5 Best Face Moisturizers for Tweens' Healthy Skin

One of the biggest skincare myths is that oily or acne-prone skin should be dried out. It’s easy to think that skipping moisturizer will help control shine, but that approach almost always backfires. When skin is stripped of its natural moisture, it panics and produces even more oil to compensate, leading to a frustrating cycle of breakouts and grease. The real secret to balancing young, changing skin is proper hydration. A lightweight, non-greasy formula gives the skin the moisture it needs to calm down and find its equilibrium. This guide will help you understand this balance and find the best face moisturizer for tweens that hydrates without clogging pores.

Key Takeaways

• Balance is the goal, even for oily skin: A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer is crucial for tweens because it provides necessary hydration without clogging pores. This helps regulate oil production and supports a healthy skin barrier, preventing the cycle of dryness and excess shine.
• Focus on gentle, age-appropriate ingredients: Look for simple formulas with supportive ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide. Steer clear of harsh actives designed for adults, such as retinoids and strong acids, which can irritate a tween's developing skin.
• A simple routine is the most effective routine: Help your tween build a consistent habit by sticking to the basics. A gentle cleanser and moisturizer twice a day, followed by sunscreen in the morning, is all they need for healthy, happy skin.

Why Your Tween Needs a Moisturizer

If you're wondering whether your tween actually needs a moisturizer, the answer is a definite yes. During these years, skin goes through a ton of changes. One day it might seem totally fine, and the next, you're dealing with new oiliness, unexpected breakouts, or random dry patches. It’s a lot to handle, and it might feel counterintuitive to add moisture to already oily skin. But a good moisturizer is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine, regardless of skin type.

It’s not just about managing dryness. The right moisturizer helps create balance. When skin is properly hydrated, it’s less likely to get irritated or produce extra oil to compensate for feeling stripped or dry. This is a core part of our Beyond Clean Beauty philosophy: giving young skin exactly what it needs without harsh ingredients. A simple, effective moisturizer helps keep their skin’s natural barrier strong, soothes irritation, and supports a healthy complexion. Think of it as a foundational step that helps their skin through all its ups and downs. Establishing this simple habit now also teaches them a valuable lesson in self-care that will stick with them for years to come.

Balance Natural Oils

Puberty often kicks oil glands into high gear, leading to shiny skin and breakouts. It’s a common myth that you should try to dry out oily skin, but that approach usually backfires. When skin becomes too dry (often from harsh cleansers or skipping moisturizer), it tries to fix the problem by producing even more oil. This can create a frustrating cycle of oiliness and blemishes. A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer gives the skin the hydration it needs, which helps signal to those overactive oil glands that they can calm down. It’s all about finding a healthy equilibrium.

Build a Protective Skin Barrier

Think of the skin barrier as your skin’s personal bodyguard. It’s the outermost layer that keeps moisture in and locks irritants, bacteria, and pollution out. When this barrier is weak, skin can become sensitive, red, and prone to problems. A daily moisturizer is essential for keeping this protective layer strong and healthy. By providing hydration and essential nutrients, it reinforces the barrier, helping skin defend itself against environmental stressors. This is especially important for young skin, which is still developing and can be more vulnerable to irritation. A gentle formula helps maintain that crucial defense system.

Support Healthy Skin for the Future

Starting a skincare routine early isn't about chasing perfection; it's about building healthy habits. Teaching your tween to cleanse and moisturize their face every day is like teaching them to brush their teeth. It’s a simple act of self-care that pays off in the long run. When they learn to listen to their skin and give it what it needs, they build a foundation for a lifetime of healthy skin. Our curated skincare sets are designed to make this easy, providing the essentials for a simple and effective routine that they can stick with as they grow.

What Are the Different Tween Skin Types?

Figuring out your skin type is the first step toward building a routine that makes you feel great. During the tween and teen years, skin can change a lot (thanks, hormones!), so what worked last year might not be the right fit today. Your skin usually falls into one of four main categories: oily, dry, sensitive, or combination. Knowing which one sounds most like you will help you pick a moisturizer that keeps your skin happy, balanced, and healthy. Let’s walk through each type so you can identify yours.

