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The Ultimate Teen Skincare Routine Guide
A simple routine starts with understanding the basics.
Your first routine doesn’t need a shelf full of products. Start with cleansing, moisturising and sun protection, then add other steps only when they have a clear purpose.
Ready to start with DA? Meet Back to Basics: Clean AF + Moist AF, together in one starter duo.
THE FOUNDATIONS
Three jobs for your everyday routine
Keep the routine manageable. Choose products that feel comfortable on your skin and follow their directions.
01
Cleanse gently
Use a gentle cleanser and your fingertips. For acne-prone skin, the AAD recommends washing up to twice a day and after sweating. Scrubbing harder can irritate skin.
02
Moisturise for comfort
Oily skin can still need moisturiser, especially if acne treatment leaves it dry. Choose a texture and formula that suit your skin. Moisturiser is not an acne treatment.
03
Plan sun protection
Choose broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 50 or 50+. When the UV Index reaches 3, combine sunscreen with protective clothing, shade, a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
YOUR DAILY ROUTINE
Morning and night, made simple
AM / GET READY
Morning
1.
Use your cleanser according to its directions. If your skin is dry or sensitive, an evening-only cleanse may be enough.
Cleanse gently
2.
Apply your moisturiser as directed as your skin needs it.
Moisturise as needed
3.
Apply generously to clean, dry skin 20 minutes before going outdoors, following the label.
Even on cloudy days Australian sun still do damage to your skin!
Apply sunscreen
PM / WIND DOWN
Night
1.
Cleanse away the day
Gently wash off daily buildup, sweat, sunscreen and makeup. Avoid scrubbing
2.
Moisturise
Use a moisturiser that feels comfortable, particularly if your skin is dry.
Using acne treatment? Follow its label or your prescriber’s directions for timing and order. Ask a pharmacist before adding other active products to the same routine.
WHERE DA FITS
Your starting point: Back to Basics
If you’re new to skincare or want to keep your routine simple, Back to Basics is our recommended starting point for a DA routine.
The Teen Skincare Starter Duo brings together Clean AF Gentle Gel Cleanser and Moist AF Nourishing Moisturiser. Two everyday steps in one place, ready to fit into the morning and night routine above.
Clean AF · Gentle Gel Cleanser
200 mL
Moist AF · Nourishing Moisturiser
125 mL
SCHOOL, SPORT & WEEKENDS
THE SWEAT RESET
After sport
Gently wash after heavy sweating when you can. Pat dry instead of rubbing, moisturise if needed, and reapply sunscreen before heading back outside. A face mist does not replace cleansing or sunscreen.
Australian days need a sun plan
Check the day’s UV forecast. Reapply sunscreen every two hours outdoors and after swimming, sweating or towel drying, following its label. Water resistance does not remove the need to reapply. Sun protection may also be needed below UV 3 if you spend extended time outdoors or near reflective surfaces such as snow.
Clothing
SPF 50/50+
Hat
Shade
Sunglasses
BUILD AT YOUR OWN PACE
Extras can wait until you want them
You don’t need every product in the range to get started. A mist or serum is an optional cosmetic step. Check the full ingredient list and directions, and choose it for a purpose that makes sense for you.
WHEN TRYING SOMETHING NEW
Let comfort guide your next step
Introduce one new product at a time so it is easier to notice how your skin responds. Check the ingredient list for known allergens. Fragrance-free products may be a better option for sensitive or reactive skin, no formula suits everyone.
If a new cosmetic causes burning or a rash, stop using it and seek advice if symptoms persist or are severe. Ask your prescriber before changing prescribed treatment.
KNOW WHEN TO ASK
Breakouts sometimes need more than a routine
Acne is common during puberty, and having it does not mean you are dirty or doing skincare badly. A cleanser and moisturiser can support everyday skin care, but acne may need specific treatment.
Speak with a pharmacist or GP if acne is bothering you, not improving, painful or leaving scars. If it is affecting your confidence or daily life, that is a reason to ask for help too. A GP can discuss treatment and whether you need a dermatologist.
For parents: ask what is bothering your teen, keep the conversation supportive and help them access advice when they want or need it.