Teen Acne

Teen acne is a common problem which can have far reaching psychosocial impact during adolescence.

Studies reveal that almost 75% of adolescents are affected by teen acne. Outbreak of teen acne can cause intense emotional upsets in the affected. When the teens get their first outbreak of acne lesions, they become embarassed and start avoiding social interactions. If not dealt with properly, this can make them introverts and have telling effects on their personality and behavior.

Actually teen acne is a misnomer, acne vulgaris or common facial acne being a disease of teens. This is, understandably, due to the hormonal activity during the period. It has been calculated that an average teenager produce 5 times more sebum than a normal adult.

Acne occurs when the hair follicles are blocked due to the combined action of increased sebum secretion, dead epidermal and hair follicle cells and inflammation caused by bacterial growth.

Important points to remember in Teen Acne:

• Teen acne can be complicated by scarring caused by constant picking on the lesions. I always tell my patients that they are providing nourishment to their acne by touching them! So if you want the acne to go away, apply medicines and forget about it!
• Never apply any medication on your acne lesions without consulting your dermatologist.
• Avoid OTC products if you do not want to damage your skin with wrong applications.
• Take care of your food habits. See the acne diet recommendations.
  
  
  
   

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