Oily or Acne-Prone

If your skin often looks shiny or you notice breakouts on your forehead, nose, and chin, you likely have an oily skin type. Puberty often kicks oil production into high gear, which can lead to clogged pores, pimples, and blackheads. It might seem like a good idea to skip moisturizer, but oily skin still needs hydration. The key is to choose a lightweight formula that won’t add extra grease. Look for moisturizers that are labeled “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic,” which is just a fancy way of saying they won’t clog your pores. Gel moisturizers are a fantastic option because they feel super light and absorb quickly without leaving a heavy feeling behind.

Dry or Dehydrated

Does your skin ever feel tight, itchy, or a little rough? That’s a classic sign of dry skin. Dry skin doesn’t produce enough natural oils, which can lead to flakiness, irritation, and sensitivity. Giving it the right kind of moisture is essential to keep it feeling comfortable and smooth. When looking for a moisturizer, seek out hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and ceramides. These ingredients help add moisture back into the skin and support its protective barrier. For very dry skin, a cream formula will often provide more lasting hydration than a lighter lotion, leaving your skin feeling soft and nourished.

Sensitive

Sensitive skin tends to react to, well, almost everything. If you notice redness, stinging, or itchiness after using certain products, your skin is probably on the sensitive side. The goal for this skin type is to keep things simple and gentle. Choose moisturizers with short ingredient lists that are free from potential irritants like synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals. A dermatologist-developed approach is always a great sign that a product is formulated with care. Always look for non-comedogenic formulas to ensure the product is gentle and won’t clog pores, helping your skin stay calm and clear.

Normal or Combination

If you’re dealing with an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) but have drier cheeks, you have combination skin. It’s super common and just means different parts of your face have different needs. You might notice that your nose gets shiny during the day while the skin around your mouth feels a bit dry. For this skin type, a balanced approach is best. You can apply an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to the drier areas of your face and use a lighter touch on the oily T-zone. Finding the right skincare set can also help you create a routine that addresses all of your skin’s needs at once.

What to Look for in a Tween Face Moisturizer

Walking down the skincare aisle can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to find the right products for young, changing skin. It’s not about grabbing the prettiest bottle or the one you see all over social media. The best approach is to become a label-reader and focus on what’s inside. For tweens, the goal is simple: find a moisturizer that hydrates, protects, and balances their skin without causing irritation or clogging pores.

A great tween moisturizer should feel comfortable, absorb easily, and be made with gentle, effective ingredients. It’s also important to consider what isn’t in the formula. Harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, and heavy oils have no place in a tween’s daily routine. Instead, you’ll want to look for simple, supportive formulas that build a foundation for a lifetime of healthy skin habits. Think of it as choosing the right fuel for their skin; you want something clean, nourishing, and straightforward. By focusing on a few key qualities, you can cut through the noise and find a product that truly supports their skin's health. Here are the four key things to check for when choosing the perfect face moisturizer for your tween.

Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Formulas

Tween skin produces natural oils, and the last thing you want is a heavy cream that feels greasy or clogs pores. Look for products described as “lightweight” or “gel-cream,” as these textures provide hydration without the extra weight. It’s also crucial to choose a formula that is non-comedogenic. This is just a technical term meaning the product is specifically formulated to not block pores, which is a must for preventing breakouts. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides are excellent because they deliver moisture and support the skin barrier without feeling heavy, making them perfect for young, sensitive skin.

Gentle, Fragrance-Free Ingredients

A tween’s skin is still developing, which means it can be more sensitive to irritation. That’s why a gentle, minimalist approach is always best. When you’re looking at an ingredient list, shorter is often better. Steer clear of products with synthetic fragrances, dyes, or drying alcohols, as these are common culprits for redness and sensitivity. Even natural fragrances from essential oils can be irritating for some. Choosing fragrance-free products helps minimize the risk of a reaction and keeps the focus on what skin actually needs: simple, effective hydration. This aligns with a Beyond Clean Beauty philosophy, which prioritizes safe, non-toxic ingredients.

