As a mum of a young adult and a teenager, I can imagine how frustrating it can be if your teens are dealing with mild to severe acne.
Besides the obvious physical effects of acne, it may also pose psychosocial and emotional issues such as low self esteem and social isolation in the lives of teenagers.
This is that period in their lives when they want to be socially accepted and are quite conscious of the way they look.
Research has it that 8 out of 10 teenagers will get acne at some point between the ages of 12 and 19.
Various factors affect the development of acne in teenagers. These include genetics, diet or hormonal changes.
What Causes Acne in Teenagers?
Acne Vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological conditions in both teens and adults. It occurs when the pores are clogged with a substance called Sebum , a naturally occurring oil in the skin and scalp.
Acne may appear on the face, chest, neck or back as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples or cysts.
The glands which secret sebum (the sebaceous glands) become overactive during these years and sometimes tend to secret excess sebum due to hormonal changes in teenagers.
This excess oil along with dead skin cells and dirt on the surface of the skin can clog the pores and get infected by bacteria. This is what causes the bumps and swelling which result in acne.
It is therefore a good idea to imbibe good skincare habits and hygiene for the prevention of acne even before they begin to set in.
Skincare Tips and Habits for Teenagers
– Wash face twice daily
– Desist from touching the face as best as you can
– Don’t pop your pimple…..except of course, if you are Dr. Pimple popper 😉 , give it time to heal itself. Otherwise, you run the risk of scarring or getting black heads
– Exfoliate once to twice a week with a mild face mask to unclog the pores. Be careful not to use any harsh product as this may further irritate the skin.
– Eat healthy. Cut out processed foods and reduce sugar and dairy intake
– Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water
– Stay away from the sun as much as possible and apply a moisturizer with sunscreen
Natural/Home Remedies for the Prevention and Cure of Acne
1. Mix 1 part Apple Cider Vinegar to 3 parts water. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and use to cleanse the face. Let sit for about a minute. Rinse with cool water and part dry.
The organic acids in ACV help to destroy acne causing bacteria.
However, ensure to dilute as ACV can cause burns or irritation.
2. Apply a Honey and Turmeric Mask
Both honey and turmeric are two products which have excellent anti-bacterial, antioxidant and inflammatory properties.
Make a paste of honey and turmeric. Slather over the face. Leave on for 20 to 30 minutes and wash, first with warm water and mild soap, then with cool water.
Repeat twice weekly.
Advice to Parents
Parents, never assume that your teenagers know that you love them unconditionally, acne or not. Say it to them and mean it.
Let them know that this condition only lasts for a specific phase of their lives and that they are not alone.
Let them know also that there are effective anti acne products, medication and solutions available and acne tends to subside as one grows older.
Call us to book 📞 for a consultation for your teen and this will soon be a thing of the past.