Do children need skincare

From our perspective as a company dedicated to creating gentle, child-friendly products, the answer is both simple and nuanced: children do not need complicated skincare routines — but they do benefit from basic, protective care designed specifically for their delicate skin.

Children are not just ‘little adults’ and their skin is very different from adult skin. It is thinner, more sensitive, and still developing. Everyday factors like weather changes, frequent handwashing, playground exposure, and bath time routines can all disrupt a child’s natural skin barrier. This does not mean children need complicated routines or strong ingredients. In fact, the opposite is true. What they need most is support — simple products that help maintain the skin’s natural balance without overwhelming it. At our core, we believe skincare for children should focus on three essentials: protection, hydration, and comfort. Protection means shielding the skin from dryness, harsh soaps, and environmental irritants. Hydration ensures the skin barrier stays strong and resilient. Comfort means formulas that feel soothing, do not irritate the skin, and are pleasant enough that children feel happy and confident using them

One of the biggest misconceptions in today’s skincare culture is that “more is better.” Adult routines often include active ingredients designed to treat acne, pigmentation, or signs of aging. These are unnecessary — and sometimes harmful — for young skin. Children do not need exfoliating acids, retinoids, or strong treatments. Their skin is already renewing itself efficiently. Introducing powerful actives too early can disrupt the natural barrier and lead to sensitivity over time.Instead, what children truly benefit from are mild cleansers that wash away dirt without stripping natural oils, lightweight moisturisers that lock in hydration, and sun protection - basics help support the skin’s natural functions rather than trying to change them. Another important aspect of children’s skincare is safety and simplicity. Parents increasingly and understandably worry about “nasty ingredients,” but it can be difficult to know which these are. Young skin can react more easily to harsh fragrances, unnecessary dyes, or overly complex formulations. That’s why Bare La Terre are introducing products with minimal ingredient lists, prioritising gentle, well-understood components that nurture and support rather than challenge the skin.

Skincare for children is also about building healthy habits at an early age. Teaching kids to cleanse gently, moisturise after bathing, and protect their skin helps them develop lifelong self-care routines. It frames skincare not as a cosmetic concern, but as a basic part of personal wellbeing — like brushing teeth or washing hands.Ultimately, children don’t need skincare in the way adults often think of it. They don’t need targeted treatments, trendy ingredients, or multi-step routines. What they do need is gentle, reliable support that keeps their skin comfortable, healthy, and resilient as they grow.

By keeping formulas gentle, basic, and free from unnecessary additives, we aim to give parents peace of mind and children the quiet confidence that comes from feeling comfortable in their own skin.

Dr Mariana Noy