Age-Appropriate Actives

The world of skincare is full of powerful “active” ingredients designed to address concerns like fine lines or significant discoloration. However, these are not necessary for tween skin. Ingredients like retinol and high-concentration exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic acid) can be far too aggressive for a young skin barrier, potentially causing more harm than good. For tweens, the focus should be on foundational ingredients that hydrate and protect. Gentle actives like niacinamide can help balance oiliness, but the overall goal is to support the skin’s natural function, not to introduce intense treatments. Save the stronger stuff for much later.

Daily SPF Protection

If you can help your tween build one lifelong skincare habit, make it daily sun protection. Sun damage happens over time, even from everyday exposure on cloudy days. The easiest way to incorporate this step is by using a moisturizer that already contains broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. This combines two essential steps, hydration and protection, into one quick application every morning. Using a daily sunscreen helps shield their skin from harmful UV rays, which is fundamental for maintaining its health for years to come. If their favorite moisturizer is SPF-free, just be sure to layer a separate sunscreen on top.

The Best Ingredients for Tween Moisturizers

Scanning the ingredient list on a moisturizer can feel overwhelming. But knowing a few key players makes all the difference in finding a product that works for your tween. Here are the best, gentlest, and most effective ingredients to look for.

Hyaluronic Acid: For Hydration

Think of hyaluronic acid as a big drink of water for the skin. It’s a superstar hydrator that holds a massive amount of moisture, helping skin look plump and feel comfortable. What makes it so great for tweens is that it delivers this hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. Because it’s a substance our bodies already produce, it’s incredibly gentle. Its ability to attract and hold moisture makes it a top-tier ingredient for a healthy complexion.

Niacinamide: To Balance Oil and Pores

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is a fantastic multi-tasker for young skin. As tweens' skin changes, they might notice more oiliness or larger-looking pores. Niacinamide helps gently balance oil production and refine the look of pores without being harsh. It’s also known for its calming properties, which helps with redness or irritation. A moisturizer with niacinamide is a great way to support clear, balanced skin.

Ceramides: To Protect the Skin Barrier

If you think of skin cells as bricks, ceramides are the mortar holding them together. These lipids are naturally part of the skin and are essential for a strong skin barrier. This barrier is your skin’s first line of defense, locking in moisture and keeping out irritants. For tweens, whose skin barrier is still developing, ceramides help reinforce this natural protection. By maintaining a healthy skin barrier, you’re helping their skin stay resilient, hydrated, and less prone to sensitivity.

Glycerin & Squalane: For Gentle Moisture

Glycerin and squalane are a dream team for gentle hydration. Glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin, while squalane is a lightweight oil that locks it in. Squalane mimics the skin’s natural sebum, helping to soften skin without feeling greasy. Together, they provide a perfect dose of hydration that feels comfortable and won’t clog pores. This combination is ideal for tween skin, ensuring it stays soft and balanced.

Ingredients to Avoid in Tween Moisturizers

Knowing what to look for in a tween moisturizer is only half the battle. Just as important is knowing which ingredients to avoid. Young skin is still developing its protective barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation from the harsh chemicals, exfoliants, and potent actives often found in adult skincare products. The goal for tween skin is to support its natural balance, not to attack it with aggressive ingredients it simply doesn’t need. Adopting a “less is more” approach and carefully reading ingredient lists will help you protect your tween’s skin for the long run. This is a core part of our Beyond Clean Beauty promise: creating formulas that are not only effective but also consciously formulated for the unique needs of young skin. When you're standing in the skincare aisle, it can be tempting to grab something with a long list of impressive-sounding ingredients. But for tweens, simplicity is key. Their skin doesn't need complex formulas or intense resurfacing agents. Instead, focusing on gentle, supportive ingredients helps build a foundation for a lifetime of healthy skin. By learning to spot the potential irritants, you can confidently choose products that will nourish and protect, rather than strip and sensitize.

