 While those ingredients can be appropriate for teens with oily skin, Cheng says they're too harsh for the thinner skin of pre-teens. Their skin barrier can be compromised more easily. Their skin's more sensitive. Their skin's not as robust. And so any of these products can affect their skin more easily to cause irritation. So what should a skincare routine look like for a tween or young teen? Dr. Elizabeth Houshmand is a dermatologist in Dallas who sees many patients in this age group. Her advice is to keep it simple.