Skyn by Dr Kym’s essential tips for teens and college students

This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation with Skyn by Dr Kym Medical Director, Kimberly Johnson.

Johnson is an American Board Certified Aesthetic Medical Physician. She noted that ‘most teens and college students face new-onset acne during puberty or adult-onset acne in their early 20s.’

Noting that this type of acne ‘differs significantly from the skin concerns often experienced by adults, who typically focus more on issues like hyperpigmentation and anti-ageing.’

Read Dr Kym's advice and more from Part One of our interview here.

Beautiful skin, that’s free of acne, blemishes, dark spots, etc, is not just an issue that affects teens. Dr Kym's tips and her holistic approach has helped patients from all age groups.

Skincare, simplified!

As students manage the delicate balancing act between school and self-care, Dr Johnson suggests keeping routines simple yet effective.

When selecting skincare products, it’s vital to avoid harsh ingredients that can exacerbate skin issues. ‘A skincare routine that does not contain fragrance, essential oils, or denatured alcohol is always recommended,’ Dr Johnson advises.

‘These components can irritate the skin and worsen conditions like acne, especially for those with sensitive skin.’

Adjusting to skin types

Teens and young adults should tailor their skincare routines based on their skin type — whether it is oily, dry, or combination.

For oily skin, products containing salicylic acid can help manage excess oil.

Those with dry skin may benefit from richer moisturisers, while individuals with combination skin should use lighter products on oily areas and heavier creams on drier patches.

In addition to this, the importance of sun protection cannot be overstated.

‘Sun protection should start at six months old. For students, incorporating sunscreen into their daily routine can be simple and cost-effective.’ Dr Johnson says.

Dr Kym's final assessment

As students prepare to tackle the school year, the journey to healthy skin doesn’t have to be daunting.

Dr Johnson concludes with an important tip, ‘By maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and following a simple skincare routine, students can set themselves up for success — both in the classroom and in their skin health.’

By understanding their unique skincare needs and making informed choices, teens and college students can confidently embrace their back-to-school journey, armed with the knowledge and tools to achieve healthy, glowing skin.