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Adeyomola

Written By Adeyomola

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10 Best Acne Treatments for Teens

The surge in hormone production during puberty often leads to an increase in oil production, which, combined with dead skin cells and bacteria, can result in acne breakouts. This article discusses 10 ways to treat acne, including over-the-counter treatments, prescription medications, and so on.

1. Over-the-Counter Treatments

One of the simplest ways to start your acne journey is by checking out over the counter (OTC) products. There are some great options available that don’t require a prescription:
  • Benzoyl Peroxide: This is a superstar ingredient that helps kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce oiliness. You can find it in creams, gels, and cleansers.
  • Salicylic Acid: Great for unclogging pores, salicylic acid can help exfoliate your skin and fight inflammation.
  • AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): These acids help get rid of dead skin cells, revealing the fresh, new skin underneath.
Remember to start slowly as your skin might need some time to adjust.

2. Prescription Medications

If your acne is moderate or severe and OTC treatments aren’t cutting it, reach out to a dermatologist for further assessments and a prescription. A dermatologist can provide personalized plans, which can include:
  • Topical Retinoids: These creams help speed up cell turnover and keep pores clear, treating acne and acne scars.
  • Oral Antibiotics: If your acne is particularly stubborn, prescription antibiotics can help reduce bacteria and inflammation. Typically, you’ll only get a prescription for a limited period.
  • Hormonal Treatments: Girls might find that hormonal treatments, like birth control pills, can help even out those pesky hormone fluctuations.
It is essential to follow a dermatologist’s advice when utilizing prescription medications, as misuse can lead to side effects.

3. Consistent Skincare Routine

A daily skincare routine tailored to oily and acne-prone skin can significantly enhance the effectiveness of other treatments. Here are some key steps:
  • Gentle Cleansing: Wash your face twice a day using a mild cleanser made for acne-prone skin. Avoid harsh ingredients that could irritate your skin.
  • Moisturizing: Contrary to the belief that oily skin doesn’t need moisture, using a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer can be beneficial. For one, hydrated skin is less likely to overproduce oil.
  • Spot Treatments: For those occasional breakouts, spot treatments can be super helpful. Just apply a little benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid on the blemish directly.

4. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Dieting and lifestyle play a significant role in skin health. While individual responses to food can vary, certain dietary adjustments may help reduce acne:
  • Reduce Dairy Intake: Dairy can trigger breakouts in some people, so you might want to try limiting it and see if it helps.
  • Cut Back on Sugary Foods: Reducing refined sugar and processed foods can help keep breakouts away. Incorporating whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can encourage clearer skin.
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water as it keeps your skin hydrated and supports your overall health.
  • Regular Exercise: Regular exercise can boost circulation and your mood, both of which are great for your skin.

5. Use Sun Protection

The sun can worsen acne scarring and certain medications can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so protecting the skin from sun exposure is vital. Here’s how to protect your skin from the sun:
  • Use Non-Comedogenic Sunscreen: Look for an oil-free sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for daily protection.
  • Wear Protective Gear: Hats or sunglasses are great for extra shielding when you’re outdoors.

6. Professional Treatments

For moderate to severe acne cases, professional treatments can offer more immediate results. These professional treatments include:
  • Chemical Peels: A dermatologist applies a special solution that helps exfoliate your skin, reducing acne effectively.
  • Extractions: This is when a professional gently removes whiteheads and blackheads, giving you some instant relief.
  • Laser Therapy: Different laser options can be used to target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Always consult a dermatologist to figure out which of these suits your skin.

7. Natural Remedies

In addition to typical treatments, some natural remedies may offer relief for mild acne. While not a substitute for medical treatments, these may complement a skincare routine:
  • Tea Tree Oil: With its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can be applied topically to reduce inflammation and bacteria in acne-prone skin.
  • Honey and Cinnamon Mask: Both honey and cinnamon possess antimicrobial properties. Mixing them to create a mask can soothe inflamed skin.
  • Green Tea: Drinking green tea or using it topically may help reduce inflammation due to its antioxidant properties.
When using any of these, test a small area of your skin first (a patch test) to avoid adverse reactions.

8. Stress Management

Teen years can be stressful, and stress has been linked to increased acne intensity. To curb the effects of stress on acne, developing healthy coping mechanisms is essential:
  • Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation or yoga can do wonders for your mind and skin.
  • Prioritize Sleep: Regular sleep schedules can help you feel energized and less stressed.
  • Pursue Hobbies: Engage in activities you love to take your mind off stressful events and thoughts.

9. Avoid Picking and Squeezing

One of the worst habits for acne-prone skin is touching, picking, or squeezing pimples. These habits can introduce bacteria and lead to scarring and worsened inflammation. Here’s how to curb these behaviors:
  • Keep Hands Clean: Regularly washing hands can reduce the transfer of bacteria to the face.
  • Fidget Solutions: For those who tend to pick at their skin, finding alternative fidget solutions, like stress balls, can help divert attention.
  • Mindfulness Practices: Being aware of the urge to pick can help in recognizing and stopping the habit.

10. Education and Support

Understanding acne and its treatment options can help you manage your skin effectively. So, engage with supportive communities, whether through social media or school health resources, to learn from shared experiences and get some encouragement.

Final Thoughts

Acne can be tough, but with a bit of patience and the right approach, you can find the solutions that work for you. That said, what works for one person may not work for another, so don’t be discouraged while on the journey.