Growing Bodies Need Growing Routines: Why Children's Personal Care Evolves With Age

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As children grow, their bodies and personal care needs change too. A baby's soft, delicate skin needs different care than the skin of a school-going child or a teenager experiencing puberty. However, many parents continue using the same products and routines for years without realising that their child's skin, hair, and hygiene needs change with age.

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We spoke to Prasanna Vasanadu, Parent Educator and Founder of Tikitoro, who explained why children's personal care evolves with age.

"Using age-appropriate personal care products and building the right hygiene habits at every stage helps support healthy growth. It also encourages children to become more confident, independent, and responsible for taking care of themselves," said Vasanadu. By understanding these changing needs, parents can make better choices that keep their children healthy while helping them develop good self-care habits that last a lifetime.

Early Childhood: Building the Basics

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"Children's skin is more sensitive and prone to dryness and irritation during the toddler and preschool years. At this age, the main goals of personal care should be washing hands frequently, brushing teeth twice a day, and keeping nails trimmed. Parents play a critical role in instilling these habits through fun, consistent routines that children look forward to," explained Vasanadu.

Using gentle, kid-friendly products that are free from harsh chemicals helps keep their skin healthy and protected. Bath time is also a great chance to teach children about staying clean in a fun and enjoyable way.

School Years: Building Healthy Habits and Independence

Children are exposed to more sweat, dust, and germs once they start school, as they grow more active and spend more time outdoors. "This is a good time to encourage children to take greater ownership of their personal hygiene - starting their own baths, washing their hands before eating, changing into fresh clothes after playing outside, and brushing their teeth without assistance," advised Vasanadu.

Parents can also teach children to use skincare products suited to their age, apply moisturiser when their skin feels dry, and wear sunscreen before heading outdoors. Learning these simple habits early helps children understand the importance of taking care of themselves and staying healthy.

The Tween Years: Getting Ready for Puberty

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As children enter their tween years, their bodies begin to change as they get closer to puberty. They may start sweating more, notice body odour, have oilier skin, or experience the occasional pimple. These changes are completely normal, and it's a good time to update their personal care routine with gentle, age-appropriate products formulated specifically for young, sensitive skin.

Tweens should be encouraged to:

• Bathe daily to maintain good overall hygiene
• Use shampoo suited to their hair type
• Use a mild face wash to keep their skin clean
• Start using a deo mist made specially for young skin, free from alcohol and aluminium, to gently manage body odour without irritation
• They should also develop simple habits like wearing clean clothes and brushing their teeth twice a day.

Selecting Age-Appropriate Products Is Important

Vasanadu concluded, "Children's skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults', which is why adult products should be avoided. Instead, parents should choose gentle, dermatologist-tested products designed specifically for kids and teens. Parents should also involve children in selecting their personal care products. This encourages responsibility while helping them understand why different stages of growth require different routines."