How to manage teenage acne?

Feb 3

Before diving into treatment options, it's essential to understand why acne develops in the first place. During puberty, hormonal changes (especially an increase in androgens) cause the oil (sebaceous) glands in the skin to produce more oil. In addition, family history of acne and bacteria also play a role. Skin and hair care products as well as lifestyle choices like wearing helmets can also contribute.

Common Types of Acne in Teenagers:

Whiteheads: Clogged pores with a white bump.
Blackheads: enlarged pores filled with black material
Pimples: Inflamed, red bumps that may contain pus.
Cysts: Large, painful lumps that develop deep within the skin.

Effective Acne Treatments for Teenagers

There are various treatment options for teen acne, ranging from over-the-counter solutions to prescription treatments.

Over-the-Counter Treatments:

For many teens, over-the-counter products are effective in managing mild to moderate acne. Look for products that contain one or more of the following active ingredients:

Benzoyl Peroxide: A powerful acne-fighting ingredient that helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and dries out excess oil. It can be found in many acne gels, creams, and cleansers.
Salicylic Acid: This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) helps exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and preventing clogged pores.
Adapalene: A topical retinoid that helps unclog pores and prevents new acne from forming. It requires weeks to months of continuous use to be effective, and can cause dryness.
Sulfur: Helps absorb excess oil and reduces the appearance of acne spots.

Prescription Treatments:

If over-the-counter treatments don’t provide relief, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger treatments tailored to your teen’s skin needs. These include topical medications, antibiotics, oral contraceptive pills, and isotretinoin.

Building an Effective Skincare Routine

A consistent skincare routine is crucial for acne management. Here’s how teenagers can build a basic routine:

Gentle Cleanser:

Use a mild, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) cleanser to wash your face twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. Avoid harsh scrubs, as they can irritate the skin and worsen acne.

Moisturizer:

Even if you have oily skin, it's important to moisturize. Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness or irritation caused by acne treatments.

Sunscreen:

Teens using acne medications like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids are more sensitive to the sun. Protect your skin by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.

Spot Treatments:

For occasional breakouts, teens can apply over-the-counter spot treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid directly to the affected area. At night, a “pimple patch” made from hydrocolloid can be helpful for some people.

Lifestyle Tips to Help Prevent Acne Breakouts

While treatments can go a long way in reducing acne, lifestyle factors can also play a significant role in managing breakouts. Here are some tips that may help prevent future acne flare-ups:

Maintain a Healthy Diet:

While there’s no single food that causes acne, a healthy diet can support clear skin. Some studies suggest that dairy products and foods with a high glycemic index (such as sugary snacks and white bread) may worsen acne.

Do NOT Touch Your Face:

Frequent touching of the face can transfer oils, dirt, and bacteria from your hands to your skin, increasing the likelihood of acne.

Change Pillowcases and Towels Regularly:

Pillowcases and towels can trap oils and bacteria, so it’s important to change them frequently to reduce the risk of acne flare-ups.

*Note this is not medical advice, and if you have specific questions you should contact your doctor.