Teenagers and acne

Free from acne

The acne plague

Acne  is a condition that plagues teenagers, especially in areas such as Miami where the combination of heat and humidity can increase sebum production. Because acne is often exacerbated by an overproduction of sebum and a mix of kerotinocytes (skin cells), acne is very common in areas with high humidity and heat.

What causes acne?

Teenagers going through hormonal changes may suffer from problems with acne due to an increase in sebum production and the lack of knowledge about acne solutions. What can teens do to battle acne? Read on to find out the most recent products available to treat acne.

Acne develops in the form of comedones and closed-comedones. Comedones include blackheads and whiteheads and are characterized by an open enlarged pore that is clogged with sebum. Closed comedones are pimples that are often due to the overabundance of sebum created due to hormonal changes or an increase in kerotinocytes and sebum combined to clog pores. The hormone DHEA may also play a role in the acne condition. Teenagers and young people produce more of this hormone. The acne condition affects teenagers and those under the age of 25 most often.

Treatment options

Acne, however, is more than just a skin condition. Teenagers  who develop acne are often plagued by the social stigma attached to the condition. They may be ostracized by their peers or made fun of simply because they have a few more pimples than their friends or schoolmates. The social isolation can lead to many problems including  withdrawal, anger, social anxiety and even depression. If you or a teenager you know is suffering from acne, here are some tips to help you treat the condition.

Tips for acne treatment:
 

• See a dermatologist if possible. The American Academy of Dermatology will help you to find a licensed dermatologist in your areas.
• Be aware of the hair or skin products that you are using. They may exacerbate the condition.
• Try not to pick at acne. This can cause scarring. In addition, it can push the bacteria deeper beneath the skin and make the conditon worse.
• Get professional extraction facials if possible. Acne facials can ensure that the pores stay clear of any buildup. These should be performed at least once per month.
• Change your pillow and bedding often. Bacteria from the face can be transferred to the bed linens and pillows. Wash with bleach and antibacterial cleansers when possible.
• Use an over the counter acne treatment such as Neutrogena Advanced Solutions Complete Acne Therapy System 
• daily to treat the condition. These products contain either salicylic acid or benzol peroxide. Both of these ingredients are helpful in the treatment of acne.
• Try microdermabrasion to thouroughly cleanse the skin. Kits such as OLAY Regenerist - Microdermabrasion & Peel Kit
• can be purchased and used at home. Microdermabrasion should be used once or twice per week at most to encourage cell turnover and collagen production.  It will also reduce a buildup of kerotinocytes that lead to clogged pores.
• Consider taking a supplement that will contribute to the health of the skin such as Murad Pure Skin Clarifying Dietary Supplement 30 day supply. This product purports to cleanse the skin from the inside out.
• Try an at home facial peel such as Salicylic Acid 20% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)
• These products should be left on the skin no longer than the minimal recommended time initially to ensure skin safety.
• Do not over cleanse the skin. This may actually increase sebum production and contribute to increased acne. Use a mild cleanser and follow with over the counter or prescription medication if more harsh cleansers are not working. Follow cleansing with a toner to close pores.
• Prescription treatments include topical ointments and creams such as Differen, Azelex, Benzac, Cleocin, Benzaclin, and  Erythromycin. Acne treatments that come in pill form are antibiotics such as doxycycline, tetracycline, and minocycline.  Accutane is used for acne as well. Retin-A cream is also  often used to treat acne.  Prescription drugs are generally used to treat cystic acne.

Conclusion
Remember, acne only affects about 12% of the population over the age of 25 years old. Acne is not caused by dirty skin or the foods you eat. It is a hormonal condition that is controllable through continued treatment. It is very important to keep a consistent schedule when treating acne. When using an acne treatment, follow product recommendations in order to see best results. A combination of treatments is probably the best possible overall solution for most who suffer from the acne condition. For more acne get the free Acne Treatment Guide, and use one or all of the treatments listed above. Since acne is different for each individual, you might have to try many different methods before you discover one that works for you.  One size does not fit all when it comes to acne treatments. The key is to not give up. Keep trying methods until you find the one that fits your specific acne needs. It is a difficult battle, but with tenacity and trial and error, it can be won.