Acne is a common skin problem that usually begins in the young teenage years and can last until the early 20s or even later. It consists of mild to severe outbreaks of pimples, mainly on the face, but also on the back, shoulders, arms and chest.
Some people develop a severe form of acne that can cause cysts and scars unless it is treated medically. Today, medical treatments are available for teenagers that can prevent bad acne, with its resulting scarred and damaged skin.
Teenagers on the whole are overly concerned about how they look and what other people are saying about them. They can find pimples and acne extremely distressing, so try to help them develop a balanced lifestyle of diet and exercise that will make them feel better about themselves generally and better able to deal with their pimples.
Try to encourage them not to squeeze pimples, since this can spread germs more deeply into the skin, delaying healing. Squeezing can also lead to permanent scarring.
Take your teenager's concerns seriously and get advice from your doctor about the best way to approach any skin problems they have.
Debunking the myths about acne
Teenagers, like everyone, can pick up wrong information very easily. Here are some facts about acne:
- Acne has nothing to do with cleanliness, personal hygiene or diet (although these are important healthy lifestyle goals).
- It is seldom made worse by food such as chocolate or junk food. Some teens, however, may react to chocolate or fatty foods.
- It is not infectious.
- There is no need to scrub your face frequently — vigorous washing will not clean away oils that produce pimples. Normal twice-daily washing, with a soap substitute (not an antiseptic) is sufficient.
- A balanced, healthy diet will help you feel better generally. Scientists now think that pimples are linked to a high glycaemic index diet, combined with a high intake of refined carbohydrates (sugars, white flour).
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