Spot treatments are mainly used for two purposes in skin care. Some spot treatments are used for dark spots and hyperpigmentation while another popular category is acne spot treatment. Using a spot treatment meant for dark spots/hyperpigmentation isn't typically recommended for tweens because tween skin is more delicate and can be prone to irritation. Additionally, spot treatments that serve this purpose usually have retinoids and ingredients usually harmful for tween skin. Usually tweens and teens use spot treatments for acne, such as acne creams and pimple patches.
These spot treatments are used to lighten and fade skin discoloration by exfoliating the skin or increasing cell turnover which can lead to a more radiant skin tone.
Spot treatment ingredients for dark spots/hyperpigmentation include:
Vitamin C
Niacinamide
Retinoids
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
Best For: Can be used for most skin types, and are generally designed for adult skin in mind.
Pro Tip: To prevent dark spots on your face, focus on a gentle routine, and don't touch your face too much because it can spread bacteria onto your face. Additionally, to prevent dark spots and pigmentation, wearing sunscreen can help because it provides your skin with protection from the sun.
Watch For: Increased sun sensitivity, irritation, and dryness
Feels like: It can feel different depending on what you use, for example if it's a serum, cream, or gel.
Spot treatments for acne are used because they can target a specific area on the face and reduce the mark of a blemish or acne. Spot treatments are primarily used to extract the pustule and excess fluid from the acne spot.
Spot treatments ingredients for acne include:
Benzoyl Peroxide
Salicylic Acid
Sulfur
Tea Tree Oil
Best For: Acne-prone skin
Pro Tip: For multiple spot treatments, especially drying ones, use them during your night routine and keep it on overnight.
Watch For: Skin irritation, which can mean that the product you are using is too strong for your skin.
Feels like: It can feel different depending on what you use, for example if it's a patch, cream, or gel.
Anti-aging ingredients - Ingredients like retinoids which can harm the skin by causing dryness, irritation, and redness
Strong exfoliants - Tween skin naturally exfoliates itself and when you over exfoliate, your skin barrier can be damaged.
Fragrances - Is a common irritant and allergen and tween skin is sensitive and irritation-prone so it's recommended to avoid a product with fragrances.
Look for ingredients like:
Salicylic Acid which can help unclog pores
Succinic Acid which is a milder alternative for sensitive skin
Niacinamide can help redness and inflammation which is a good option for sensitive skin
Tea Tree Oil - Is a natural ingredient that is mostly used to prevent acne because it has antibacterial properties that can help reduce acne breakouts.