8 of 15

Write now Article Tools

Scars left from acne are not always physical. In fact, the emotional scars can run much deeper. Although acne can be a problems at any age, it is particularly damaging during the teenage years. Teens are already struggling to develop their self esteem and gain acceptance. Acne makes this even harder.
There is an element of shame, embarrassment and guilt associated with having bad acne. This is why a combination of skin treatment, education and emotional healing must occur in unison. First, clear up any myths that may be making your teen feel guilty. They are NOT broken out because they ate chocolate or greasy foods; that is a myth. They are NOT broken out because they did not wash their face enough, because over-washing can actually cause more acne. The truth is that it is not their fault. Of course there are things your teen must do to help control their break-outs, but their acne probably is caused by hormonal imbalances or hereditary factors.

There are some easy tactics your teen can use to help control their breakouts. Simple things like always buying make-up, lotion and sunscreen that is non-comedogenic is very important. Simply buying products that are oil-free is not enough.(I have found Physicians Formula make-up and Almay or Neutregina products, which are all non-comedogenic, to be quite effective.) While foods do not cause breakouts, your teen should pay attention to whether a particular food causes them to break out and avoid that food. Being aware of putting dirty things on their face, like the phone or their hands, (people often lean on our hands without realizing it)is another simple way to avoid break-outs. This includes putting their hands on their face to pop pimples. Popping is a big no-no! Your teen needs to be aware of where hair touches their face and the types of hair products they are using. Oily hair touching the skin can also cause breakouts. Of course keeping up with a skin routine by washing their face twice a day and using some form of acne treatment each day is imperative.
If your teen has tried everything available over the counter, has followed these other steps and is still having problems, it is time to go and see a dermatologist. The dermatologist will most likely prescribe an oral medication or a topical cream, like Retinay micro. (Make sure your teen is extra careful in the sun because most topical products make their skin more susceptible to burn.) In the most severe cases an oral medication called Accutane can be prescribed, but this is a very intense medication with the potential for serious side effects.
Proactiv Solution, which can be ordered from the television or on-line, has worked miracles for some people. Proactiv also has an extra strength formula for more severe cases, which very few people know. Lastly, there are effective combinations of natural supplements and vitamins that can clear up acne. Take your teen to a health store and let the employees help you put together a proper regimen.
The truth is there is not a cure for acne. It is a problem which your teen must work on and maintain. Sometimes your teen can do everything right, and still struggle with bad acne. Unfortunately, they may just need to grow out of it. Be sure to give a lot of positive reinforcement to your teen and build their self esteem by focusing on elements of their life that have noting to do with the way they look. Provide them with all the physical resources necessary to fix the problem and remind them that you will work hard to find a solution together.In the worst cases, when a teen does suffer, try and look on the bright side and recognize that they are building character and becoming a more compassionate individual.

Learn more about this author, RENYE'.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Tips on treating teen acne?
We want to hear your view. Write now!