What Are The Best Acne Treatment Products For Teens
The best, most effective acne treatment routines will always include a 3 key products 1. a medicated cleanser, 2. an anti-acne treatment cream, 3. an oil-free moisturizer. Mild to moderate cases of acne can typically be treated effectively with topical creams alone as long as they are personalized to the users skin. That being said, one size fits all products that can be found in drugstores or online are frequently irritating eth skin or simply ineffective.
The MDacne app allows teens with acne, to get a full, medical-grade skin assessment from the comfort of their home. Based on their assessment, the app will recommend a full suite of products personalized to their skin. To achieve the best possible results, the app also provides ongoing progress monitoring, ongoing chat support with a board-certified dermatologist, and free fine-tuning of the products as needed.
Dont Underestimate The Emotional Toll Of Acne
In the past, some doctors and parents underestimated how much teen acne can affect a young person’s outlook on life, their social adjustment, and even their school performance. Today, we know that pimples can cause scarring not just on the skin, but also on the psyche, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The American Academy of Dermatology notes that teen acne can result in low self-esteem and self-confidence, poor body image, social withdrawal, and even depression, anger, and anxiety. For a study published in the SeptemberOctober 2016 issue of the Indian Journal of Dermatology, researchers surveyed 100 people age 15 and older on the psychosocial effects of acne. Although the study was small and conducted in a hospital setting, participants reported that the severity of their acne, and the dark spots left behind by the acne, had affected their social activities. They also reported that the site and severity of their acne led them to feel embarrassed, and that they changed the way they dressed depending on where their acne popped up, among other effects.
Similarly, a review of 13 studies that was published in March 2018 in the International Journal of Womens Dermatology suggests that acne has a substantial negative impact on patients self-esteem. More research is needed, but the authors also note that people with acne are at a higher risk for attempting suicide compared with those without the skin condition.
Whats A Simple Way To Treat Teen Acne
Everyones skin is unique, and with so many different potential triggers for breakouts, building an effective skincare routine for treating teen acne can feel like homework. But it doesnt have to.
Curology was designed to take the guesswork out of it with custom prescription skincare sent straight to your door. It was founded by mom and board-certified dermatologist, Nancy Satur, with her sons, Glenn and David.
Members are paired with an in-house dermatology provider, licensed to practice in your state. Just take a quick skin quiz and snap a few pictures. A provider will prescribe a Custom Formula with a mix of 3 active ingredients to treat breakouts .
Every member gets a custom formula for their specific skins needs. We also offer a gentle cleanser, a lightweight gel moisturizer, a deeply hydrating rich moisturizer, an acne body wash, and spot patchesweve got your whole routine covered.
Want to give it a shot? When your teens provider prescribes their Custom Formula, they can try any of our dermatologist-designed products for free. Go ahead and start your teens free trial of Curology acne treatment .
Were here to tell you what we know. Thats why our information is evidence-based and fact-checked by medical experts. Still, everyones skin is uniquethe best way to get advice is to talk to your healthcare provider.
*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Subscription is required. Trial is 30 days + $4.95 shipping and handling.
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Cerave Foaming Facial Cleanser
Best Acne Prevention Product for Teens With Oily Skin
This fragrance-free CeraVe cleanser effectively cleanses the skin, but doesnt strip it of its natural oils. That means it can rid the skin of potentially pore-clogging debris without drying it out. As mentioned, this is key for fighting acne, since stripped skin overproduces pore-clogging sebum. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help to provide a moisturizing cleanse. The cleanser also has niacinamide, which is anti-inflammatory and calms the skin.
How to Use: Wet your face with lukewarm water. Dispense about a dime-size amount of product onto your fingers. Use circular motions to gently massage the product into your face for about 30 seconds. Rinse off with lukewarm water, and gently pat dry with a towel. Use twice daily.
An Underlying Issue Could Be Causing Your Breakouts
Lastly, adult acne is sometimes a symptom of a more serious and systemic problem. In most cases such as these, acne breakouts coincide with other symptoms, such as hair loss, rapid weight fluctuations, irregular menstrual cycles, and more. Endocrine disorders, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and other hormonal diseases/disorders may be to blame if youre struggling with rapid onset severe acne alongside other symptoms like the ones mentioned above.
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Types Of Teenage Acne
If youre prone to acne, you may have noticed that your skin develops different types of acne lesions, such as whiteheads, blackheads and red, inflamed acne.
The specific type of acne you develop depends on how your pores are blocked. When a pore becomes completely blocked by sebum and dead skin cells, it can form into a whitehead an acne lesion thats either white or similar in color to your natural skin tone.
