Teen Acne Can Be Controlled

Getting treatment early is the key to preventing permanent, potentially disfiguring, scarring

My 13-year-old son has mild to moderate acne. What are some things he can do to prevent his acne from getting worse? Is simply washing his face enough?

For mild acne, using an over-the-counter acne product containing benzoyl peroxide, sodium sulfacetamide, salicylic acid, sulfur or resorcinol is a good place to start..

These ingredients come in leave-on creams or in acne cleansers that are washed off the skin. They may be used either once a day or in the morning and at night. Consistency is the key to success.

Acne is a common skin disease that causes pimples. Pimples form when hair follicles under your skin clog up.Most pimples form on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders. Anyone can get acne, but it is common in teenagers and young adults.

Treatment recommendations start with avoiding abrasive acne products that can harm your teen’s skin. Don’t scrub the skin. Try not to pick at the acne spots as this can make the acne look worse and lead to scarring.

Although there is no scientific evidence that any foods contribute to acne, teens are advised to eat a healthier diet with less fat and sugar and more fruits and vegetables.

If the acne has not significantly improved after two months of consistent use of an over-the-counter acne medication, it may be necessary to see a dermatologist.

Scarring is permanent and can be disfiguring. Most acne scars can be avoided if acne is treated early.