Adolescence is a complicated phase for most people, marked by hormonal, physical, and emotional transformations that often bring anxiety and vulnerability. Anyone who has been through it knows: pimples, acne, body image, mood swings, new friendships—everything affects teens' self-esteem and confidence. And while they may think their parents are “annoying,” it’s the parents’ role to support and guide them patiently, as they remain the pillar in a child’s development.
From a young age, parents teach their children basic hygiene habits like showering, hand washing, and brushing teeth. But once they enter puberty, teens must adopt new routines, and it’s up to parents to help them understand why these habits are important. Encouraging early autonomy and interest in self-care will benefit their well-being, self-esteem, and social confidence.
Teens will start spending more time in the bathroom—especially inspecting every new pimple! 🤭 Parents can help by being patient and offering a bit more privacy, while still guiding them toward healthy habits.
🧴 Simple Essentials for Daily Self-Care
To make this transition easier, SweetCare has curated a selection of easy-to-use, effective products for teens from our Beauty Edit TEENS:
🧼 SVR | Cleansing Foam Gel 55mL
Soap-free purifying cleanser for oily, acne-prone skin that gently removes impurities, controls sebum, and unclogs pores without drying.
☀️ CETAPHIL | Pro Oil Control Moisturizer SPF30
Fragrance-free daily moisturizer that hydrates, calms, controls oil and irritation, offers UV protection, and improves skin texture with a matte finish.
💋 NEUTROGENA | Lip Stick SPF20 4.8g
Water-resistant lip balm enriched with glycerin to deeply hydrate, soften, and protect lips from sun exposure and dryness.
🌙 FRESHLY | Blue Radiance Enzymatic Serum 15mL
A 99.9% natural overnight serum that gently exfoliates, renews, and brightens skin—reducing blackheads and evening tone without irritation.
🩹 COSRX | Master Patch (24 pcs)
Hydrocolloid patches that work overnight to absorb impurities, accelerate healing, and prevent scarring—available in multiple sizes.
🦷 GUM | Easy-Flossers Dental Floss (30 pcs)
Mint-flavored, single-use flossers with fluoride and vitamin E for effective plaque removal—perfect for daily use or travel.
🧼 Why Hygiene Matters in Adolescence
Hormonal and physical changes affect teens’ appearance and emotions. Supporting their emotional and psychological state is as important as treating physical concerns. While giving them space, parents must stay present, ready to step in when needed.
✅ Some Basic Hygiene Principles Teens Should Know:
🧴 Body Odor and Sweat
New sweat glands in the underarms and genital area become active during puberty. Bacteria feed on this sweat, creating body odor. Daily showers, clean clothes, and the use of deodorant or antiperspirant help manage these changes.
👣 Foot Odor
Feet sweat too—especially during sports. Teens should wash feet thoroughly, including between toes, wear cotton socks, rotate shoes, and use foot deodorant or sprays if needed.
🪥 Dental Hygiene
Teens should brush at least twice a day and now include dental floss for a healthy smile, fresh breath, and strong gums. Regular dentist visits remain essential.
🩸 Menstruation
For girls, periods can be irregular at first. It’s important to discuss menstruation openly—with both girls and boys—to remove stigma. Explore different options like pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, and consult a gynecologist if the flow seems unusual.
🪒 Hair Growth
Puberty brings hair growth in new areas: underarms, legs, face, and intimate areas. Girls and boys may feel differently about it—some may want to remove or lighten it. The most important thing is feeling comfortable in their own skin.
🧖 Face Care
Oily T-zones, enlarged pores, and breakouts are common. A simple skincare routine with cleansing, oil control, and hydration helps keep acne under control. Avoid touching the face, letting hair cover the forehead, or picking at pimples.
💅 Nail Care
Keep nails short and clean to prevent infections. Teens who bite nails can use strategies like bitter polish or reminders to break the habit.
🧴 Hair Care
Scalp oiliness increases during puberty. Teens can manage it by choosing shampoos that regulate sebum production. These changes are natural and easy to manage with the right products.
💄 Grooming and Self-Expression
Makeup, nail polish, piercings, hair dye—these are all ways teens express themselves. Parents should listen and talk openly about health and safety, while respecting individual choices.
🆘 SOS Care
Teens should be empowered to handle small injuries. Teach them how to clean and cover a wound, and when to seek medical help.
Also, discuss contact lens hygiene, keeping glasses clean, and caring for braces, if applicable.
✨ The Takeaway
Building strong hygiene habits helps adolescents gain confidence, independence, and emotional resilience. With open communication, gentle guidance, and the right tools, parents can support their teens every step of the way.
👉 Explore our full Beauty Edit TEENS collection here and help your teen feel great in their own skin—every day! 💙
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/menstruation.html
https://helloclue.com/pt/artigos/ciclo-a-z/o-que-e-normal-volume-e-intensidade-da-menstruacao
https://janela-aberta-familia.min-saude.pt/adolescentes/higiene-pessoal
https://miranda.sapo.pt/pele/artigos/teenage-dream-os-primeiros-cuidados-para-a-pele-de-um-adolescente
https://www.verywellfamily.com/smelly-teen-lets-talk-teen-hygiene-3200879
https://raisingchildren.net.au/pre-teens/healthy-lifestyle/hygiene-dental-care/hygiene-pre-teens-teens
https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/teen-hygiene
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/hygiene-basics.html
https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/ACH-News/General-News/The-Importance-of-Teen-Hygiene
https://www.onhealth.com/content/1/8_personal_hygiene_best_practices_for_teens