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Achieve Clear Skin During Puberty

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Why are teenagers most prone to acne?

Adolescence is the period of puberty, a result of significant hormonal changes taking place during that time that results in increased sebum (oil) production, particularly on the face and upper body. This increased sebum, mixed with dead skin and bacteria, results in clogged pores and the skin’s inflammatory response in the form of acne.

Types of acne common during the teenage years

Whiteheads – These refer to small white dots caused by clogged follicles under the skin.
Blackheads – These are black bumps that occur when a combination of sebum and dead skin cells clog the pores.
Pimples – These are characterized by red, painful and swollen spots on the skin. Sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria contribute to the development of a pimple.
Pustules – These are marked by red bumps with yellow or white pus on top. A breakdown of the walls around the pores will cause a pustule.
Cysts – These are the most severe type of acne. They are deep situated pus-filled spots that appear to be a large red or white bump. This can be painful when touched.

Treatment Options for Acne

Acne skin care treatments can help to control the acne and avoid scarring. These include:

Lifestyle & Dietary Changes – Your skin specialist may ask you to avoid certain foods, stay well-hydrated and adopt a generally healthy lifestyle with sufficient rest. Be sure to keep your face clean by cleansing it well, followed by a personalized skincare routine.
Topical Creams & Medications – Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic, anti-inflammatory or steroid-based creams and medicines.
Therapies – Apart from the above, there are other treatments available for the removal of acne spots, which range from chemical peels and microdermabrasion to Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser therapies.

Treatment Options for Acne Scars

After your acne has been successfully brought under control, you may now have to manage the acne scars left behind.

Depending on the type and severity of scarring, your doctor will customize a treatment plan for you. This may come in the form of lightening the acne scar, filling up depressed scars, stimulating collagen production for the growth of new healthy skin, cortisone injections to soften scars, light and laser treatments, and much more.