The simple skincare routine for teens that actually works - and five expert tips

Social media is driving the trend for "flawless complexions" and complex "glass skin" routines in teenagers, with many prioritising advice from influencers in Get Ready With Me (GRWM) videos over professionals.

For consultant dermatologist Dr Jonathan Kentley, the most concerning influence social media is having is the "relentless images of unrealistic beauty standards".

"I've seen thousands of patients and I've never seen anyone with 'glass skin'. I don't think it exists, and it's just these over-filtered images that make children think that this is achievable when it's not."

Visible pores, blackheads, blemishes, pigmentation, redness and scarring are all very normal for teenage skin, says Dr Kentley. But he adds that everyone's normal is different: "I don't think there's anything that is really abnormal."

More than 80% of 13- to 18-year-olds experience acne during their teenage years.

Dr Zainab Laftah, a consultant dermatologist, explains that most of the so-called problems you encounter during puberty are related to testosterone, which drives rises in oil production and acne.

Boys can experience more of these problems, but girls have testosterone as well so get many of the same symptoms.

"This, together with blocked hair follicles and inflammation, leads to blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed spots," Dr Laftah says. "Acne is very, very common and it's normal and treatable."