Acne affects many thousands of teenagers, starting when puberty is reached. Acne can be relatively mild, with occasional zits and blemishes, or it can be quite extreme, covering the entire face with eruptions.

Acne can also appear on your teen’s back, chest and other areas - not only on their face. Acne can not only can result in physical scarring, it can emotionally scar a teenager as well. Puberty brings hormonal changes and fragile emotions, and acne can wreak havoc with a teenager’s self-esteem. Teasing and name-calling can hurt as deeply as a physical wound, embarrassing and humiliating a teen leaving long-lasting effects.

For mild cases of acne, regular cleansing with antibacterial cleansers, using a balancing facial toner and oil-free moisturizers can help impede eruptions. There are hundreds of products available over the counter for treating mild acne issues. Make sure your teenager sticks to a daily skin care regimen, as this will help to shorten the length of outbreaks and prevent future eruptions. Parents should remind their teenagers that a healthy diet and daily skin care will not only help win their battle with acne, but also be a part of a healthy lifestyle that will shape their body into maturity.

For severe, persistent cases of acne, intervention is required. The facial dermis can be permanently scarred from the ever-present pustules, zits and blemishes that cover the face in extreme cases of acne. Parents of a teen with such severe acne should seek professional assistance from a dermatologist. These doctors will have an array of treatments and medications that can help reduce the acne eruptions and prevent scarring, as they specialize in the treatment of skin problems and diseases.  A dermatologist may find other reasons for the acne problem. Eczema can contribute to acne breakouts, and often treating those underlying issues can help to reduce the severity of the acne. If you are not seeing a visible improvement from the use of over the counter products, make an appointment with a dermatologist.

It is important that your teenager is reassured that their value has not changed because of their acne. As parents, you need to boost their confidence and let them know that you love and accept them, whether their acne is mild or severe. Support your child with help controlling their acne. Buy the products they need to establish a good skin care routine, prepare healthy meals and provide nutritious snacks. If all else fails, get in touch with a dermatologist.

As a parent, you play an important role in helping your child through the turbulent teenage years. Assisting them with their battle against facial acne will strengthen your bond.

 

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