When a pore is blocked by sebum and dead skin cells, it can also form into a blackhead. The distinctive dark color of a blackhead is caused by a chemical reaction that occurs when dead skin cells and sebum are exposed to oxygen in the air.
Whiteheads and blackheads can be annoying and embarrassing, but they usually arent red or painful. However, some types of acne can become infected and inflamed, resulting in irritation, tenderness and pain when theyre touched.
When bacteria is trapped inside a pore thats blocked by sebum and dead skin cells, it can form into a red, inflamed pimple. When an inflamed pimple forms deep inside the skin, it can become a painful, pus-filled form of acne thats referred to as cystic acne.
Top Facials That Can Definitely Help
Environ Deep Cleansing Cool Peel to treat blackheads and mild acne.
Environ Blemish Control Cool Peel to treat moderate to sever acne, as well as to treat scarring and blemishes.
to treat all acne but very popular with teenage clients due to the gentle, natural but very effective skincare ingredients used in this facial.
Environ Focus on Even Tone to treat hyperpigmentation caused by acne.
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Wash Twice A Day With A Mild Facial Cleanser
The first step in any solid routine is a suitable cleanser for both morning and evening use. A cleanser designed to remove dirt, debris, dead skin cells, and excess oil without stripping the skin or drying it out is an absolute must. Cleansing the skin is super important because if our skin is not cleansed or not cleansed enough, the products we apply afterwards will not fully absorb. Also, the debris left on the skin will lead to clogged pores which cause breakouts. Research has shown that our skin is dirtier than ever due to pollution, makeup, and sebum , so make sure youre thoroughly cleansing your skin morning and night.
Benzoyl Peroxide And Salicylic Acid
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are the two most common over-the-counter acne treatments. Salicylic acid is commonly found in body washes, face washes, and astringents. You can sometimes find it in moisturizers, too. The purpose of salicylic acid is to get rid of the dead skin cells that can lead to non-inflammatory acne again, these include whiteheads and blackheads.
On the other hand, benzoyl peroxide is a stronger treatment for more severe breakouts, including inflammatory acne lesions. Not only does it dry up dead skin cells, but it can also help fight excess sebum and kill acne-causing bacteria, too.
For the occasional acne cyst, nodule, or pustule, a spot-treatment containing 2 to 5 percent benzoyl peroxide can do the trick. If you have frequent, widespread inflammatory acne breakouts though, you may consider using a face wash or a lotion with up to 10 percent benzoyl peroxide.
Since benzoyl peroxide is a strong ingredient, it can make your skin red and irritated at first. You may want to use these products once a day to start, and then gradually apply up to two times daily. Also, take care around clothing and colored hair, as benzoyl peroxide is known to stain.
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Teenager Acne: Why It Happens And How To Treat It
Teen acne is a normal part of puberty. Like getting hairs in places you didnt even know you had and making a fool of yourself in front of your crush. Fun times.
But it feels like the last drop. On top of everything youre dealing with right now, your skin looks like a mess. Your confidence is under your feet. You just want to fall asleep in your room and wake up 5 years from now when this nightmare is over.
But just because teen acne is normal, it doesnt mean its inevitable. A good skincare routine can treat teen acne and give you your clear skin back and a confidence boost in the process.
Heres how to treat teenager acne once and for all:
Effective Natural Remedies For Teen Acne
Teen acne can exacerbate the struggles most teens already face. Natural remedies can help.
My adolescent daughter was devastated. Granted, at that age, it didnt take much to pull her into an emotional frenzy. The culprit was a small, red bump that appeared on her forehead, smack in between her eyebrows.
What is this? she asks, pointing at her head.
What?
This, this, this, she says growing more agitated as she continues to point.
Oh that, I reply, nonchalantly as I continue chopping lettuce for dinner. Its just a pimple.
By the look on her face, you would think that I had just told her she had horns growing out of her head. She immediately runs upstairs to her bedroom and slams the door. I imagine while she is up there she will engage in a staring match with her new discovery, believing that if she looks at her pimple long enough in the mirror, and with enough hatred, it will magically disappear. If that fails, she will undoubtedly sneak into my makeup bag in search of cover-up.
I know the last thing my preteen wants to hear is that acne is a normal part of puberty. Or, that in a few years, her face will clear up. She especially doesnt want to hear me tell her that beauty is on the inside and it is more important that she be a kind, strong, caring individual. Oh no, she definitely doesnt want to hear any of that, as true as it all may be. What she wants is a solution and a definite plan of action on how to prevent these blemishes from spreading.
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Why Do Some People Get Acne And Others Don’t
It is not clear why some people are more prone to acne than others.
The exact cause of acne is not known, but hormones called androgens can play a role. Androgens increase in both boys and girls during puberty. Androgens make the skin’s oil glands get larger and make more sebum. Androgens also can increase because of hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills.
