Written by Jane Armbruster, Relate Intern

I think we can all agree that one of the worst parts of being a teenager is uncontrollable skin. Not only do hormones, certain foods and stress levels cause breakouts, but when moisturizers, makeup and other skin treatments are also thrown into the mix – we’re doomed.

The good news is there are fast-acting, affordable products that combine cleanliness and convenience into tempting packages.

Stridex Cleansing Wipes:

(Photo by stridexacne.org)

If you have oily skin and are looking for a makeup remover with the strength to dissolve mild to moderate acne, comb your drugstore aisles for these skin bacteria-fighting wonder pads. With different products for different skin types, some with an alcohol base and others without, these wipes are a great before-bed treatment for removing daily debris, cosmetics and oil. I swear by these when I’m fighting my monthly breakouts.

Pros: Convenient before-bed use, fights strongly against breakouts, deep cleansing.

Cons: Harsh on sensitive skin.

Pond’s Cold Cream:

(Photo by www.splendicity.com)

Now I know when many teens picture cold cream use, it’s always applied to an old, wrinkled face. But cold cream isn’t just for our grandmothers’ bathroom cabinets. Pond’s Cold Cream is a water-based makeup remover and nightly moisturizer that not only eliminates daily grime and stale foundation, but also soothes skin while cleaning out pores. Apply cream to face and rub in deeply; I like to wipe away the excess with a steaming hot towel – the heat opens pores to better remove leftover debris, and leaves my skin feeling even smoother.

Pros: Cleans, soothes, leaves face feeling refreshed, great for fair and sensitive skin.

Cons: Poor results when trying to fight breakouts.

Neutrogena Makeup Removing Cleansing Towelettes:

Neutrogena is a commercial classic for teen skin treatments, and their cloths (for daily use) do not disappoint when you’re looking for a simple, gentle way to remove dirt and makeup. However, if you like your removers to fight zits or prefer a cool, refreshing feeling following application, the towelettes may not quench your thirst for clean skin.

Pros: Does its job – removes makeup, gentle.

Cons: Does little of anything else, lack of refreshing, clean feel following use.

We all have different skin types, and we all have different ways of dealing with our skin problems. But makeup removers give us options for defeating our facial woes and help our natural beauty shine through.

Tags: breakouts, cold cream, makeup remover, skin, skin treatments