Harsh Alcohols & Drying Agents

When you see “alcohol” on an ingredient list, it’s important to know which kind you’re looking at. Some, like cetyl alcohol, are fatty alcohols that actually help moisturize the skin. However, harsh, drying alcohols like SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol can strip the skin of its natural oils. This disrupts the skin barrier, leading to dryness, redness, and irritation. For tweens with oily skin, this can backfire by causing their skin to produce even more oil to compensate. It’s also wise to stay away from strong acids or harsh physical scrubs unless a dermatologist specifically recommends them, as these can be too abrasive for a tween’s delicate skin.

Synthetic Fragrances & Irritants

That lovely floral or fruity scent in a moisturizer might seem nice, but it’s often a red flag for irritation. Synthetic fragrances are one of the most common causes of skin sensitivity, contact dermatitis, and allergic reactions. For tweens, whose skin can be unpredictable, it’s best to avoid products with added fragrance altogether. Don’t be fooled by products labeled “unscented,” as they can sometimes contain masking fragrances to cover up chemical smells. Instead, look for products that are explicitly labeled “fragrance-free.” This ensures no irritating scents have been added, making the product a much safer choice for maintaining calm, happy skin.

Heavy, Pore-Clogging Oils

While moisturizing is crucial, using the wrong kind of oils can lead to clogged pores and breakouts, a common concern for tweens. Ingredients that are “comedogenic” are known to clog pores. Heavy oils and butters, such as coconut oil and cocoa butter, can be too rich for the face and may contribute to congestion. When shopping for a tween moisturizer, look for formulas that are labeled “non-comedogenic,” which means they’ve been formulated specifically not to clog pores. Products described as “oil-free” are also a great option, especially for tweens with oily or combination skin, as they provide hydration without adding extra grease or weight.

Retinoids & Strong Actives

Lately, there’s been a lot of buzz about tweens using potent skincare ingredients meant for adults, but this is a trend to skip. Actives like retinoids (retinol, retinal), peptides, and high-strength exfoliating acids are designed to address mature skin concerns like fine lines and loss of firmness. These ingredients are far too powerful for young skin and can severely damage its developing barrier, leading to painful redness, peeling, and sensitivity. As our founding dermatologist emphasizes, tween skincare should focus on the fundamentals: gentle cleansing, balancing hydration, and sun protection. Leave the high-performance actives for later in life.

Our Top Face Moisturizer Picks for Tweens

Finding the right moisturizer can feel overwhelming, but we've made it easy. Here are five fantastic, gentle, and effective options perfect for tween skin. These picks address the common needs of young complexions, from lightweight hydration to barrier protection, ensuring there's a great choice for every skin type.

1. Bright Girl Balancing Act Moisturizer

Our Balancing Act Moisturizer was created by a dermatologist specifically for young skin. Its cloud-like texture absorbs quickly, providing 24-hour hydration without a greasy feel. Packed with gentle soothers like chamomile and shea butter, it helps support a healthy skin barrier for a fresh, balanced complexion.

2. CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

CeraVe’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion is a fantastic drugstore option because it includes SPF 30. This two-in-one product moisturizes with ceramides to support the skin barrier while providing essential daily sun protection. It’s a lightweight, oil-free formula that makes building a healthy morning routine simple and effective.

3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream

For tweens who dislike heavy creams, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream is a perfect fit. Its unique gel formula provides intense hydration with hyaluronic acid but feels weightless and absorbs instantly. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores, making it ideal for oily or combination skin types.

4. Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

If your tween has sensitive skin, Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer is the go-to choice. It is specifically formulated without common irritants like dyes, fragrances, or parabens. This gentle cream provides effective hydration with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, keeping skin calm, comfortable, and moisturized without causing irritation.

5. Bubble LevelUp Balancing Gel Moisturizer

Bubble’s LevelUp Balancing Gel Moisturizer is a popular pick that tweens love. This lightweight gel moisturizer is designed to balance the skin’s natural oils while providing just the right amount of hydration. It leaves skin with a fresh, non-greasy finish, making it a great daily option for normal to oily skin.

How to Choose the Right Moisturizer for Your Tween

Finding the right moisturizer can feel like a big task, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With so many products out there, the key is to focus on your tween’s unique skin needs and start with the basics. A great moisturizer will keep their skin hydrated and comfortable without causing irritation or breakouts. By following a few simple steps, you can confidently choose a product that helps them build a healthy skincare routine for years to come. Think of it as a simple, three-step checklist to find their perfect match.

