Teen Health

Why experts are warning parents about tween skincare routines—and what to watch for

These routines often include multiple “active” ingredients—like exfoliating acids, retinoids, and fragrances—that can irritate or even permanently sensitize young skin.

Are teens consuming too much caffeine?

A new national poll shows that 1 in 4 teens are consuming caffeine daily. But many parents say they don’t know the safe or appropriate caffeine levels for teens.

The Surgeon General just called for a warning label for social media apps—here’s why

“It is time to require a surgeon general’s warning label on social media platforms, stating that social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents."

Are girls’ periods starting earlier? Study says yes

A new large-scale study found that the age at which girls start menstruating is getting younger—and cycles are taking longer to become regular.

When it comes to teens, this psychologist has one major tip—no tech in the bedroom

This tip can make a world of difference in your teen’s mood, mental health, and online safety.

How to raise a healthy gamer, according to an expert

There is room for video games in a well-rounded kid’s life—if you’re smart about it.

Parents go viral on TikTok for *genius* ‘period board’ idea for their daughters

A period board is just what the doctor ordered when it's that time of the month.

Your daughter’s biggest questions about puberty and periods—answered by an OB-GYN

Exactly what to say when the questions start rolling in.

The 5 best vitamins for teens, according to a dietitian

Most teens rely on processed foods for calories, but vitamins can help.

Are energy drinks safe for kids?

Although amounts vary, most energy drinks contain 100 to 300 mg of caffeine per serving. Coffee has 95 mg.

Spotting the signs of eating disorders in kids and teens

More children and teens than ever are struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating. An expert shares what to know.

How to talk to kids about fentanyl—from parents who have experienced its devastation

After losing their son Charlie, Mary and Ed Ternan made it their mission to inform young people and their families about the dangers of fentanyl and, increasingly, other chemicals in the drug supply.

Talking to teens about suicide and self-harm can save lives

But there are insidious myths that often prevent parents from having these conversations.

Florida bill would ban girls from talking about their periods in school

Many girls get their first periods before sixth grade.

Kids should be getting the HPV vaccine at age 9, experts say

“We don’t have any other vaccine that prevents cancer.”

The youth mental health crisis is improving—slightly, CDC says

Here are 6 ways parents can help.

Should I let my kid play football? Doctors and parents weigh in

Damar Hamlin’s collapse sparked discussions surrounding the safety of contact sports and our children.

Birth control linked to higher rates of depression in teens with ADHD

Young women with ADHD who took the pill were 6 times more likely to develop depression than those without ADHD who also took birth control.

Teens need more sleep—and using bright light therapy could help

Adolescents need 8 to 10 hours of shut-eye for optimal physical health, emotional wellbeing, and strong academic performance.

After Roe, a pediatrician shares how the health of America’s teens are at risk

Unplanned pregnancies are universally upending for teens, but the protections Roe v. Wade afforded guaranteed they didn't have to be life-defining or even life-ending.