Skin care tips to help teenagers achieve the best possible results for their skin.

Looking after teen skin

Take care when choosing cosmetics. Foundation, blush and moisturizer should be oil-free. Choose products that do not promote the formation of blemishes or cause blocked pores. Ask a qualified salesperson or a dermatologist which skin products would be best for your skin type.

Don't pick your face. If you pick, squeeze or pinch blemishes, you risk developing acne scars. Don't rub or touch blemishes.

Be gentle with cleaning. Hard scrubbing will only make your skin condition worse. Gently wash your skin with a mild cleanser in the morning and at bedtime. Avoid rough scrubs. After you wash your skin, rinse it thoroughly.

Use sunscreen regularly. The sun can damage the skin and promote skin's premature aging; therefore, daily use of sunscreen is recommended. Some acne medications can make you more prone to sunburns. For this reason, use sunscreens all of the time. Re-apply when you are in the sun for prolonged periods of time.

Be careful when shaving. Avoid the accidental nicks of blemishes by shaving lightly and only when you have to. You can experiment with different razors to find the one that is more comfortable for your skin.

Remove makeup every night. Sleeping with makeup is a major no-no. It can build up in your pores and cause breakouts.

Avoid smoking and alcohol. They deplete the body of essential nutrients and are skin agers.

Eat right. Include plenty of raw food in your daily diet, like fruits, salad and sprouts.

Drink up. Drink plenty of water to keep your system well flushed of toxins and wastes.

Work it out. Daily exercise helps to improve blood circulation to the skin and facilitates the elimination of wastes.

Take time to relax. Stress can trigger off many skin problems.