Skincare for Kids: What Parents Should Know (And What to Ignore)

Skincare for Kids: What Parents Should Know (And What to Ignore)

I want to begin by saying this clearly, because I know how overwhelming skincare has become for parents.

Most kids do not need skincare routines.

Not serums. Not exfoliants. Not multi-step regimens. Not “anti-acne” systems designed for adult skin. And definitely not products trending on social media.

Children’s skin is fundamentally different from adult skin. It is thinner, more permeable, and far more sensitive to irritation and ingredient overload. At the same time, it is incredibly resilient when left alone and cared for simply.

What concerns me most right now is not that parents are neglecting their children’s skin — it’s that they’re being pressured to do too much.

I see this in my practice often. Parents come in worried because their child wants a skincare routine, or because they’ve seen videos suggesting that kids need exfoliation, acids, or “preventative” products. They’re trying to do the right thing, but the information available is confusing and often not medically grounded.

So let me simplify this.

Healthy skin in childhood is about protection, not correction.

Skin at this age is still developing its barrier function. That barrier is what protects against irritation, inflammation, and future sensitivity. When it’s disrupted too early — through harsh cleansers, fragrances, actives, or frequent product changes — the skin can become reactive in ways that follow a child into adolescence and adulthood.

That’s why the most important thing parents can do is resist the idea that skincare equals products.

Skincare for kids is really about habits.

Gentle cleansing when needed. Proper sun protection. Teaching kids not to scrub, pick, or over-wash their skin. Helping them understand that skin doesn’t need to be “fixed” to be healthy.

When parents ask me what they should ignore, my answer is simple: ignore marketing that treats children like miniature adults.

Children do not need anti-aging ingredients. They do not need exfoliating acids. They do not need retinoids, scrubs, masks, or devices. Even products labeled “gentle” can be inappropriate if they’re formulated for adult concerns.

Fragrance is another area I urge parents to be cautious with. Fragrance is one of the most common causes of irritation and allergic reactions in children’s skin, even when reactions aren’t immediately visible.

And then there’s the emotional side — which matters just as much.

The way we talk to children about skincare sets the tone for how they see their bodies.

When skincare becomes about correcting flaws too early, it can quietly teach kids that something is wrong with them. I believe skincare education for children should focus on care, comfort, and health — never appearance or perfection.

If a child has a medical skin condition, persistent rashes, eczema, or acne that begins later on, that’s when professional guidance matters. But for most children, simplicity is not neglect — it’s wisdom.

As a dermatologist, I can tell you this with confidence: the healthiest adult skin I see almost always comes from people whose skin was not over-treated as children.

So if you’re a parent wondering whether you’re doing enough, I want to reassure you — you probably are.

Clean skin. Protected skin. Respected skin.

That’s more than enough for now.

May your child’s skin — and confidence — grow strong and healthy.

~ Dr. Lazuk

CEO & Co-Founder

Dr. Lazuk Esthetics® Cosmetics®

Entertainment-only medical disclaimer

This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Individual skin needs vary and should be evaluated by a licensed professional.

Have you ever felt unsure about whether your child actually needs skincare products?

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