Genetics may also matter. If your parents had acne, you may have inherited that tendency.
Some medications can cause acne.
Cosmetics that have a greasy consistency may also clog pores. Water-based products are less likely to cause acne than oil-based makeup.
Other things that can make acne worse include:
- Friction caused by leaning on or rubbing the skin harsh scrubbing
- Picking or squeezing blemishes
- Pressure from bike helmets, backpacks, or tight collars
- Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women two to seven days before the start of the menstrual period
- Stress
What Is Teenage Acne
Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects 50 million Americans annually, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Acne has different forms. It can appear as blemishes like blackheads, whiteheads, pimples , and even as cysts. While most outgrow teen acne, it can cause embarrassment for adolescents. Social media campaigns such as#freethepimple, which launched in 2018 works to destigmatize acne and encourages teens to love their skin.
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How Can I Get Rid Of Acne
Despite best efforts, almost every preteen and teen will experience some acne at some point, says Dr. Martinez. Here are some things that kids and teens can do to treat acne:
- Look for acne-clearing products: Many products are available at drugstores to help clear up acne. Look for products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that can lead to acne and it also can reduce the swelling of pimples. Salicylic acid dries skin, which can help get rid of pimples.
- Follow the products direction carefully: Though it might be tempting to slather on a cream and reapply frequently, this can irritate and dry the skin. Its best to try a little bit first to test for sensitivity, and then be consistent with use.
- Dont give up: Remember that these products can take some time to work. Encourage your teen to keep at it.
Heres what not to do in hopes of clearing up acne, says Dr. Martinez:
- Dont touch, squeeze or pick at pimples: Though tempting, these measures can make acne worse by causing more inflammation. Picking at pimples can also lead to scarring.
- Dont sunbathe: It is a myth that sitting in the sun can help acne. Though a tan might make pimples look less severe, the sun wont clear up acne. Worse, too much sun is dangerous and can lead to sunburn and skin cancer.
Acne Isnt Caused By Bad Hygiene
Acne isnt caused by bad hygiene. Having spots, blackheads or pimples isnt a sign that your skin is dirty or that youre not washing properly. Acne can, however, be linked to certain kinds of skincare products. If you are suffering with acne, you should avoid oily skincare products and cosmetics. Ask your dermatologist for advice or look for the term non-comedogenic on the labels.
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Topical And Oral Antibiotics
Antibiotics can sometimes be helpful in occasional doses to help get rid of inflammatory acne thats caused by the P. acnes bacterium. These can come in topical creams or gels that you apply for a certain number of days, as well as oral antibiotics.
Its important not to overuse oral antibiotics, or else your body can build up a resistance to them. See your dermatologist for advice on whether your current breakout warrants antibiotic treatment.
Cerave Pm Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Best for Restoring Moisture to The Skin
While it is tempting to skip out on a moisturizer when you have acne-prone and oily skin, this step is critical to restore moisture lost from using potentially drying products. This non-comedogenic face moisturizer is oil-free, non-comedogenic and lightweight. It is formulated with niacinamide, which calms the skin, as well as ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which lock in hydration. The moisturizer is marketed towards nighttime use, but it can be used day and night.
How to Use: After cleansing and applying any acne treatments, dispense a pump into your fingers. Gently massage the product into your skin. Use twice a day.
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Exfoliate With Salicylic Acid
If you have acne, you need salicylic acid. Not glycolic acid. Not lactic acid. Not scrubs, Clarisonic, or whatever. Salicylic acid. Only salicylic acid.
Why? Salicylic acid is the only exfoliant that can effectively treat whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. It does this by targeting three different causes of acne:
- Unclogs pores: Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it penetrates through your natural oil-based protective barrier and deep into the pores, unclogging them from within. Clean pores = no breakouts.
- Exfoliates: Salicylic acid exfoliates the surface of your skin, making it smoother and brighter. Plus, if dead cells are off your skin, they cant fall into your pores and clog them up.
- Soothes: Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the redness and inflammation that always comes along with pimples.
Dont be tempted by glycolic acid & co. They only exfoliate skin, but dont have the extra benefits Salicylic acid has.
HOW TO USE IT: Be careful here. Most salicylic acid exfoliants say you can exfoliate every day, if not twice a day. Thats way too much! Over-exfoliation can cause dryness. You dont want to swap one problem for another. Instead, use it every other night, right after cleansing.
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Speaking With Teens About Acne
Parents should approach the sensitive topic of acne with an open mind and no judgment. Acne comes at one of the most inopportune moments in a persons life. Parents can reassure teens with acne that the condition is treatable. Establishing a line of communication can be the first step to creating an effective skincare routine.
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