How to Encourage Self-Care Habits in Teens (Without Forcing It)

Getting teens to care about hygiene, skincare or even basic self-care can feel like a constant battle. The more you remind them, the less interested they seem. I’ve re-learned (and now remember) that self-care for teens isn’t something you can enforce. In fact, the more you push it, the more they resist. Especially when it comes to someone living with an ODD. What does work? Creating an environment where they can explore it on their own terms.

Because here’s the truth: teens don’t want to be told who they are, they want to figure it out themselves.

What has helped us when it comes to encouraging self care habits for teenagers

If you’ve ever bought your teen a new face wash, deodorant or outfit only to watch it sit untouched… welcome to my world! I am doing my best to not buy unnecessary items and trying to encourage the teen and tween to donate before they buy new items but I’m also realizing that they are in an experimenting phase and know that their bodies are changing dramatically in this in-between phase.

1. Leave It Out (Yes, Really)

One of the simplest ways I’ve encouraged self-care at home? Instead of reminding them to wash their face or wear deodorant, leave options out where they’ll naturally notice them: Face washes on the counter. Different deodorants in the bathroom. Skincare options within reach. One of the most effective ways to build teen self-care habits is to make products easily accessible. This small shift encourages curiosity without pressure. Also saves us parents from nagging. 

I left things out and slowly, curiosity took over.

Akira, who once refused to use anything, started experimenting on her own. Trying different face washes. Testing what worked for her.

When it came to deodorant, she surprised me. She gravitated toward Secret, but not the one I use. While I prefer the wet/gel version, she’s all about the dry powder stick.

My mission was successful! We no longer had to smell sweaty teen smells. I know we should be using natural deodorants but honestly none of those natural brands worked for me so I understand why she opted for Secret herself. Self-care becomes their own when they get to choose. I had it all out but didn’t push one brand over another.

2. Offer Simple, Teen-Friendly Skincare Options (Without the Lecture)

If you want teens to build a skincare routine, keep it simple and approachable.

Overcomplicated routines can feel overwhelming, especially for beginners. That’s why choosing the right products matters.

Canadian brand Nudl is a great example of teen-friendly skincare:

• Gentle formulas for changing skin
• Minimal steps (perfect for beginners) but still has a range for those teens who want the full Sephora-esque experience
• Clean ingredients parents can feel good about. 

Instead of saying “you should wash your face,” you’re giving them tools to discover why they might want to.

Akira uses the facial cleanser and moisturizer but they do have toner and serums as well – which are more for the ‘cool’ factor because let’s face it teens don’t need serums. Am I right? 

Mind you, I still can’t get her to lotion her body daily – but one day we’ll get there. I didn’t really start until I was in my 30s so we’ll give it time!

3. Let Them Define Their Own Style

Self-care isn’t just about hygiene, it’s also about identity.

And fashion? That’s a huge part of it. Or… lack of fashion I guess! 

Some teens are experimental. Some change their style every week. Some stick to hoodies and one pair of Jill Yoga pants on repeat (that’s our household). 

It’s tempting to step in, but this phase is important. It’s how they figure out how they want to present themselves to the world and I remember growing up in the crazy Dubai heat but wearing thick baggy jeans, a tee and a “lumberjack” (Flannel for the Canadians). That was my style and no one would say otherwise!

Even “no effort” is, in its own way, a choice. Right?

The goal isn’t to control it. I believe it’s to give them space to explore it safely and confidently. I just wish I could convince her to hang her clothes instead of pilling it all on the floor. That’s an ongoing battle at ours. At least she does her own laundry and will soon feel the pain of washing unworn clothes. 

4. Don’t Ignore What’s Happening Physically

While teens are figuring things out externally, their bodies are also going through major changes. Growth spurts can impact everything from posture to joint pain to energy levels. 

This is where the behind-the-scenes parenting comes in:

• Keeping up with regular doctor’s appointments
• Paying attention to posture and movement
• Considering support like osteopathy for alignment and growing bodies

Even if they brush it off, these check-ins matter more than they realize. Took us a while to stop saying “oh it’s growing pains’ and actually step in and seek professional advice. A visit with a naturopath is next on our list!

5. Footwear Matters More Than They Think

This is one area teens rarely prioritize but it makes a huge difference. They want the coolest kicks but are those shoes providing enough support?

Whether they’re at school all day, walking around the city or traveling, the wrong shoes can lead to discomfort, fatigue and even long-term strain.

Brands like ALLSWIFIT are becoming popular for a reason and luckily both kids thought the design was cool. We’ve been  testing their shoes out for a few months and find them great for active families and our travels. Mine have been wearing these more frequently than the Nikes they bought last fall and I like that they’re cheaper than HOKA but still provides the same levels of support. In fact, the grandparents are now wearing them too (which is cool according to the kids but they don’t want me matching them!) .

Why ALLSWIFT Nortiv 8s are worth considering:

• APMA Seal of Acceptance (recognized for promoting foot health)
• Ultra-light cushioning that reduces impact (great during growth spurts)
• Breathable mesh to keep feet comfortable all day
• Supportive structure without feeling bulky

6. Self-Care Isn’t a Lecture. It’s a Lifestyle They Observe

At the end of the day, teens are watching more than they’re listening.

They notice:

• How you take care of yourself
• The products you use
• The routines you keep
• The way you talk about your own body

Creating a home where self-care is visible, accessible and judgment-free goes a lot further than any conversation.

Final Thoughts: Building Self-Care Habits That Stick

If you’re trying to teach teens self-care, the goal isn’t control—it’s consistency and exposure. It’s about creating opportunities.

Make it visible. Keep it simple. Give them space.

Leave things out. Offer options. Step back.

Because when they discover what works for them—whether it’s a skincare routine, a favourite deodorant or their personal style—it sticks in a way that no reminder ever could.