Tweens and Hygiene

The tween years are all about finding a unique sense of style. This also applies to cosmetics and accessories. Allow your tween to choose their shampoos, soaps and oral care products. This will encourage them to take interest in their hygiene without you having to ask.
Brushing teeth can be a struggle at this age. Your child may go in the bathroom for 30 seconds and declare that he or she has brushed. Kids should know that good oral care is just as important as taking a shower, especially if your child has braces. Make the process a little easier and ensure they are brushing for the proper amount of time by keeping a two minute timer in the bathroom.
"Oral health is an important issue particularly for kids in their adolescent years. Tooth decay is still recognized as the most common chronic disease affecting children," says Dr. Salzer, orthodontist, dentist and mother of a tween. "Not only can poor oral hygiene affect the health and well-being of a child, it also plays a role in self-esteem."
Puberty is the first time adolescents have to deal with body odor. Help your tween understand how to control odors by explaining the difference between deodorant, which controls bacteria while adding fragrance, and antiperspirant, which stops or limits sweating. Remind your tween that both deodorant and antiperspirant will help if they put it on before they start sweating, not after.
Changing hormones typically bring about oilier skin, especially on the nose and forehead. Teach your tween to wash their face once or twice a day with a cleanser and discourage them from picking, as this causes inflammation and scarring.