Teen skin doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Breakouts, oil, and redness may be common, but they’re not inevitable. As a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Dr. Koo Skincare, I’ve spent over 30 years creating science-based skincare solutions for real skin, at every age.
Here’s what I tell every teen (and their parent): Teen skin doesn't need trends. It needs smart, targeted solutions that support the skin barrier, not destroy it. Let’s break down the most common skincare mistakes teens make and how to fix them with the plastic surgeon-recommended skincare routine.
1. OVER-WASHING: MORE FOAM, MORE PROBLEMS
THE MISTAKE
Washing your face too often or using harsh foaming cleansers strips away natural oils and triggers rebound oil production.
DR. KOO’S FIX
Wash your face twice a day using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser. After workouts? Just rinse or apply a hydrating toner. No need to scrub your face raw.
Try This: Anti-Toxin Facial Cleanser – Gently detoxifies and balances teen skin without over-drying.
2. SKIPPING SPF—YES, EVEN WHEN IT’S CLOUDY
THE MISTAKE
DR. KOO’S FIX
Coming Soon to Dr. Koo Skincare: SPF developed specifically for acne-prone and sensitive skin. In the meantime, use a non-comedogenic, mineral-based SPF from a trusted brand until ours launches.
3. USING TOO MANY ACNE PRODUCTS AT ONCE
THE MISTAKE
Layering salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids—then wondering why your skin is inflamed.
DR. KOO’S FIX
Simplify. Stick to one active at a time.
- Blackheads? Use salicylic acid.
- Breakouts? Benzoyl peroxide.
- Preventative care? Use retinol, gently and consistently.
Try This: Dr. Koo 0.05% Retinol Pads – Low-dose retinol for sensitive and teen skin. No purging, no flaking.
4. PICKING & POPPING PIMPLES (YES, I SEE YOU)
THE MISTAKE
Touching or popping pimples spreads bacteria deeper, leading to inflammation and scarring.
DR. KOO’S FIX
Apply a targeted treatment and leave it alone. Use salicylic acid serums or hydrocolloid patches. For persistent acne, seek a personalized consultation.
Try This: Clarifying Salicylic Acid Cleanse – Gentle, effective spot treatment cleansing for whiteheads and inflammatory breakouts.
5. USING WHATEVER’S TRENDING ON TIKTOK
THE MISTAKE
Teen skin is not one-size-fits-all. Just because it’s viral doesn’t mean it’s right for your skin type.
DR. KOO’S FIX
Know your skin type:
- Oily skin: Use gel-based hydration
- Dry skin: Opt for richer moisturizers with hyaluronic acid
Unsure? Take the Dr. Koo Skincare Quiz.
Try This: Daily Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid – Lightweight hydration for sensitive and oily-prone skin.
6. THINKING OILY SKIN DOESN’T NEED MOISTURE
THE MISTAKE
Skipping moisturizer because you’re already oily.
DR. KOO’S FIX
Dehydrated skin overproduces oil. Use a lightweight, oil-free hydrator with antioxidants to protect your skin and balance oil production.
Try This: Dr. Koo Anti-Oxidant Vitamin Serum – 15% THDA Vitamin C + E, F, D, K. The ultimate protective serum for youthful, clear skin.
7. SCRUBBING WITH HARSH EXFOLIANTS
THE MISTAKE
Using gritty scrubs too often leads to microtears, irritation, and long-term barrier damage.
DR. KOO’S FIX
Use a mild chemical exfoliant 2–3x a week. Avoid scrubs that feel like sandpaper. You’re not cleaning a countertop, you’re protecting your skin.
Try This: Anti-Toxin Exfoliating Cleanser – Lactic acid + oat polishers for gentle exfoliation without irritation.
FINAL THOUGHT: EDUCATION vs EXPERIMENTATION
Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated or trendy. It just needs to be right. Give your teen the tools and knowledge to care for their skin with the plastic surgeon's recommended skincare routine, not whatever’s popular this week.
Need help? Book a virtual or in-office consultation. Call us at (314) 984-8331 or browse our skincare product range.
Great skin doesn’t start with guessing. It starts with the right guidance and we’re here to provide it.
