Dr. Shaun Segal Uncovers Secrets to Glowing, Clear Skin – Naturally

Let’s be honest—every parent wants his or her child to be healthy, and healthy skin is included. Whether it’s the ubiquitous teenage acne, flaky dry patches, or that mysterious rash that pops up and disappears, clear, glowing skin is more than a beauty ideal—it’s a reflection of good health.

Hi there, I’m Dr. Shaun Segal, a pediatrician in Johannesburg. Today, I’d like to introduce you to some easy, natural solutions that keep children’s and adolescents’ skin clear and happy, without chemicals, costly treatments, or elaborate regimens.

1. What You Eat Shows Up on Your Skin

The first thing I check is when a child has persistent skin trouble. Their plate.

What we put into our bodies is what our skin uses to repair, guard, and radiate. A diet-friendly skin is full of:

Fruits & Veggies – Particularly those with lots of vitamins A and C, such as carrots, spinach, oranges, and berries.

Healthy Fats – Omega-3s in walnuts, flaxseeds, and fish combat inflammation and dryness.

Hydration – Clear skin begins with water. Children require more water than we realize, particularly if they’re active.

Stay away from excess sugar and processed foods—these can cause acne or exacerbate skin conditions.

2. Clean Skin, Not Too Clean

It’s easy to get crazy with scrubs, face washes, and antibacterial soaps—particularly if your kid is getting acne. However, excessive cleaning removes the skin’s natural coating and makes it worse.

Here’s what I suggest:

 Use a mild cleanser, not adult acne wash.

Wash your face twice a day, particularly after sweating.

Never scrub. Let the water and cleanser work for you.

No sharing towels or pillowcases—bacteria spread easily.

For toddlers or children with dry or sensitive skin, moisturizing after bathing is the golden rule.

3. Keep Hands Off the Face

This may be the most difficult habit to break, but it’s so crucial.

Touching the face spreads bacteria and oil.

Popping or picking pimples causes inflammation and scarring.

Placing the face in your hands (particularly while reading/studying or scrolling) may block pores.

In my clinic, I have a tendency to demonstrate what’s on kids’ fingertips with a magnifier—it’s often sufficient to get them to leave it alone!

Also Read:-  Dr Shaun Segal’s Guide to Adult Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

4. Sun Protection is Essential

It doesn’t matter if you live on the beach or not: UV rays are omnipresent, even on cloudy days!

Daily routines I recommend:

 A child-safe sunscreen with SPF 30+

 Hats and shade at peak sun hours

 Sunglasses that shield both eyes and the skin around them

And no, sunscreen does not lead to pimples—it safeguards against sunburn, premature aging, and long-term damage.

5. Watch for Signs That Something’s Off

Some problems with skin extend beyond what can be seen. These are the warning signs I ask parents to watch for:

Rashes that don’t dissipate

Itchy skin patches that come back again and again

Sudden breakouts after new foods or products

Extreme dryness or peeling

Sometimes it’s eczema. Sometimes, an allergy. And sometimes it’s the skin’s way of saying something’s not right inside. Don’t ignore your gut—if you’re worried, come in. A quick checkup can make all the difference.

7. Stress Less, Glow More

Chronic stress affects hormone levels, which in turn can trigger acne and sensitivity. “Stress shows up on your skin,” says Dr. Shaun Segal. Regular mindfulness practices such as yoga, journaling, or breathing exercises help maintain hormonal balance and skin clarity.

Even a few minutes of meditation or a daily walk can help reduce cortisol levels and promote overall skin wellness.

My Golden Rule for Clear Skin? Keep it Simple.

As a doctor of pediatrics, I’ve watched kids and teenagers attempt all sorts of complicated regimens. But let’s be real?. The best routine is easy, gentle, and consistent.

What I say to young patients is:

“Clear skin isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being kind to your body, inside and out.”

Final Thoughts: Glow Starts from Within

Glowing skin does not exist in a bottle. It exists in good food, intelligent habits, and a little patience. If your child has problematic skin, do not freak out—and do not add on products. Go back to basics, and if you need guidance, I am here.

Because perfect skin isn’t about being perfect. It’s about balance, it’s about health, and it’s about feeling good in your skin.