Skincare for Preteens (Ages 8–12): When Skin Starts to Change

Skincare for Preteens (Ages 8–12): When Skin Starts to Change

This is often the age when parents start to feel unsure.

Your child’s skin doesn’t look quite the same as it used to. There may be a little more oil on the nose or forehead. Pores might look slightly more visible. Sweat seems to linger longer after sports or play. And sometimes, a child who never thought about their skin suddenly starts asking questions.

Nothing is wrong.

Between the ages of eight and twelve, the body is preparing for change. Hormones haven’t fully arrived yet, but the skin is beginning to respond to what’s coming. Oil glands slowly wake up. The skin barrier is still delicate, but no longer completely childlike. This is a transition phase — and it deserves a gentle approach.

What worries me most at this age is not early oil or the occasional small breakout. It’s when normal skin changes are treated as problems that need fixing.

Preteen skin does not need aggressive products. It does not need acne systems, exfoliating acids, masks, or spot treatments borrowed from adult routines. Introducing those too early often creates irritation, dryness, and inflammation that make future skin concerns harder — not easier — to manage.

At this stage, skincare should still feel simple and supportive.

Cleansing becomes more consistent, especially in the evening, when sweat, sunscreen, and daily buildup need to be removed. The cleanser should remain gentle, fragrance-free, and non-foaming or lightly foaming at most. If skin feels tight after washing, that’s a sign the cleanser is too harsh.

Moisturizer may start to play a small role for some preteens, especially if the skin feels dry, itchy, or uncomfortable. The goal isn’t to make skin “perfect,” but to keep it comfortable and balanced. Many preteens won’t need daily moisturizer — and that’s completely normal.

Sunscreen continues to matter, perhaps more than ever, as kids become more independent outdoors. Teaching consistent sun protection now builds habits that protect skin for decades.

This is also the age when parents have an opportunity to shape how their child thinks about skincare.

I encourage conversations that focus on care, not appearance. Skin is something we look after because it protects us — not because it needs to be corrected. When a child understands that, skincare becomes a neutral, healthy habit rather than a source of anxiety or self-criticism.

If a preteen develops persistent breakouts, redness, or irritation that affects their confidence or comfort, that’s the moment to seek professional guidance. Not because something is wrong — but because guidance at the right time prevents overreaction later.

One thing I always remind parents is this: preteen skin is still learning how to regulate itself. Our job is not to interfere too much while it figures that out.

Support the skin. Protect the barrier. Resist the urge to do more.

Healthy skin at this age is not loud or dramatic. It’s quiet, comfortable, and resilient.

And that’s exactly what we want it to be.

May your child move through these changes feeling supported — not scrutinized.

~ 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 noticed changes in your child’s skin as they approach the preteen years?

• 0%Yes, slight oiliness or shine
• 0%Yes, small breakouts
• 0%Mostly dryness or sensitivity
• 0%Not yet

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