Assess Their Skin Type at Home

Before you add anything to your cart, take a moment to understand your tween’s skin. Is it often shiny? That could signal oily skin. Does it feel tight or flaky? It’s likely on the dry side. Some areas might be oily while others are dry, which points to combination skin. A buyer's guide for tween skincare can be a helpful resource, as choosing the right moisturizer is important because their skin is going through so many changes. You don’t need special tools for this; just observe how their skin looks and feels after cleansing. This simple step is the foundation for picking a product that will actually work for them.

Always Patch Test New Products

This step is non-negotiable, especially for young, sensitive skin. A patch test helps you see how their skin will react to a new product before applying it all over their face. Simply apply a small amount of the moisturizer to a discreet area, like behind the ear or on the inner arm, and wait 24 to 48 hours. If you see any redness, itching, or irritation, that product isn’t the right fit. If your child has sensitive skin, it's a good idea to do a small patch test first. Stop using it if irritation occurs. This quick check can save you from a lot of frustration and discomfort down the road.

Start with a Gentle Formula

When it comes to tween skincare, less is more. Look for products that are gentle, won't clog pores (non-comedogenic), and add moisture to the skin. The best formulas are often simple and free from unnecessary additives. It’s a good idea to avoid products with strong scents because they can irritate the skin. Instead, focus on moisturizers with clean, supportive ingredients that are specifically designed for young skin. Our entire Beyond Clean Beauty philosophy is built on this idea: providing effective care without harsh chemicals, so you can feel good about what your tween is putting on their skin.

Common Mistakes When Buying Tween Moisturizer

Finding the perfect moisturizer for your tween can feel like a big task, and it’s easy to make a few missteps along the way. To help you get it right, let’s walk through some of the most common mistakes. This will help you feel confident in your choices and support your tween in building a routine for happy, healthy skin.

Mistake #1: Skipping Moisturizer on Oily Skin

It’s one of the biggest myths in skincare: if your skin is oily, you should skip moisturizer. In reality, oily skin still needs hydration. When skin gets dehydrated, it can actually overcompensate by producing even more oil, which can lead to clogged pores and more breakouts. The key is to choose the right kind of moisturizer. A lightweight, non-comedogenic formula will provide essential hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. This helps keep the skin’s moisture barrier balanced and calm, preventing that cycle of dryness and excess oil production.

Mistake #2: Thinking More Products are Better

With so many multi-step routines trending online, it’s easy to think that more is more. For young skin, however, a simple and consistent routine is far more effective. A tween’s skin doesn’t need a complex lineup of serums, toners, and masks. Overloading their skin with too many products can cause irritation, sensitivity, and breakouts. The best approach is to stick to the basics: a gentle cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, and a daily sunscreen in the morning. Our skincare sets are designed around this simple philosophy, giving your tween exactly what she needs and nothing she doesn’t.

Mistake #3: Using Your Own Skincare Products

It might seem convenient to let your tween use your moisturizer, but adult skincare products are formulated for different needs. Mature skin often requires richer creams and potent active ingredients that can be too harsh for a tween’s more delicate skin. These powerful formulas can disrupt their skin barrier, leading to redness, dryness, and irritation. It’s always best to choose products specifically designed for young skin. These formulas use gentle, age-appropriate ingredients that provide the right balance of hydration and support, which is central to our Beyond Clean Beauty promise.

Mistake #4: Forgetting to Moisturize with Acne Routines

Many products designed to help with breakouts contain ingredients that can be very drying. While they work to reduce oil and clear pores, they can also strip the skin of its natural moisture. Skipping moisturizer when using these products is a recipe for irritation, flakiness, and a compromised skin barrier. A good moisturizer is a crucial partner in any routine focused on managing breakouts. It replenishes lost hydration and soothes the skin, helping it stay balanced and resilient. This kind of supportive skincare guidance is key for long-term skin health.

