle face wash. Cleanse to remove make up, sunscreen, and dirt.
Apply a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid). Use a targeted treatment (like niacinamide or a gentle
Moisturise with a lightweight cream. exfoliant).
Finish with SPF 30 or higher. Moisturise to replenish your skin overnight.

Dr. Kelly Saynor

“What does premature or inappropriate use of


retinol and actives do to the skin? ”
“In the short term, we see redness, peeling, and irritation. If you’ve been using actives longer than a few months
they can cause some sensitivity and make your skin more prone to damage. If retinol is used for more than a
year, the skin barrier can become compromised leading to chronic dryness or redness.”

Dr. Kelly Saynor


Ingredient Glossary
Here are some ingredients to look (and look out!) for.

Green Amber Red exfoliatin


g
Gentle ye e potent,
ingredie t effectiv These ar at work to dissolve
nts priorit e, these For oily or blemish-prone skin, nt s th skin.
hydratio is ingredie nate the
n, and ba e soothing, these ingredients help purify and rejuve ting
Perfect fo rrier supp dead cells d too harsh, irrita
r calmin ort. pores, exfoliate, and brighten the re ng skin,
healthy g and mai Conside r developi ss
sk
consider in long-term, th
ntaining complexion, while targeting concerns actical fo le
and impr av oided un a
ed safe ey are like texture and pigmentation. ld be
can be us for youn they shou commended by
ed with co g skin and While safe for young skin, they may
specifi ca lly re
nfidence. ogist.
not be suitable for everyone – dermatol
always consult a dermatologist
before use.

AHA Alpha-hydroxy acids; chemical exfoliants that work by dissolving the uppermost layer
of protective skin cells.

Aloe Vera A soothing, plant-derived extract that’s prized for its calming and comforting powers.

Effectively works to reduce rosacea, acne and pigmentation, while neutralising the
Azelaic Acid harmful effects of free radicals that trigger inflammation. Its mild exfoliating properties
may cause sensitivity.

Not as scary as it sounds, this organic acid targets acne by killing bacteria on the skin
Benzoyl Peroxide and removing dead skin cells that can clog pores.

Beta-hydroxy acids; these have pore-purifying properties. Great for oily, congested
BHA complexions.

A calming flower extract that is great for sensitive complexions.


Blue Tansy
Often found in cleansers and moisturisers, these barrier-boosters supplement skin’s
Ceramides defences.

While mineral sunscreens act like a shield, chemical sunscreens are like a sponge,
Chemical SPF soaking up damaging UV rays before they can harm your skin. Light, easy to apply,
and non-greasy, they’re best suited to oily and combination skin types.

Collagen A naturally occurring protein in the body, it’s commonly included in creams and
serums to help keep skin smooth, firm and plump.
Fragrance Heavily fragranced formulas can disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to breakouts and
redness. Anyone with sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema should avoid fragranced
products.

Glycerin A humectant, this draws moisture into the skin to hydrate without clogging pores.

Glycolic Acid The smallest of AHAs, this chemical exfoliant dissolves dead skin cells on the surface
and boosts cell turnover to brighten and smooth skin.

Green tea A natural alternative to chemical antioxidants, great for soothing sensitivity and
redness.

Hyaluronic Acid A powerful, lightweight hydrator, similar to glycerin.

Niacinamide A form of vitamin B that helps minimise enlarged pores and balance oil production.

Mineral SPF Forms a physical barrier on the skin that blocks and scatters both UVA and UVB rays.
It sits on top of the skin, instead of soaking in, so it’s a great choice for sensitive skin.
Will need reapplication every few hours for optimum protection.

PHA Polyhydroxy acids; gentler, more gradual alternatives to AHAs.

Pre/Probiotics ‘Good bacteria’ that support the skin barrier. Great for blemish and acne-prone
skin types.

Retinal A more potent form of vitamin A than retinol, it’s less harsh and quicker to act on the
skin, but can still compromise it’s protective barrier if overused.

Retinol A vitamin A derivative known for a spectrum of benefits. It works by encouraging cell
turnover to promote brighter, smoother skin – so it’s great for mature skin types, but
can deplete the skin’s barrier when used too soon.

Salicylic Acid A common BHA, found in pore-purifying and clarifying cleansers, toners and
moisturisers.

Squalane A highly effective emollient that mimics your skin’s natural oils to deeply hydrate and
support your natural moisture barrier.

Vitamin C Often listed as ascorbic acid, this powerful antioxidant targets pigmentation, refines
skin texture and brightens.

Witch Hazel A mild astringent, great for oily skin types.

Zinc An essential mineral that helps reduce the appearance of redness and acne scars.

Essential Oils Highly concentrated extracts that should be used with extreme caution for young,
developing skin. If not properly diluted or used appropriately, they can lead to irritation
or a burning sensation.
Caring for your skin and overall

wellbeing is a journey, not a sprint.


The public sphere of social media


is noisy, and the pressure to be
perfect unquestionably intense –

but a 7-step skincare routine isn t


the magic antidote. With the right


products for you, patience, and a
little self-love for all your quirks
and complexities, you ll blossom into

your most authentic self, both


inside and out.
If you suspect your child may be struggling with
their mental health, click the button below to
access a variety of additional resources, tools and
expert guidance to support you in navigating these
challenges together.

Read More
GIGI/ YEAR 9/ DOWN HOUSE

CARLA/ YEAR 10/ LADY ELEANOR HOLLES SCHOOL


BRAND DIRECTOR/ INDIGO CLARKE
HEAD OF SUSTAINABILITY & SOCIAL CAUSES / ALICIA HICKEY
PRODUCTION/ EMMELINE WHITE
GRAPHIC DESIGN/ LAUREN COLLINS
WRITER/ SOPHIA FORD-PALMER
EDITOR/ VERITY DOUGLAS

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