How to treat your teenager’s acne
There’s no other way to put it. Acne stinks! Whether you’re a tween, a teen or an adult (hello, middle aged hormones!), it is a disheartening cosmetic condition that can really affect self-esteem. While there are many treatments that can really improve facial acne, it is important to know that it is rarely one size fits all. Most treatments take time, dedication, and commitment. Most people also have to try different regimens and see what works best for them. Occasionally, teenagers will have to resort to their pediatrician or a dermatologist and require prescription medications (topical or oral) to treat their acne too!
But if your teenager recently started struggling with acne, keep in mind that often times, acne treatment requires a consistent skin care routine which is why it’s so hard for adults, let alone impatient teenagers! It’s not unusual for a teen to give up after a week or two and lose hope. That simply isn’t long enough. Most skin care regimens take at least 4-6 weeks to show some mild improvement.
Here is our first line approach to teenagers who have started to struggle with acne:
Reduce junk food and sugar and try to improve your diet overall. Some studies have linked cow’s milk and dairy to acne , so consider whether this dietary change is right for you.
Hydrate well with water and limit sugary beverages such as soda, juice and sweet tea.
Take a daily multi-vitamin
Be careful to use non pore-clogging shampoos! Many hair products contribute to forehead or back acne.
Then, try to start with the following skin care regimen (which works best if done morning and night):
Cerave acne foaming cleanser
Use a toner to balance skin ph
Use benzoyl peroxide (start with 5% and if it doesn’t work , try to increase to 10% concentration)
Finish off with a non pore-clogging moisturizer (preferably with SPF). An example would be Neutrogena oil-free moisture broard spectrum SPF35.
Try this regimen for at least 4-6 weeks before moving onto another option. We have also seen success with over the counter differin gel, or proactiv skin care solutions and even with curology, which is a curated acne regimen. No matter what, don’t lose hope! The skin care industry has made huge strides in the last decade and products have become much more affordable lately. When all else fails, talk to your doctor about what other options may be available to you.
Your PediPals