How to Add Moisturizer to a Daily Routine

Getting a moisturizer into your tween’s daily life doesn’t have to be complicated. The best skincare routines are the ones you can actually stick with, and for tweens, that means keeping it simple and quick. A great routine is built around two key moments: morning and night. By dedicating just a minute or two at the start and end of each day, your tween can build a healthy habit that supports their skin for years to come.

The goal is consistency, not a 10-step regimen with dozens of products. A gentle cleanser and a reliable moisturizer are the perfect foundation. This simple pairing helps keep skin balanced, hydrated, and protected without feeling like a chore. Think of it as the skincare equivalent of brushing your teeth, a small but essential step for long-term health. By framing it as a normal part of their daily schedule, you can help them establish a positive skincare routine that feels manageable and rewarding.

Applying in the Morning (with SPF!)

The morning routine is all about hydration and protection for the day ahead. After washing their face with a gentle cleanser, your tween should apply a thin layer of moisturizer to their damp skin. This helps lock in moisture and creates a smooth base. The most important part of any morning routine is sun protection. Using a moisturizer with at least SPF 30 is a fantastic way to combine two steps into one. Daily sunscreen use is one of the best things anyone can do for their skin’s health, so starting this habit early is a huge win.

Applying in the Evening

At night, the focus shifts to cleansing and replenishing the skin. The evening routine is just as simple as the morning one: wash the day off, then apply moisturizer. After cleansing away dirt, oil, and any sunscreen, a good moisturizer helps rehydrate the skin and support its natural barrier while your tween sleeps. This is the perfect time to use a calming, gentle formula like our Balancing Act Moisturizer, which works overnight to keep skin feeling soft and balanced without clogging pores. It’s a soothing way to end the day and wake up with happy skin.

Building a Consistent Habit

Helping your tween build a consistent skincare habit is really about teaching them a simple form of self-care. When a routine is easy to follow, it’s more likely to stick. Encourage them to keep their products visible on the bathroom counter as a daily reminder. A simple morning and evening routine can help them feel more confident and in control of their skin. It’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about creating a healthy practice that makes them feel good. This small daily ritual is a great way to empower them to take care of themselves, which is what being a Bright Girl is all about.

Related Articles

• Buyer’s Guide for Tween and Teen Skincare: Facial Moisturizers
• Dermatologist-Recommended Moisturizer for Teens
• How to Build Your First Skincare Routine for Tweens
• Tween Skincare Set for Beginners

Frequently Asked Questions

My tween has oily skin. Will a moisturizer make her breakouts worse? This is a super common concern, but the right moisturizer will actually help, not hurt. When oily skin gets dehydrated (often from harsh cleansers), it produces even more oil to compensate, which can lead to more breakouts. A lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic moisturizer gives the skin the hydration it needs. This helps signal to the skin that it can calm down on oil production, leading to a more balanced complexion over time.

Can my tween just use my adult face cream? It’s best to get them their own product. Skincare designed for adults often contains potent ingredients like retinoids or strong acids that address concerns like fine lines. These ingredients are far too aggressive for young, developing skin and can easily cause irritation, redness, and damage to their skin barrier. Always opt for formulas created specifically for the needs of young skin, which focus on gentle hydration and protection.

At what age should a tween start using a daily moisturizer? There isn't a magic number, but a great time to start is when you notice their skin beginning to change, which often happens around the start of puberty. If they are experiencing new dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity, introducing a simple routine with a gentle cleanser and moisturizer is a perfect next step. Think of it less as a specific age and more as a response to their skin's evolving needs.

What's the most important thing to look for on the ingredient label? Instead of focusing on one single ingredient, look for what isn't there. The best moisturizers for tweens have simple, clean formulas. The most important labels to find are "fragrance-free" and "non-comedogenic." Avoiding synthetic fragrances minimizes the risk of irritation and allergic reactions, while a non-comedogenic formula ensures the product won't clog pores, which is essential for preventing breakouts.

Does my tween need separate day and night moisturizers? No, keeping it simple is the key to building a consistent habit. One great, gentle moisturizer can work perfectly for both morning and night. The only difference in the morning routine should be the non-negotiable final step: sunscreen. If their daily moisturizer doesn't contain at least SPF 30, just be sure they apply a separate sunscreen on top before heading out the door.