By The Woodhouse Day Spa's Jeni Garrett for GalTime.com
Bonding Over Beauty talking to your daughter about skincare
The most important lesson that can be taught about beauty is that it comes from within.
However, it's imperative that mothers also educate their daughters about the importance of proper hygiene and help them establish a daily beauty regimen.
Teaching your daughter about clear skin will not only build her self-confidence, but the discussion is a great opportunity to bond with her, creating an open relationship.
Related: Body Image: Making Sure Your Teen Sees All The 'Right' Things
Remember that this is a delicate topic; you want to educate and build trust without spawning an awkward tension or pointing out flaws.
Here are some tips and product recommendations to ensure a healthy relationship and beauty regimen.
-
Approach the subject in a subtle, but upfront, manner. Recent studies suggest that roughly 80 percent (or higher) of teenagers have acne. She definitely isn't alone! Due to social pressures, new groups of friends and an ever-changing physical appearance, teenagers are more stressed than most adults. Give her examples of how you battled the same issues as a teen to make her realize how natural the process is.
-
Teach her how to treat it. Now that you have discussed the issue, it's important to consider the next steps. Hormones are causing skin to produce excess oil, which clogs pores when left on the face. Choose products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, both kill acne-causing bacteria. Stay away from harsh soaps and cleansers which can strip skin of natural oils. Traditionally, a teenager's skin care regimen should contain a cleanser, a toner, an exfoliating scrub and a moisturizer - many systems cost under $30.
Related: Skincare Tips for the Changing Seasons
-
Know when to seek professional help. When ignored, some blemishes can leave permanent scars. Estheticians and dermatologists are readily available for help. A dermatologist many prescribe an extra-strength product while an esthetician may recommend a series of facial treatments or non-prescription products. Many spas have services that tend to oily, acne-prone skin. For example, The Woodhouse Day Spa recently launched the Young Woodhouse Program, expanding the spa's menu to include a new offering of experiences crafted specifically to young clients between the ages of 6-17 and offering skincare tutorials. Estheticians also discuss skin-related changes associated with puberty and acne care and prevention.
-
Make it fun for both of you. Many households are already stocked with the necessary ingredients for a perfect at-home facial: 2 egg whites and 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt make a great at home mask for all skin types - mix together and apply to face for 10 minutes. Additionally, a great moisturizing facial includes olive oil, yogurt, almond oil and heavy cream while a nice exfoliate can be conjured up by combining brown sugar, ground almonds and white sugar. By establishing a comfortable and trusting relationship she will be more open to discuss problematic issues in the future and, hopefully, use some of your tips to better the overall appearance of her skin.
More from GalTime.com:
- What Would You Do If You Found Out Your Daughter Is on Birth Control?
- What Your Kids Learn From Your Marriage
- Parenting A Teen Shopaholic-How to Break the Cycle
- 3 Ways to Fuel Your Kids for Sports
